According to the U.S. Census Bureau, just 2.9% of the U.S. population identifies as American Indian or Alaska Native, either alone or in combination with another race. Within that small percentage, those identifying as 2SLGBTQ+ make up an even smaller population. For many queer Native people, especially those living on reservations and rural areas, access to Pride celebrations can be limited, and there may be few other queer Native people nearby.
For American Indian College Fund scholar Eunice (Cheyenne River Sioux), she/they, this reality makes visibility and celebration even more important. While working toward their master’s degree in Lakota Leadership and Management at her tribal college, Oglala Lakota College (OLC), Eunice embodies leadership in every aspect of their life.
As a Lakota community member, queer person, and 2024-25 Miss He Sapa Win, embracing their queer identity has shaped the way they show up in the world. Grounded in a deep sense of belonging, Eunice is committed to ensuring everyone, no matter how they identify, feels that warm handshake of care and connection in every space.
It’s not uncommon for 2SLGBTQ+ Natives to carry the extra weight of having to navigate systems and spaces that have been instilled with bigotry, stereotypes, and ignorance. With more inclusive representation, 2SLGBTQ+ people can see themselves and their identities reflected in ways that are empowering rather than isolating and burdensome.
Creating safe and affirming spaces for all takes help from everyone. Eunice shares that their professors at OLC ensure not only that everyone’s pronouns are known, but that they also are used and respected across the entire college and tribal community.
As the first historically openly queer royalty, Eunice used her reign as Miss He Sapa Win as an opportunity to show up authentically and to be true to who they are. “I am non-binary and wasn’t afraid to introduce myself to fellow princesses, dignitaries, and dancers as such,” says Eunice. “It has made me feel so proud of our 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in how they welcomed me and that we know there are no boundaries to what you can accomplish.”
Eunice is leading by example, using her education and personal experiences to be the representation we all deserve to see: one that uplifts the diverseness in our identities and holds space for us to be the best, most true version of ourselves.
