Winona LaDuke is a prominent American environmentalist, writer, and industrial hemp grower, recognized for her unwavering commitment to Indigenous rights and sustainable development. After graduating from Harvard University in 1982 with a degree in rural economic development, LaDuke returned to her roots at the White Earth Ojibwe Reservation in Minnesota, where she served as the principal of the local high school. Her early involvement in land recovery efforts for the Anishinaabe people laid the groundwork for her future advocacy work, including the founding of the Indigenous Women’s Network in 1985, which empowered Native women in tribal politics and culture.

In 1989, LaDuke established the White Earth Land Recovery Project (WELRP), utilizing funds from a human rights award to buy back land lost to non-Native ownership. Under her leadership, WELRP has successfully reclaimed over 1,200 acres and initiated various sustainable development projects, including renewable energy initiatives and traditional food systems. LaDuke’s efforts have not only revitalized the local economy but also fostered a deeper connection to Indigenous cultural practices and environmental stewardship.

LaDuke’s political career includes running as the vice-presidential candidate for the Green Party alongside Ralph Nader in 1996 and 2000, making history as the first Native American woman to receive an Electoral College vote in 2016. Her advocacy has extended to national issues, notably her active participation in the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, where she raised awareness about the environmental impacts on Indigenous lands.

As of 2023, LaDuke continues to champion Indigenous rights through her work at Winona’s Hemp & Heritage Farm, promoting sustainable agriculture and the economic potential of industrial hemp. Her contributions to environmental justice and Indigenous sovereignty have earned her numerous accolades, solidifying her legacy as a leader in the fight for a sustainable future for Native communities.