Kali Reis: Champion Fighter, Trailblazing Actress, and Powerful Native Voice

Kali Reis, a trailblazing professional boxer and actress, has significantly influenced the representation of Native American culture in mainstream media. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Reis proudly embraces her heritage, encompassing Seaconke Wampanoag, Nipmuc, Cherokee, and Cape Verdean roots.

Regarding her Indigenous roots, Reis holds great pride in her cultural ties and is a member of the Seaconke Wampanoag tribe. Additionally, she incorporated the name Mequinonoag, given to her by her mother, which she translates as “many feathers” or “many talents”, into her boxing nickname, “K.O. Mequinonoag.”

As evidenced by her colorful career, it seems Reis’s mom was right in saying she has many talents. Not only has Reis had a successful boxing career, but she was also able to transition into professional acting roles quite seamlessly. Still, even as she took on acting roles Reis never forgot her roots.

Reis’s advocacy for Indigenous issues is evident in her multifaceted career. In 2021, she co-wrote and starred in “Catch the Fair One,” a film addressing the pressing issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). Her compelling performance garnered critical acclaim, earning her a nomination for Best Female Lead at the 37th Independent Spirit Awards.

Transitioning to television, Reis co-starred alongside Jodie Foster in “True Detective: Night Country,” the fourth season of HBO’s anthology crime series. Portraying Trooper Evangeline Navarro, an Iñupiat and Dominican state trooper, Reis’s authentic representation earned her a historic Primetime Emmy nomination in 2024, making her one of the first Native American women to receive this honor.

Beyond her on-screen achievements, Reis remains a dedicated advocate for Indigenous communities. She actively supports initiatives addressing the MMIWG crisis and uses her platform to raise awareness about Native American issues. Her commitment to her heritage and community continues to inspire and pave the way for more inclusive representation in media.