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Impact

Quannah Chasinghorse Is Changing the Face of Fashion

Photo by Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

25 Jul '25
By The Shift
25 Jul '25
By The Shift

The Shift highlights women’s stories through the lens of impact. It hopes to contextualize history and inspire action.

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Quannah Chasinghorse is a Hän Gwich’in and Oglala/Sicangu Lakota land protector and fashion model. She gained prominence through a 2020 Calvin Klein campaign and has since appeared on covers of Vogue, Elle, Allure, National Geographic and many others. Quannah advocates for Indigenous rights and environmental and climate justice.

The Shift:

What is one defining moment in your career or life that empowered you to create change, and how has it shaped the path you’re on today?

Quannah:

When I was 13, with the support of a well respected elder/chief from my community, Steve Ginnis, I was able to change Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples day in our school district. Seeing the impact I could make by using my voice and being raised by outspoken, strong and smart women, I realized I had a calling. Asking questions, staying informed, showing up, and raising your voice was modeled to me by my mom and my aunties, I know watching them take up space and being change makers is what shaped me into who I am today.

The Shift:

As we look to the future, what is one key change or innovation you believe is essential for advancing equality and empowerment in your field?

Quannah:

Seeing more diverse body types and sizes on  and off the runway, more Native American models, as well as more encouragement and focus on sustainability.

The Shift:

What is the legacy you hope to leave behind as a changemaker and leader in your industry?

Quannah:

I hope to leave a legacy of love, empowerment and inspiration for the future generations to come. I want people to see that my success is a testament to true love, manifestations, values, teachings, wisdom and the community that raised me to be resilient, strong and humble. The foundation of who we are is rooted in the deep love we have for our people, land, waters and culture. I lead my life with these very values, and I carry my community with me on every journey I take.

The Shift:

What does progress for women look like in your field, and what steps do you believe are necessary to keep that momentum going?

Quannah:

Progress for women in my field is being able to exist without continuous misogyny and the (performative) inclusivity they preach but can’t seem uphold. I’d love to see “representation” be less tokenized and more normal. But for Indigenous women, I’d love our voices and stories be heard, to be included at whatever table they choose to sit at. The lack of inclusion of Indigenous women is not surprising but always disappointing, I’m excited to see more and more of our people not only be included but also for us to lead in many conversations that directly affect our communities.

As a community, we see success in uplifting one another and making space for all our people to thrive and share stories. It takes all of us, together, to really create change.

The Shift:

Who are three women who inspire you?

Quannah:

Her Mom and Grandma

Acosia RedElk 

Princess Daazhraii Johnson

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Quannah Chasinghorse is honored as part of The Shift’s “90 Plus One” list, which recognizes influential women shaping contemporary culture. With Gloria Steinem featured on the inaugural print cover, the list pays homage to her 91 years of activism by highlighting a powerhouse community of women shifting culture.