From Humble Beginnings To Historic Success

Peggy Flanagan: A Native American Activist and the Highest-Ranking Indigenous Woman in Statewide Elected Office

From Humble Beginnings to Historic Success

About Peggy Flanagan

Peggy Flanagan, born on September 22, 1979, is an American politician, community organizer, and Native American activist. She holds the distinction of being the 50th Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota, making her the highest-ranking Indigenous woman serving in a statewide elected office in the United States.

Despite her current prominence, Flanagan's path to politics was not initially clear. Her high school GPA of 1.75 belied the determination and resilience that would propel her to success. She went on to earn her bachelor's degree in American Indian studies from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and dedicated her career to advocating for the rights and well-being of Native American communities.

In 2018, Flanagan made history by being elected as Minnesota's 50th Lieutenant Governor. As a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, she became the highest-ranking Native American elected official in the country. Her election was a testament to her tireless efforts to uplift and empower marginalized communities, and it marked a significant milestone in the representation of Indigenous women in American politics.