Episode 18: Kali Reis

Not Invisible: Native Peoples on the Frontlines

On this episode of Not Invisible: Native Peoples on the Frontlines we interview Professional Boxer and Actress, Kali Reis.

Kali “KO” Mequinonoag Reis (35) hails from East Providence RI, is a member of the Seaconke Wampanoag Tribe & is the first Indigenous Woman fighter to become a World Champion. As a Professional Boxer, Reis has attained 6 World Titles in 2 weight classes & is currently the WBA IBO & WBO Super Lightweight World Champion and is on the “Road to Undisputed”. Kali made history when she participated in HBOs’ first ever Women’s televised in 2018. She uses her boxing platform to spread awareness on various issues such as the MMIW (Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women).

Living up to her given name Mequinonoag [Many Feathers/Many Talents], Kali is a certified Motorcycle/Small Engines Technician and has worked as a Residential Counselor since 2009. She has found healing in sharing her story & mentoring troubled youth with a relatable approach, as well as traveling to speak with and support various communities in hopes of being a positive example to “Never throw in the towel no matter what punches life throws at you”.

In 2021, Kali made her acting debut with the lead role in the film ‘Catch the Fair One', in which she also received a writer’s credit. This film highlights the MMIW epidemic & earned a Special Jury Mention award at the Tribeca film festival. Recently, an Indie Film Spirit Award nominee for Best Female Lead Actress was announced for Reis’ performance.

This mixed Cape Verdean/Native American has a “Voice for the Voiceless”.
Follow Kali on Instagram and Twitter
This episode of Not Invisible: Native Peoples on the Frontlines was produced by Viktor Maco, Spirit Buffalo and J.B. Hart. Edited by Abbey Franz. Research by Sarah Rose Harper.
Hosted by LeAndra Nephin.
This season of Not Invisible: Native Peoples on the Frontlines is produced with support from Earth Rising Foundation, our Patreon producers, Reena Krishnan, Kathy Duerr, Brenda George and Ervin Green .
Additional support from our patrons at Patreon and Buy Me a Coffee.
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