The short answer: yes!
Historically, racism has limited the number of Indigenous ancestors documented by lineage societies. That is beginning to change. The Daughters of the American Revolution has made a concerted effort to document new patriots of all backgrounds. The society now offers a “Patriots of Color” database that provides resources to identify service for ancestors of a number of backgrounds. Don’t forget to check their GRS database as well: there’s a chance someone has already used your line to apply. The National Society Colonial Dames of America has also added Indigenous ancestors to their qualifying list. For example, Rev. Samson Occom, a member of the Mohegan tribe, is considered a qualifying ancestor from Connecticut.
Is your ancestor not listed? Don’t forget that they can be added! You’ll help expand the records of the society and assist further researchers. If you have questions about how to document a new ancestor, please feel free to contact us.