The Kawaiisu, also known as the Nuwa, are a Native American people group who reside in the southern California Tehachapi Valley and across the Tehachapi Pass in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains to the north, toward Lake Isabella and Walker Pass. Some Kawaiisu reside on the Tejon Indian Reservation located in Kern County, California. The tribal website claims a total membership of 250.

Historically, they were a peaceful, gentle people with a great respect for their surroundings, living and working in small family units. They are noted for their very finely woven baskets of intricate and colorful design. Girls learned how to gather and prepare materials for the baskets. Boys learned the art of making cordage and creating rabbit skin blankets.

Since 2002 with very elders still speaking the language, they "have been teaching and documenting our language and culture."

For more information, see the Kawaiisu Tribe website.