Model Moment
Daunnette Reyome & Catching Up with
Chef Shane Chartrand
PLUS
#Native Biz Gift Guide Year in Review: Most Memorable Moments in Fashion & Film this Year
I Am Anishinaabe Meet the Beautiful & Talented Ojibwe Women Behind Indian Country’s Most Sought After Fashion Brand
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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 1
2 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
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Contents December/January 2018
Welcome to the Issue 004
MASTHEAD who’s all on our team
004
EDITOR’S WELCOME welcome to the issue full of inspiration
The Edge
022
007
FROM MOCCS TO MUKS we share our fave moccasins and mukluks
009
STYLE PROFILE: TIMOTEO IKOSHY MONTOYA we meet Ikoshy, a multi-talented artist
010
YEAR IN REVIEW: FASHION we share the most memorable moments in fashion for 2017
011
THE WEEKENDER Diné bloggers show us how to spend our weekends in style
The Insider 015
Q&A WITH CHEF SHANE CHARTRAND we catch up with this award-winning chef
017
NEWS FROM INDIAN COUNTRY check out news stories from around Indian Country
018
#NATIVEBIZ GIFT GUIDE our handy guide to shopping small Native businesses this holiday
021
THE MAKINGS OF A DINÉ SAILOR meet Operations Specialist 1st Class Denise Alamo, a proud Diné woman and U.S. Navy Sailor
Features
029
022
I AM ANISHINAABE meet the talented Ojibwe women behind I Am Anishinaabe
029
MODEL MOMENT: DAUNNETTE REYOME we talk to model Daunnette Reyome, who is using her platform to amplify her voice
On Radar
015
033
YEAR IN REVIEW: ENTERTAINMENT so much has happened in film and TV this year! here are our favorite moments of 2017
035
ENTERTAINMENT NEWS a round up of news stories you need to know right now
Editor's Welcome
KELLY HOLMES Founder + Editor-in-Chief @kellycamilleholmes Executive Assistant Tatiana Ybarra EDITORIAL Managing Editor Jacqueline Lina Brixey Staff Writer Rhonda “Tree” Mangan Staff Writer Darren Thompson Staff Writer Johnnie Morris Staff Writer Kelly Bedoni CREATIVE Creative Director E-’cho Martin Director of Photography Zoe Friday Videographer Joey Little Bird Web Director Celeste Terry
Resilience, Inspiration & Wishes What an issue it has been! First of all, there was so much I wanted to feature in this issue. Unfortunately, due to time and space constraints, there was a lot we had to postpone until the next issue. Next, right as the magazine was almost complete, sickness ravaged my household. After dealing with frustrating technical difficulties, I plowed through and finished the issue. This drawback proves just how resilient I have to be. Since I have my hands on each issue start to finish, from compiling stories and interviewing subjects to writing and designing, I’m typically the person who completes the magazine. As much as I wish I had a bigger team to pick up where I leave off, I know I have to just deal with whatever is in front of me, especially when I listen to the stories of the people we’re featuring. But the buzz for this issue kept me optimistic, as it’s already gaining ground on both social media and the web. Since I released the teaser cover announcing the issue release, the appreciation, love, and support that Delina White, Lavender Hunt, Sage Davis and Snowy White have around Indian Country is fantastic. Seeing all of the positive feedback makes me glow. This love and support are why I love doing the
MARKETING + SALES Sales Manager Donna Johnson Financial Officer Veronica Lane
magazine. I like to look at everyone become inspired when they see and read the latest issue. Speaking of becoming inspired, that’s how I felt when I interviewed award-winning First Nations chef Shane Chartrand. At first, all I knew of him was that he was on Chopped: Canada and that he was the Executive Chef at Sage Restaurant at River Cree Resort & Casino near Edmonton, Alberta. It wasn’t until I researched more about him that made his story more interesting. During our interview, I learned about his upbringing, humble beginnings and jump start on his culinary journey. At only 40 years of age, Shane has accomplished so much. It was inspiring to sit and listen to Shane’s story, as he didn’t let any challenges or circumstances deter him from his dream of becoming a chef. When going through the issue, I hope you read our last page, “Until Next Time.” The last page is a place where we share messages of inspiration with our readers. In this issue, with the help of our illustrator and contributor Crystal Szczepanski, we wanted to remind our readers to have a blessed new year. We hope you enjoy the issue! We’ll see you next year!
Copyright Native Max & Other Media Ventures All rights reserved. All material in Native Max Magazine is wholly copyright and reproduction without the the written permission of the Publisher is strictly forbidden. Neither this publication nor its contents constitute an explicit endorsement by Native Max of the products or services mentioned in advertising or editorial content. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Native Max shall not have any liability for errors or omissions. We've done our best to acknowledge all photographers. In some instances photos have been provided to us by those who appear editorially and we have their permission in each case to use the images. We apologize if anything appears incorrectly. It will be a genuine mistake. Please let us know and we can give you a mention in the next issue.
Kelly Holmes Founder + Editor-in-Chief
@kellycamilleholmes
4 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
@kellycamilleholmes
@kellzholmes
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The Edge PLUS: STYLE PROFILE: TIMOTEO IKOSHY MONTOYA YEAR IN REVIEW: FASHION THE WEEKENDER
Moccasins by LL Designs: LL Designs moccasins are 100% handmade to order with patience and love, and are probably the most comfiest boots you'll ever wear. Each moccasin is lined with a pillowy insole and supple deerskin for added comfort (which means they’re best worn barefoot!).
Louis Artisan Boot, sizes 5-9, $270-$299.99, lldesignsstore.com
From Moccs to Muks Take a break from the norm and invest in these soft, versatile and weather-resistant moccasins and mukluks.
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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 7
The Edge
Moccasins by Beki Elk: Rebekah Elk, Ojibwe from Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, is an artist and co-owner of social enterprise clothing line AKA Cruz Andina who creates beaded moccasins. Although there’s not a selection to shop from, Rebekah makes them by hand in 3 weeks after the order is placed. She lets her customers pick the leather color along with the color scheme of the beads.
Mukluks by Manitobah Mukluks: Manitobah Mukluks is an Indigenous-owned manufacture based in Canada. They make a variety of products such as mukluks, moccasins, gloves and more at their production facility in Winnipeg, Manitobah. Wool lace up mukluk; Manitobah Mukluks, $219.99, manitobahmukluks.com
8 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
MOCCASINS: COURTESY/BRAND; MUKLUKS: COURTESY/BRAND
Leather, white or natural fur; $200, instagram.com/ bekielk
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The Edge
Here are Montoya’s latest designs from his apparel line. His apparel all feature his artwork
Timoteo Ikoshy Montoya
STYLE PROFILE
Timoteo Ikoshy Montoya It would be hard to believe Timoteo Ikoshy Montoya’s colorful, eye-catching designs feature his airbrush artwork from decades ago. Reviving his classic art by placing them on contemporary clothing was what caught our attention.
Some of Montoya’s popular printed-apparel feature his earliest artwork.
T
ALL PHOTOS: COURTESY/BRAND
Montoya is also a weaponsmith and jewelry artist
Shop Montoya’s designs at IKOSHY.COM nativemax.com
imoteo Ikoshy Montoya (Lipan Apache) has always been a multi-faceted artist, well-known for airbrush for decades. Montoya has been designing t-shirts since the 80’s, either in classic old school tattoo style or in airbrush. “You still see a few of my old t-shirts, some hoodies every now and then” Montoya explained. “I’ve always loved that old school tattoo flash artwork, so I started designing some but with a native twist” Montoya says his work has been received well by his clientele. Besides airbrushing and apparel design, Montoya is also a weaponsmith. He produced traditional weapons such as traditional knives, lances and war clubs for clients who need weapons to accompany their regalia. Working with metal jewelry is another medium that Montoya’s done since the early 80’s, often using sterling silver. Like most artists these days, Montoya branched out into other mediums to keep his customers and clients interested. “They’ll always look forward to seeing a new or different piece that you have done.” Montoya’s recent line of leggings and t-shirts have been doing quite well, according to him. “I like the idea that they’re manufactured in southern California,” Montoya says of his designs, which will soon be available in different styles and items such as blankets, towels, hoodies, kimonos, scarves and more. “My goal is to get my website up and running enough, so I can spend more time at home in my studio creating new works of art.”
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 9
The Edge #NATIVEFASHION
Year in Review: Fashion What an amazing year it has been for #NativeFashion. The progression of awareness for Native American fashion this year has been groundbreaking. Here are some standout moments that caught our attention this year (also major props to the movers-and-shakers!). 1.
2.
3.
BETHANY YELLOWTAIL’S INNOVATIVE WORK THIS YEAR
ACONAV WINNING DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AT PHOENIX FASHION WEEK
JAMIE OKUMA SET THE INTERNET ON FIRE WITH HER NEW RELEASE
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NATIVE FASHION WEEKS ON THE COME UP THIS YEAR
ORLANDO DUGI CONTINUES TO AMAZE US
NATIVE FASHION NOW EXHIBITION WRAPPED UP THIS YEAR
Fashion-forward do-ers in Indian Country aren’t waiting for mainstream fashion weeks to properly showcase Native American designers. They’re creating their own fashion weeks. Native Fashion in the City hosted it’s 4th annual event in March in Denver, CO. Otahpiaaki Fashion Week is a social innovation project based at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Canada, which took place in September. Each year, Otahpiaaki hosts an annual indigenous beauty, fashion and design week.
For the first time in Phoenix Fashion Week’s 9 year history, a Native American-owned brand took top honors as the 2018 Couture Designer of the Year. Acoma Pueblo engineer-turned-designer Loren Aragon took home the coveted title back in October. This year’s PhFW was Aragon’s second time competing for the award. His runway presentation was an unforgettable display of culturally fueled fashion including contemporary dance and elegant designs.
With the release of his Spring & Summer capsule collection, couture designer Orlando Dugi (Diné) proves that his talents have no limit. His capsule collection “embodies regal tones and accents of an awakened spring time garden. A parade of flowers with the delicate intricacies of sparkling beads and crystals reflecting sunlight off the morning dew.”
2
When Jamie Okuma (Luiseño/Shoshone-Bannock) released sneak peeks of her upcoming collection on social media, she had the internet buzzing like a beehive. Beaded floral printed leggings and tees, satin bombers and vibrant floral scarves were just a handful of items found in her new release. Jamie debuted her new line at the Santa Fe Indian Market back in August.
The critically acclaimed exhibition “Native Fashion Now” from the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) in Salem, Massachusetts, was presented by the Philbrook Museum of Art from Oct. 2 through Jan. 8, 2017. Visitors were immersed in the rich realm of Native American fashion by indigenous designers from across the United States and Canada dating from the 1950s to today. Featured artists and designers included Jamie Okuma, Virgil Ortiz, Orlando Dugi, Jared Yazzie and more.
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6 1
10 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
JAMIE OKUMA: COURTESY/BRAND; BETHANY YELLOWTAIL: SCREENSHOT; LOREN ARAGON: STEVEN YEU/PHOENIX FASHION WEEK; NATIVE FASHION NOW: COURTESY/BRAND; ILLUSTRATION: COURTESY/ORLANDODUGI.COM
This year was Bethany Yellowtail’s year, and she’s just getting started. The Northern Cheyenne/Crow designer has been featured in mainstream publishers such as Today. com, Entrepreneur.com, People.com, Forbes. com and Nike N7. She released an amazing collection this year, setting the internet ablaze. Her designs have been worn by the likes of America Ferrera and Shailene Woodley. She was even invited to the Vogue HQ to speak on a Diversity in Fashion Panel!
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The Edge
COLLAB
The Weekender Fashionmongers Kelly Bedoni (Diné) of Native Luxe and Shondina Lee (Diné) of She and Turquoise show us how to relax in style this weekend, with the help of Native American-designs. BY KELLY BEDONI & SHONDINA LEE
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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 11
The Edge
Heritage Coat: GINEW T-Shirt: GINEW Black Leather bracelet: Maya Stewart Sterling Silver Jewelry: Alex Piechowski-Begay Model: Amber Whiting (Blackfeet/Diné)
12 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
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The Edge Wax Canvas Rider Jacket: GINEW Crow Wing Jeans: GINEW Black X T-Shirt: Santiago X Black Leather bracelet: Maya Stewart Sterling Silver Jewelry: Alex Piechowski-Begay Model: Kelly Bedoni (Diné)
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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 13
The Edge
Blanket: Eighth Generation
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The Insider Q&A with
Chef Shane Chartrand From dishwasher to award-winning chef, Shane Chartrand, of the Maskêkosak people (People of the Land of Medicines) from Enoch Cree Nation, has accomplished so much in his forty-two years of life. Not only is he one of Canada’s leading chefs, but he’s also on the forefront of the re-emergence of Indigenous cuisine. Despite his brilliance and achievements, Chartrand is a humble, down-to-Earth-fellow, who enjoys eating as much as he does the cooking (or maybe a little more than he'd like to admit). Chartrand sits down with Native Max and talks about his journey of working to the top of the culinary world and why food reverence should be a big part of who we are.
PLUS: NEWS FROM THROUGHOUT INDIAN COUNTRY #NATIVEBIZ GIFT GUIDE THE MAKINGS OF A DINÉ SAILOR
PHOTO: WALTER TYCHNOWICZ
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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 15
The Insider
to create a bison broth. He adds that he was featured in several cookbooks, like Great Canadian Masters Cookbook and Feast Cookbook, just to name a few. Chartrand is also highly trained and holds credentials. For example, he’s considered a Chartrand first opens up about his early life. Red Seal chef He endured a far-from-normal childhood, which means having lived through the foster care system he earned this until he was adopted at the age of seven. accreditation by “I was in 6 homes in 5 years,” he explains. demonstrating “I don’t remember a whole lot about it. I superior skills don’t remember having any family until I and knowlgot adopted.” edge as a chef But Chartrand explains that it wasn’t a My goal is to learn about as and passing a rough childhood. Upon being adopted by a exam. Métis father and Mi’kmaq mother, they told many indigenous nations as I national He’s also a Level him about his Maskêkosak roots. His adopcan. Their culture, their foods. 1 ISG Sommelitive parents taught him how to not only fish er, meaning he and hunt, but also the importance and value is a trained and of food. “I made sure I’m never wasteful. I knowledgeable have a strong reverence for food, period.” wine professional. Chartrand grew up on an acreage outside of Penhold, Last month, Chartrand competed in and won (makAlberta, Canada, where his family raised chickens, ing him first First Nations person to do so) the Gold geese, ducks, and horses. Despite growing up on a farm, Medal Plate at Edmonton’s Gold Medal Plates Culinary a youth Chartrand wanted to do something in the arts. Competition. His dish was the unanimous first choice Although cooking is all he’s done, Chartrand admits to of the judges, which was alive with texture, taste, and wanting to be an actor, singer, firefighter, or carpenter. complexity. Chartrand competed years before but only It was when he washed dishes at his first job he noticed took home silver and bronze. The competition continues how much fun cooking looked. “So I asked to cook. It across the country, culminating in the Canadian Culiwas a truck stop greasy spoon restaurant,” Chartrand nary Championships in Kelowna in February 2018. The laughs. “Now I’ve worked at about thirty different Canadian Culinary Championships is recognized as one restaurants, bistros, sushi bars and hotels.” of the most intense national competitions that a chef can Chartrand then relocated to Edmonton for culinary be a part of. Chartrand will compete against the countraining. He tells me that on the day he moved to try’s top eight to ten chefs who won Gold Medal Plates Edmonton, the very next day was his first day of culinary from each city. To be crowned the top chef in Canada is school. “I was 19 years old, and I only went to Edmonton a career changer. twice before,” he laughs. “It was crazy. That’s the first It’s also worth noting he’s a REDx Talks speaker, havthing I did.” Through his first semester at culinary ing shared his story with a packed house (while sporting school, he worked at chain restaurants and eventually his chef’s apron at that). At his REDx Talk, he shared moved to sole-owned eateries. “I then went to hotels and with the audience about the importance of food identity then to fine-dining bistros. I went to family restaurants and how First Nations family gather and eat. and a sushi bar. Basically, I tried to work in every enviCharitable opportunities always remain a priority ronment.” for Chartrand, reminding us that success is not just Chartrand worked with award-winning chefs and dependent upon credentials and experience. He’s partrained in some of Canada’s best restaurants and hotels, ticipated in events for charities such as Kids with Cancer where he furthered his culinary skills. Soon, Chartrand and Make-A-Wish and taught cooking classes to Native ascended the upper echelons of the culinary world. youth in the community. Chartrand also volunteers and He started out as Head Chef at Dante’s Bistro and Sky helps out at the Zebra Protection Centre, an organization Lounge, then to Chef De Cuisine until taking over as which offers 24-hour crisis response and intervention for Executive Chef at the award-winning Sage Restauchildren at risk for abuse, most often sexual abuse. This rant inside River Cree Casino and Resort, where he is holiday, Chartrand plans on cooking Turkey dinners for currently. five-hundred people in his community, along with some Chartrand was recently diagnosed with diabetes. keynote speaking. When told that it’s due to him “being aboriginal” he Chartrand keeps himself humble, despite meeting refuted. “We are what we eat.” According to Chartrand, many famous chefs and people in his career. When it was because he lost sight of what eating is, along with asked if there was a chef he admired most, he admitted the spirituality of eating. “Big thing for me was when I that he respects the styles of chefs. “It takes a lot for me was younger, we were taught gardening, the importance to get overdrawn.” of our root cellar, and taught about outdoor living, and Midway through the conversation, I thought of how when I started getting into the restaurant industry, I was most chefs are rather serious all the time. When asked working six to seven days a week,” Chartrand explains. when he’s happiest at work, Chartrand admitted he’s He says that the ingredients him and his family used on happiest when he cooks small intimate dinners for peothe farm weren’t the same as those in the restaurant. “I ple. In his downtime, you can find Chartrand cruising lost track of that. In my 20’s it all came back to me. No around on his motorcycle. “I have a Harley, so I like to doubt for sure I could’ve eaten a lot better.” ride my motorcycle. Gets my mind clear.” Chartrand garners an impressive collection of Another thing Chartrand does for fun is to travel and bronze, silver and gold medals alongside notable awards. eat at restaurants. So far, Chartrand has crisscrossed the Chartrand also appeared on Chopped: Canada, where he whole continent of North America, having cooked (and placed 2nd in 2015. Chartrand was featured in countless ate) in Okanagan, Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and New different news columns and articles, both in print and York. He admits to being a “culinary destination” travonline. He’s covered many local and regional magazines, eler, traveling to places and trying out restaurants he’s such as Avenue. He’s the face of products by companies been dying to try. “I love to travel and eat at restaurants. such as Straw Man Farm, whom he partnered up with
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16 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
My travel is always going to be food destinations”. One more reason why Chartrand travels is so he can get a feel for different kitchens and familiarize himself with various cooking environments. He tells me that he’s set to travel to Japan and San Francisco, and return to New York to cook next year. When asked if there’s a type of regional food, cuisine or ingredient that stuck out to him from his travels, his answer is earthy ingredients. “Bear, salal berries, reindeer moss, birch, etc.” Currently, Chartrand’s cuisine of the moment is indigenous and Canadian. He is, however, capable of producing French, Mediterranean and Asian of many kinds. He tells me his must-have ingredients at any given time are dandelion honey, haskap berries, Freekeh, Farro, dry-aged meat, and bison. You can always find Chartrand hunting and fishing during his off time, which still happens to be an active passion of his. He tells me that he’s planning on visiting home sometime this month to hunt and fish. I recall an article that I had read, about how fellow Indigenous chef and food activist Karlos Baca (Diné/Tewa/Nuche) rejects the term ‘chef’ due to its French-European derivation. Chartrand admits he appreciates it. “I appreciate the word ‘chef’ just for the respect of how long it takes actually to become one,” he explains. “Also, European food is a big part of our country’s roots and multi-culturalism. I don’t look at the negatives of something that doesn’t hurt anyone". As mentioned in the beginning, Chartrand’s other passion is to teach about indigenous cooking, especially to the youth. Factors he shares with them is indigenous cooking and about genuinely respecting your food and ingredients, some of which he learned from his adoptive father. “Using every bit of the animal and the building blocks of how to become a responsible chef, to have food reverence”. The next few months look to be super busy for Chartrand. He’s representing Edmonton in the said Gold Medal Plates competition in February. He’s cooking for Edible Canada in Vancouver and opening a new restaurant called SC. He’s also in the middle of working on a cookbook called MARROW - Progressive Indigenous Cuisine. “It’s a book about my family, my life, my friends, my travels. Heavy story-driven. Short clips of inspiration” he explains. Soon, we’ll probably see Chartrand on a vibrant cooking show on TV. He says that he’s currently working on a deal with the APTN network of Canada for a possible cooking show and documentary. For Chartrand, it’s not about the fame or getting on TV. His goal is to promote the idea and purpose of indigenous cuisine and merely relay the message of the spirituality of food he’s learned to the culinary world and beyond. “Aboriginal cuisine is a big part of the food and beverage world. Food changes who we are.” Chartrand perfectly explained that hunting and fishing, from finding your food to hunting and preparing it, enables you to have more respect for food. “How indigenous is hunting. We have a massive responsibility to take those traditions and carry them on.” Chartrand adds that cooking with fresh ingredients in the kitchen is vital. He says a lot of the ingredients and products he uses in his restaurant are fresh farm ingredients. It’s exciting for me to sit down and chat with an indigenous chef who’s on the forefront of the re-emergence of indigenous cuisine. You can hear his love for indigenous cooking in his voice, and you can see it in his eyes as he talks about it. So far, Chartrand’s challenges aren’t bad. “My goal is to learn about as many indigenous nations as I can. Their culture, protocol, ceremonies, and of course, the culture of their foods.” Chartrand says that indigenous people aren’t the only ones excited to see their food and culture marry together. It’s also non-indigenous people. “Food is culture; food is medicine, food is who we are.”
See more photos of Chef Chartrand’s dishes, and more on NATIVEMAX.COM
PHOTOS: COURTESY
LEFT: Chef Shane Chartrand posing on his Harley motorcycle; BELOW: Pulled bison with pickled cucumbers and popped wheatberries
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The Insider FOOD
CULTURE
SEAN SHERMAN DEBUTS NEW BOOK ‘THE SIOUX CHEF’S INDIGENOUS KITCHEN’
BOOK: COURTESY/UPRESS.UMN.EDU; NICCO MONTANO: COURTESY/UFC; BLANKET: COURTESY; STARQUILT: SCREENSHOT
Chef Sean Sherman (Oglala Lakota), also known as The Sioux Chef, debuted his new book The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen, which features healthful plates that embrace venison, duck, blueberries, sage, amaranth, and abundant wildflowers. Sherman dispels outdated notions of Native American fare; no fry bread, dairy products or sugar here. This book is a delectable introduction to the modern indigenous cuisine of the Dakota and Minnesota territories. Sherman wrote his book with Beth Dooley. Order your copy here: upress.umn.edu/book-division/books/ the-sioux-chef
Eighth Generation’s Released a New Blanket with Sealaska Heritage Institute Eighth Generation recently released ‘Blanket of Knowledge’, a new blanket apart of the collaboration between Eighth Generation and Sealaska Heritage Institute. The design, which features, was adapted by Richard Dalton III (Tlingit) from a classic 19th century robe. Find out more info here: eighthgeneration.com.
DOCUMENTARY SPORTS
NICCO MONTAÑO MAKES HISTORY AS SHE BEAT ROXANNE MODAFFERI FOR FLYWEIGHT TITLE Nicco Montaño (Diné) accomplished something that no woman, a Native American woman at that, has done before. Montaño is the UFC’s first female flyweight champion. Montaño opted into the running when UFC decided to open a 125-pound division. Montaño (4-2) defeated Roxanne Modafferi (21-14) via unanimous decision at The Ultimate Fighter 26 Finale at Park Theatre.
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South Dakota Public Broadcasting premiered Points of Pride: South Dakota’s Quilting Heritage documentary late November The new one-hour documentary from South Dakota Public Broadcasting shares the past, present and future of quilting in South Dakota. The documentary explored the many facets of the quilting culture in South Dakota, including the starquilt tradition of the Native American people of the region. The documentary already debuted on SDPB in South Dakota. The only way viewers can watch is by going to http://watch.sdpb.org/ video/3006333788/ and signing up for SDPB Passport.
Looking for more news around Indian Country? Check out our website: NATIVEMAX.COM DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 17
The Insider
FEATHERS & SILK Turquoise feather dress with sleeves, Tammy Beauvais, $85, shop.beyondbuckskin. com
EVOKE EMPOWERMENT Rise Knit Dress, ACONAV, $150, aconav.com
Clothing
#NativeBiz Gift Guide
Support Native American businesses this holiday. We put together an easy guide that’ll help you shop for those on your list while supporting Native American small businesses.
18 NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
T-SHIRT: COURTESY/OXDX.COM; FEATHER DRESS: COURTESY/BEYONDBUCKSKIN.COM; RED DRESS: COURTESY/ACONAV
UNIVERSAL & UNISEX Save What We Have Left t-shirt, OXDX, $32.50, oxdx.com
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The Insider
GLITTER LIKE GOLD ‘Audrey’ White Otter beaded/porcupine quill set, Jaymie Campbell for B.Yellowtail, $120, byellowtail.com
GOLD/PORCUPINE JEWELRY: COURTESY/BYELLOWTAIL.COM; SILVER PENDANT: COURTESY/KRISTENDORSEYDESIGNS.COM; TURQUOISE NECKLACE: COURTESY/DZABAHE.COM; BEADED CUFF: COURTESY/ETKIE.COM
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Jewelry
LIKE A SHIELD OVER YOUR HEART Heart of the Shield Pendant in Sterling Silver, Kristen Dorsey Designs, $180, kristendorseydesigns.com
DOSE OF WAMPUM MAGIC Sterling Silver Wampum Bracelet-3 Wampum Cabochons w/ southwest design by Mitchell C. Zephier Sr. @ Lakota Jewelry Visions, $205, wampummagic.com
ALL ROSIE Eileen Glass Cuff Large, Etkie, $275, etkie.com
CLASSIC STONES Turquoise Heishi Necklace, Dzabahe Jewelry, $27, dzabahe.com
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 19
The Insider
Bath & Body
SWEET & SOAPY Mini Soap Gift Set in Sweet Blends, Sequoia Soap, $12, sequoiasoaps.com
CHEEKBONE BEAUTY Cheekbone Lip Gloss, Cheekbone Beauty, $24, cheekbonebeauty.ca
COMFY & COOL FLORAL Woodlands Floral Throw Blanket, Sarah Agaton Howes for Eighth Generation, $72, eighthgeneration.com VIBRANT STARQUILT Medicine Star Quilt, Billy Werk for B.Yellowtail, $350, byellowtail.com
Home
COOL RUG The Invaders Rug, THE NTVS, $250, thentvs.com
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SOAP: COURTESY/SEQUOIASOAPS.COM; ROSE CREAM: COURTESY/NATIVE NECTAR; LIPGLOSS: COURTESY/CHEEKBONEBEAUTY.CA; FLORAL THROW: COURTESY/EIGHTHGENERATION.COM; RUG: COURTESY/THENTVS.COM; STARQUILT: COURTESY/BYELLOWTAIL.COM
REFRESHING & ROSIE Rose Revival Cream, Native Nectar Botanicals, $32, nativenectarbotanicals. com
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The Insider
The Makings of a Diné Sailor We meet Operations Specialist 1st Class Denise Alamo, who is not only a proud Diné woman, but also a proud U.S. Navy Sailor. BY PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS ELESIA K PATTEN Operations Specialist 1st Class Denise Alamo poses for a photograph on the fantail of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz and its strike group are on a regularly scheduled deployment in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. The U.S. Pacific Fleet has patrolled the Indo-Pacific routinely for more than 70 years promoting regional security, stability, and prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Marcus L. Stanley)
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a’at’teeh, shí éí Denise yinshyé, Kinyaa ą’anii nishłí, Tá neeszahnii bashishchiin, Ą’shįįníí dashicheii, Mą’íí deshgíízhníí dashinałí. This is how Operations Specialist 1st Class Denise Alamo introduces herself to other people from the Diné or Navajo tribe. It translates to: Hello, my name is Denise. I’m Towering House Clan, born for Tangle Clan, my maternal clan is Salt People and my paternal clan is Coyote Cross Path. “In Diné culture, you must know what your four clans are because they make who you are,” said Alamo. “For instance, when I introduce myself to another Diné, I would say my clans in the following order: my mother’s clan, my father’s clan, my maternal grandfather’s clan, and paternal grandfather’s clan. A proud Diné woman, Alamo is also a proud U.S. Navy Sailor, assigned to Destroyer Squadron 9 of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11. She’s currently serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) on a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific. Since 1994, the U.S. Navy has reserved November to celebrate and honor Native Americans and Alaska Natives. CSG11 joins in the celebration by recognizing Alamo, one of its own. Throughout her 18-year career, Alamo said she has crossed paths with several other Sailors who belong to her tribe. Military service is fast becoming a tradition in her family – her brother is currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps and her “Shi chéí”, or grandfather, was a U.S. Navy nativemax.com
Seabee. Alamo said her decision to join the Navy was motivated by her “Shi chéí.” “Shi chéí always talked about traveling and seeing different parts of the world,” said Alamo. “I also wanted to travel. Being a Native American Sailor holds much integrity and pride back on the reservation.” Alamo grew up on the Diné Nation Reservation, an area near the Four Corners of the United States called "To'Likani" or Sweetwater, Arizona. Her family owned two houses; one was near the main road in Sweetwater and the other more remotely snuggled in the Carrizo Mountains. During the school year, they lived in the house on the main road. Come summer, the family moved to the isolation of the mountain house where they herded livestock and raised crops. “Our nearest neighbor was about a mile away,” Alamo said. “That house had no electricity or running water. We had a farm that we maintained during harvest season and we planted fruits and vegetables such as corn, apricots, grapes, strawberries, watermelon, cabbage, tomatoes, and avocados.” Alamo’s Navy life and her life on the reservation share some similarities. While deployed, she trades her life on land for a life in a more secluded environment. Like up in the mountains, the ocean distances her from grocery stores, movie theaters, and other home comforts. The many customs and traditions that are so heavily ingrained in the Navy also mirror Alamo’s way of life on the reservation. “My grandparents enjoyed attending cer-
emonies and traditional dances so during my childhood I’d attend many dances such as: Fire, Rain, Squaw, Yei Béí Chéí, Bear, Gourd, Round and pow wows,” Alamo said. “Some ceremonies we attend are: Blessing Way, Protection Way, cleanings and purification (sweat lodge), Journey to the Spirit World, Kinaałda (puberty) and other Peyote meetings.” Just as her grandparents ensured the traditions of her people were passed on to her, Alamo proudly passes on Diné tradition to her children. “I’m proud to be Diné and that I know my language, culture, and tradition,” said Alamo. “Diné people are also called the ‘Holy People’. We have many taboos that we are told to abide by, however that tradition is dying with the younger generation. I tend to pass on the taboos of our tribe on to my kids along with the folktales and many stories of Coyote the trickster. I will also make sure that they know their clans.” Alamo draws inspiration and strength from her people, and uses them to inspire her throughout her career in the Navy, she said. “In my tribe we have a saying, ‘Hózhóoogo naasháa’, which translates to ‘in beauty I walk,’” Alamo said. “To me this means, no matter what obstacles are thrown at you, always strive to better yourself professionally and personally.” Native Americans have been part of Navy history since its inception. Their undeniable strength and impact on protecting the United States, demonstrates the illustrious legacy of the first inhabitants of our nation.
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Cover Story
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ON THE COVER
I Am Anishinaabe:
BY DARREN THOMPSON (LAC DU FLAMBEAU OJIBWE) PHOTOS BY HUNT + CAPTURE
Ojibwe Women Seek New Horizons While Honoring Tradition
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lothing—what we wear—has always been an essential expression of culture in Indian Country. For many Tribes, their items of clothing have stories that are as unique as their history. They reveal the legacies of ancestors through their creativity, abilities and the resources that were available to them. As new materials were introduced, new ideas and concepts were created setting trends and preferences that are showcased at museums throughout the world and still preferred to this day in Indian Country. The trends that were set generations ago reflect many significant values beyond monetary value; they reflect family, heritage, and appreciation for all of creation. Due to the forced assimilation of American Indian people to abandon their culture, many trends and traditions of times past were simply forgotten. The artwork, languages, and traditions slowly died, but as of lately many traditions are being revived and preferred once again. Many artists are finding their way into archives throughout the hemisphere to search for their people’s long-lost traditions so they may reintroduce them to their communities to appreciate again. Delina White, a Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Tribal nativemax.com
Member, has carried a vision that has been a lifetime in the making—passing her cultural knowledge, abilities, and traditions onto the next generation. She’s an award-winning artist specializing in Anishinaabe floral beadwork, sewing, jewelry-making, and so much more. She’s a grandmother, mother, wife, teacher, organizer, writer, champion jingle-dress dancer, and business owner. Several years ago she launched I Am Anishinaabe, a business featuring her vision to expand Anishinaabe patterns and clothing with her daughters to share with the wider world. I Am Anishinaabe features the creations of Delina White and her two daughters Lavender Hunt and Sage Davis. Together they showcase the unique and beautiful artwork of the Anishinaabe people. Their work has been showcased at some of the most prestigious American Indian art markets in the country as well as various museums and galleries throughout the Midwest. Here, three generations of Anishinaabe women—Delina White, her daughters Lavender Hunt, Sage Davis and her granddaughter Nookwakwii “Snowy” White—share their stories through cultural lenses on how their creations and dedication to family carry on their legacy and heritage. DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 23
The Vision Maker:
Delina White
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chieving goals can take a lifetime. A member and resident of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Delina’s memories from her upbringing are vivid. She recalls her small home with two bedrooms and without running water or electricity in Onigum, Minnesota. Some of her best memories include walking the paths and trails of the “old ones” with many of her cousins. As long as she can remember she was surrounded by loved ones in the environment where her people have thrived for generations. Delina has been sewing, beading and creating various items since she was six years old. She was taught by her grandmother Maggie King. She recalls that her passion has always been art, but was directed towards business by her mother, Kathleen Headbird. It was after 20 years of pursuing higher education that she received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in management and management information systems. Before that, she graduated from the Barbizon School of Modeling in Minneapolis, Minnesota at the age of 16 and since has had a burning interest in fashion, modeling, and the industry. It was only becoming that she combined her love for her heritage and fashion into a business. After influencing her daughters to bead, sew and create other materials, their work developed to represent each artist. And with growing recognition for their elaborate creations, Delina was able to experience her 25-year vision become a reality when she decided to pursue art full-time. With the support of her family and loved ones, she formed her own business I Am Anishinaabe. Delina expresses she is fascinated with her people’s history, which is why she strives to incorporate her traditional cultural patterns into her work. This is likely why she has been in high-demand for as long as she can remember. Her patterns in her beadwork resemble those of her grandmother. “To this day, I create from what I remember of my grandmother Maggie’s style of pattern onto bags and other garments,” says Delina White. “As I continue to research the Anishinaabeg and other Great Lakes Nations, it makes me happy that I am Anishinaabe, which we all share the heritage, culture, and history of all of these beautiful people and our history.” When creating, Delina adores fabrics and aims to not limit her creations to
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only include materials before the arrival of Europeans. So, like many artists, what is appealing to her eventually makes its way into her items. She has been a student of fashion and appreciates many aspects of fashion including cultural influences on style. “I love all fabrics from the complex and royal brocades, smooth and rich satins, cool cotton and linens, to the utilitarian, functional wools combined with exotic ribbons from the Indies,” she says. “I love the indigenous gemstones from the earth and its fine and rare form to its imperfect cloudy state. I am inspired how Native people have incorporated things that were necessary, accessible, and beautiful into their items of clothes and jewelry. How our people developed individual styles depending on what was available to them is inspiring to me. Knowing the story of why our people used copper, wampum, bells, coins, and mirrors are why I choose to incorporate those items into my pieces as well.” Because of Delina’s passion for her people’s art and its history of incorporating diverse materials into their creations, she has been driven to continue with her creations in a similar manner. Each item has a story, a history, and a purpose. “It is extremely rewarding being able to work with my daughters,” says Delina. “We have a strong, close relationship where we understand each other and how we work individually and collectively, allowing us to pursue I Am Anishinaabe. As a family, we have had some very beautiful experiences in sharing our culture and pursuing our art." I Am Anishinaabe is the brand of Delina White featuring collaborations with her daughters Lavender Hunt and Sage Davis. Together they have represented I Am Anishinaabe at the world-renowned Santa Fe Indian Market and have been selected to showcase their artwork at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian among a few select artists for the 2017 Native Art Market in Washington, D.C. With a strong entrance into the arts industry, the future of I Am Anishinaabe is promising. Collectively, orders for commissions by individual clients are well over a year into the future and have been for quite some time says Delina. She hopes to showcase additional creations by planning and organizing various fashion shows throughout the United States and is open to collaborating with communities, venues, and other designers to take Native fashion to the masses.
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Miskwa-zenibaakwe, Red Ribbon Woman:
Lavender Hunt
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avender Hunt comes from a long line of strong Anishinaabe women. She’s a daughter, mother, sister, jingle-dress dancer, teacher, seamstress and bead artist from Onigum, Minnesota. She started beading and sewing when she was seven years old. Her inspirations are many including not only her grandmother and mother, but her father, Gerald White and many of her relatives who have all guided her along her journey. “I initially started beading and sewing to dress the dolls I played with as a little girl,” says Lavender Hunt. “My mother and grandmother always took us to ceremony and powwow, so the attire I saw those women wear was beautiful to me. I wanted my dolls to emulate the beauty I saw as a little girl.” Today, Lavender’s creations are a must-have among many. From jingle-dresses to ribbon skirts, her work wows people with her combination of materials and attention to detail. Everywhere she goes, she shares her stories of her creations, often giving away her skirts to make others feel beautiful, loved and to carry her stories to others. Though her creations are heirloom pieces, Lavender says she strives to teach the next generation of girls to create starting with making jewelry to sewing ribbon skirts. In fact, she does just this Monday through Friday as a Cultural Advisor at the Deer River High School in Deer River, Minnesota. She works with high school girls and teaches them not only to sew and bead but the role those items play to themselves individually and to their community. Lavender continuously teaches the next generation of girls to make ribbon skirts because that’s what was emphasized by her grandmother. “I focus on the ribbon skirt because my grandmother taught me to always wear my ribbon skirt,” she says. “Healing comes from Mother Earth, and the skirt radiates in the way Mother Earth does. That’s why we teach women to make them and how to wear them on everyday occasions. We have ceremony skirts, round dance skirts, dating skirts, everyday work skirts, skirts with meaning. The colors we use all have meaning.” “Whenever I teach our young girls, I strive to teach them the lesson behind what they are making to empower them, so they know we come from a strong line of women,” says Lavender. “Everything I was taught while growing up was to prepare us for mino-bimadiziwin: a good way of life. Living a good way of life is being happy and pursuing success. Success is being happy.”
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Lavender’s goal is to make sure her grandmother’s teachings continue. “I want to empower women,” says Lavender. “Women are supposed to support one another, and this was something I heard my grandmother say repeatedly.” “Creating for others is all about giving people a sense of self-identity,” Lavender explains. “Understanding what people’s likes are and what is important to them is the biggest part of creating for others. When I get to know someone, I often stop and pray for what I’m creating for them because I want everyone to be proud of what they wear, like our ancestors did.” Lavender looks to her culture to teach others. “My culture is about a beautiful way of life, and it’s all-encompassing,” she says. “They include physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and being able to give to others, for me, includes all aspects of this, which is why I love to create. No matter where the person comes from, if they know the story of my creations, they all grow to love and appreciate what we were able to create together.” Lavender’s goal one day is to pass on to her children the ability to create, sew, and bead so that they can represent their family, culture, and community to others contributing to the revival and pride of a once oppressed culture. Above all, Lavender strives to be a positive role model for her family, for her people and others, much the same way her grandmother was to her. “Growing up in Onigum, I thought we were wealthy in our knowledge and way of life, and my grandmother constantly reinforced that, and she is the main reason I do what I do today. I want to inspire all of our people that we all come from beautiful people that have a rich history.”
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Educating by way of Art, Culture:
Sage Davis
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age is an award-winning bead artist who’s been practicing her craft for more than twenty years. Creating since she was six years old, Sage Davis is no stranger to expressing herself creatively. She grew up in Onigum with her mother Delina and her sister Lavender, who were her inspirations to learn to create. As long as she can remember she has had an outlet whether that be through journaling, beading, sewing or drawing and recalls her first creations being beads strung together to make earrings. She states most importantly about her journey is her passion for teaching others and is able to accomplish this through both her art and her career. She uses a variety of materials to represent her people's way of life and culture. Highly educated, she’s already achieved her bachelor’s and is pursuing her Masters in Education at the University of Minnesota-Morris. Currently, she recruits for the American Indian Studies program at Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minnesota. Sage is an educator by day, an artist when she makes time. She strives to inspire the next generation to continue to higher education and relates her upbringing and culture to inspire Native people to accomplish all they can. She says her art has been an important role in educating because she is able to talk about her culture through her art. Through her people’s oral traditions does she express that her people have persevered and hopes other Native people can look to their heritage as well for inspiration. “My creations have given me the happiest moments of my life,” says Sage. “I recall some of the saddest moments of my life when I wasn’t creating, but through that self-awareness do I realize where I come from and how important it is for me to create and aspire to teach others cultural and family pride.” “When reflecting on my personal life, I realize those difficult moments where I wasn’t creating were a result of my life being disrupted,” Sage says. “I lost my father some years ago, and I didn’t create for the longest time and creating helped me heal. Creating for me brings balance. Every time I create, I feel I heal. This is something our people have been doing for generations, and I want to inspire others to realize this as well—that we can all accomplish amazing things.” She approaches each piece with honor and has been recognized professionally for it. One of her most prized moments was her first submission to the Santa Fe Indian Market in 2016 where she submitted a fully beaded cape in the Contemporary Beadwork category and was awarded 2nd place. “Being recognized for something I’ve been doing my whole life is such a thrill,” says Sage. “My art, of course, is an expression of who I am and I want people to look at my work and know that certain pieces are mine. I want my work to give people a sense of pride and empowerment in themselves and realize we are all talented in our ways.” Although able to boast an impressive art career, she says her art isn’t entirely who she is. She has goals to one day become a professor and to incorporate her art into her educational work. She aspires to teach at the collegiate level and to always honor her family, her heritage and her community to instill pride, knowledge, and appreciation for the Anishinaabe people. Combining her passion to teach through both her creations and her career, Sage aspires to inspire students of all ages and backgrounds to take pride in culture and people that were once oppressed by both federal policy and religious creed. She is a living embodiment of inspiration pushing boundaries and creating along the way motivating wherever she goes.
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Nookwakwii “Snowy” White nativemax.com
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nowy is the first granddaughter of Delina and Gerald White and comes from a long line of strong women. She’s the daughter of Lavender Hunt as well as a sister, jingle-dress dancer, student, and multi-talented artist. She beads, paints, draws, models, sings and sews. At only 12 years of age, she already has won numerous old-style Jingle Dress contests on the powwow trail and was the previous Powwow Princess for several communities. She credits her mother for teaching and inspiring her to create with honor, love,
and passion. Representing a strong line of Anishinaabe women, she dances in the way her grandmother, mother and relatives dance—to honor those before, present and yet to come. She aspires to one day create extensively in the way her relatives do. Taught to bead by her mother Lavender, she says she creates daily. Whether that be earrings for friends, medallions for relatives, or headbands for herself, she aims to make people happy, proud and wants people to be grateful for what she can create. “When I see people happy with what I’ve made for them, it makes me feel wonderful,” says Snowy. “That feeling of making someone else happy is why I choose to create and inspires me to want to improve what I do. One day, I’d like to make an entire dance outfit for my family.” When seeking inspirations in creating, she looks to her family, to whom she’s creating for, and even to Mother Nature. Much like her ancestors, she is inspired by her surroundings and hopes to capture natural beauty in her work. Her work features many of our relatives including four-legged, birds, fish, plants and even sunsets. “When I create something, my mother taught me to always have a good mood,” Snowy says. “I want people to be inspired and to know that all good thoughts and prayers went into what I’m making.” And like any other artist, the most challenging aspect of creating for Snowy is her time. A full- time student at Deer River High School, she struggles to balance her time. Between dancing, traveling, creating, studying, and her siblings, her time is high-demand. She says, however, if something needs to be done that she makes time. “Dancing taught her to be determined, focused, and dependable,” says her mother, Lavender Hunt. “She understands her role in her family, her school and her community. So, she understands at a very early age of what it means to have responsibility." With an already blessed upbringing with strong support from her family and loved ones, it is inspiring to envision what the future looks like for Snowy. She says that one day, she wants to study medicine. “I feel my creations carry on the traditions of my family,” says Snowy. “One day I’d like people to desire outfits and work made by me, like my mother, aunt Sage, and grandmother Delina.” Delina beams with pride in her granddaughter Snowy and her ability to dance, create and represent her family with humility and pride. Upon admiring her ability to create with such elaborate detail, she expressed that it won’t be long before she’s creating for I Am Anishinaabe.
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A New Horizon
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eeing I Am Anishinaabe become a reality is a dream come true says Delina. Having her family involved makes the journey more rewarding than she could have ever imagined, but the future has high aims. Taking work to another level requires risk, sacrifice, and challenges. With desires to have her work showcased at some prestigious venues, fashion shows, and markets internationally, Delina is dedicated to showcasing her people’s way of life and its history of inclusion, creativity, and respect for all things. Running a business of any sort has many challenges, and an art business is no exception. In fact, an art business is as daunting as creating. Showcasing American Indian culture through fashion has gained momentum in the last generation due to many reasons. Other American Indian designers are showcasing their culture through fashion, and the general public is becoming more aware of these unique approaches to fashion. But like many other barriers that American Indian people face, I Am Anishinaabe also faces those same challenges of access to capital, marketing,
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promoting, selling, maintaining inventory, and generating new clients. But they are dedicated to finding ways to grow and share their culture. Their dedication to sharing their work is why they have come so far. They’ve been awarded various national grants to continue to develop and highlight their work and will continue to pursue other competitive opportunities. With support, they hope to take their work to an international level and to produce at a higher rate so that more can be proud of their Anishinaabe creations. It is no wonder why their work is sought after by countless people beyond borders. They incorporate not only exquisite materials into their creations but their love, tradition and extreme attention to all that encompasses an item as well as a person. Taking their work to some of the most prestigious markets, showcases, and galleries, they intend on continuing with their journey. For those interested in finding their work, contacting either Delina, Lavender or Sage please visit their website iamanishinaabe.com. You can find Delina, Lavender, Sage, and Snowy on social media, on the powwow trail, or tune in via their website. Keep a close eye on these trailblazing women as they empower, amaze and revive a nearly lost tradition. nativemax.com
Photo by Jena Cumbo Makeup by Maria Ortega Hair by Andrita nativemax.com
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Model Moment:
Daunnette Reyome FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD DAUNNETTE REYOME IS CERTAINLY WISE BEYOND HER YEARS. WE CATCH UP WITH THE UP-AND-COMING MODEL ABOUT HER MODELING BEGINNINGS, HOW SHE GAINED HER CONFIDENCE AND WHY SHE’S USING HER PLATFORM AS A STAGE TO VOICE HER OPINIONS.
Native Max: Daunnette, welcome! First off, what is your tribe? Daunnette Reyome: Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Where are you from? DR: I'm from the Omaha Indian reservation, also in Nebraska. May I ask how old you are? DR: I'm 15 years old. Wow! When did you decide to take modeling seriously? DR: At about the age of 12 years old. What was your first real modeling gig? DR: My first job was with a celebrity hairstylist by the name of Phillip Wilson. I did a hair show with him in Virginia. Were you shy at first? DR: I was shy when it came to photoshoots. I hated doing photo shoots because it felt so awkward to me, plus I was really self-conscious about my looks. I would turn down photo shoots and only do runway work because on the runway you were only getting a quick glimpse of me. How did you overcome it? DR: Something my dad, Rodney, came up with to help me not be so nervous and scared on the runway was this: give one look to New York, one look to Paris, wink at Milan, then turn around and bring it home. I always tell that story because my dad helped to strengthen my confidence with just that one little gesture and I still use that to this day on the runway. People think photo shoots are just about taking cool pictures, but it's a lot more than that. If you're not confident, then modeling is hard work. My mom printed out ‘I am’ affirmations and pictures of what my goals were, where I wanted to go in my career; a vision board. She hung them up on my bathroom mirror, on the wall in front of the toilet [laughs]. Also all over my bedroom walls so every time I used the bathroom, no matter what I was doing I would see my goal or I could read the affirmations
and be reminded of what I wanted and tell myself ‘I am beautiful, I am worthy, I am confident,' things like that. At first it was weird to me but after a few weeks of all the positive self-talk I actually was able to see my beauty. I learned to love myself and understand the beauty of being an Indigenous woman and unique in my way.
because I choose to speak up for my people and it scares me to think that it might not happen. That's what I've wanted to do since as far back as I can remember. But if I have to choose between loving my people and being a big voice for them or compromising my integrity, then I choose my people. We're all worth the risk.
What has your modeling career been like so far? DR: It's been an interesting journey. Some ups, some downs. I wouldn't say I've been like "supermodel status" busy but things come in waves. I can go from having quite a few bookings in a month to nothing for a couple of months. However, during the school year, I try not to do as much because it requires me to miss school and I don't like missing school unless it's working with youth. I turn down a lot of things just because it's not me, or what I represent. If I feel like it could potentially hurt my brand or that it might change people's perception of the people or me in Indian Country then I don't take the job. In some people's eyes, I'm not "Daunnette Reyome, the model." I'm "that Native or Indigenous model." I'm put into a box. So that's why I always ask myself how my actions or the jobs are going to affect how people see me or see my people because they'll see ‘Native’ or ‘Indigenous’ model and assume that's who we all are and that's not right. You wouldn't think it would be this way, but it is.
When did you start working with Teen Vogue? How is it working with them? DR: I was 12 years old when I did the Cultural Appreciation feature in the magazine but turned 13 years old shortly after. It's been great. The Teen Vogue staff are all so fantastic to work with and just outstanding people to know. They are very supportive of not just me but Indian Country altogether. They want to see us rise together as a nation and for our history to be told by us; not to cause controversy but for us to have our say for once and it not be filtered or twisted. So I am very thankful and appreciative of Teen Vogue for giving me that platform.
How do you find your confidence to model in runway shows or photoshoots? DR: I know who I am. I'm Daunnette, the model. I'm Daunnette, the speaker. I am Wiragųšge Šibre Wįga, or Shooting Star. I know what I want and where I want to go, and I'm determined to achieve it all. I'm determined to live up to the name my Choka (grandfather) Greg Bass Sr. gave me. You’re very vocal and speak out against racism and cultural appropriation among other issues. What motivates you to do so in such a cutthroat, white-dominated industry? DR: The love I have for my people and the determination I have to inspire others to get to know who we are and how beautiful our culture is. I feel like so many have this image of what an "Indian" is based on what they've seen on tv but no one really knows us. People don't know about the power of our songs, the beauty of our traditions, the connection we have to Wakanda [Creator], the connection we have to Mother Earth, our spirituality. All these things are what make us such a beautiful nation. I know there are jobs I didn't book because of who I am, and I know there will be plenty more jobs that I won't get because of that, too. I try not to let that get to me. I've gone over the possibility that I may not achieve my dream of becoming the first Native American Victoria's Secret Angel or the first Native American supermodel
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What is your advice for a Native youth who’s interested in modeling or finding a platform to use their voice for the good like you do? DR: Try your hardest. Don't let anyone kill your dream and always believe in yourself. Tell yourself that you can do it. See yourself doing it. Even on the days when you don't think you can, go even harder. Modeling can be a brutal industry so make sure you have thick skin. Learn about yourself, your culture, where you come from and who you come from so you're always more knowledgeable than the vultures that will try to knock you to the ground. Keep our message alive. Make sure what you have to say is powerful so that people will want to pass it on to you and always be thankful for every opportunity. View the criticism as an opportunity for your message to be shared, too. One thing I've learned is not to react or respond to criticism because even those that don't agree with you will share your message. It might not be shared with positive intentions but either way, it is still being shared. When I'm gone, I want someone else to pick up where I left off and keep my message going. Continuing to use your platform like you have been, what are your ultimate goals? DR: Bring more awareness to the bad things that go on in Indian Country that are otherwise never talked about in world news in hopes of obtaining more resources to help us. I want our culture to be respected and for us to be viewed as people and not that stereotypical image that you see on the Redskins’ jersey or in Disney's Pocahontas. I want us to learn to respect each other and our bodies again. I want to help end the cycle of abuse, neglect, depression, suicide and addiction in our communities. That isn't us. That's my ultimate goal.
PHOTO: COURTESY
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ou may have seen her on one of the many videos by Teen Vogue. Or you may have come across one of her photos on Instagram, which either contain her quote in the captions or thousands of likes, or both. Nonetheless, it’s hard to believe that outspoken model Daunnette Reyome is only fifteen years young. She is one of a handful of Native American models using their platform to battle the cultural appropriation, racism, and stereotypes circulating the world today. I sit down and speak with Reyome about modeling, like how she first got involved in modeling and how she uses it as her stage to bring more awareness to Indian Country.
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Photo by Jena Cumbo Makeup by Maria Ortega Hair by Andrita nativemax.com
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PROMOTION
All Native Max Issues Now Available in Print All print issues of Native Max Magazine are now available! NativeMax.com > Get the Magazine > Get Back Issues
On Radar 2017: Year in Review What a year for Native entertainment! From Native American actors appearing on national television to being on the big screen, Indian Country has certainly made some waves this year! At this rate, Native American and First Nations actors will be more common on TV. Check out some of the most memorable moments of Native Hollywood from this year.
PLUS: PRESS PLAY! NOVEMBER READS
Photo by Richard Foreman, Jr/AMC
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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 33
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On Radar
Gil Birmingham in Various Big Films this Year
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RUMBLE: Indians Who Rocked The World film releases
RUMBLE tells the stories of those myriad Native Americans of Canada and the United States who went on to become iconic, influential rock-and-roll musicians. It’s a feature documentary about the role of Native Americans in popular music history. The documentary tells of a profound, essential, and missing chapter in the history of American music: the Indigenous influence. Featuring music icons Charley Patton, Mildred Bailey, Link Wray, Jimi Hendrix, Jesse Ed Davis, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Robbie Robertson, Randy Castillo, and others, RUMBLE shows how these talented Native musicians helped shape the soundtracks of our lives. RUMBLE debuted in Canada on April 30, 2017 and in the USA July 26, 2017.
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Wes Studi to Star in Hostiles Opposite Christian Bale Cherokee actor and industry veteran Wes Studi’s newest film is set to hit theaters December 22nd. The film is set In 1892, where a legendary Army captain reluctantly agrees to escort a Cheyenne chief and his family through dangerous territory. The film will also star Saulteaux actor Adam Beach.
Native American Actors in Wind River Native American actors Gil Birmingham (Comanche), Martin Sensmeier (Tlingit), Graham Greene (Oneida), Julia Jones (Choctaw/Chickasaw), Tokala Clifford (Oglala Lakota), Tantoo Cardinal (Métis), Apesanahkwat (Menominee) and Althea Sam (Dinė) starred in an already star-studded film, which released a few months ago. Wind River is a chilling thriller that follows a rookie FBI agent (Elizabeth Olsen) who teams up with a local game tracker with deep community ties and a haunted past (Jeremy Renner) to investigate the murder of a local girl on a remote Native American Reservation in the hopes of solving her mysterious death. Wind River is written and directed by Taylor Sheridan (HELL OR HIGH WATER, SICARIO). Wind River is also an award-winning movie, scoring awards at film festivals all over the globe. The cast of Wind River are currently on an Oscar campaign.
Brave Rock in 3 Eugene Wonder Woman Native American actor and stuntman Eugene Brave Rock (Kainai/Blood Tribe) boasts an impressive filmography. To name a few, he’s been a stunt performer in the TV series Tin Star as well as Hell on Wheels. He was not only a stunt performer for The Revenant, but he was also the stunt coordinator. When a Native American actor is a part of the main cast of an action film, it’s usually a very small role. Brave Rock was instead a major component of Wonder Woman’s superhero team, and played a crucial part in saving the world. Despite being upset with the name of ‘Chief’ (as told to NPR News), Brave Rock was given the opportunity to speak his own language, Blackfoot. In the movie, he introduced himself in the Blackfoot language.
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Tatanka Means & Zahn McClarnon in The Son Native American actors Zahn McClarnon (Lakota) and Tatanka Means (Oglala Lakota/Omaha/Dinė) starred together in AMC’s TV series The Son this year. The Son is a multi-generational epic telling of the story of America’s birth as a superpower through the bloody rise and fall of one Texas oil empire.
7 2017 Was Michael Greyeyes’ Year Plains Cree actor, director, scholar and founding artistic director of Signal Theatre Michael Greyeyes is another actor who boasts a lengthy resume. He’s had parts in TV series and films alike from 1993. However, this year was probably his best. He played one of the protagonists in hit TV show Fear the Walking Dead. He also played Sitting Bull in Woman Walks Ahead, opposite Oscar-nominated Jessica Chastain.
RUMBLE POSTER: COURTESY/SUNDANCE; EUGENE BRAVE ROCK: COURTESY/COMPANY; WIND RIVER: COURTESY/COMPANY; HOSTILES POSTER: COURTESY/ENTERTAINMENT STUDIOS MOTION PICTURE; THE SON: COURTESY/AMC; MICHAEL GREYEYES: COURTESY/AMC
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It looked like a busy year for Native American actor Gil Birmingham. Not only was he in Wind River, he was also in The Space Between Us, TV series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Transformers: The Last Knight. He’s currently wrapping up filming in a few upcoming movies set to debut next year.
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On Radar ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Chickasaw Author Talks Debut Novel, Upcoming Essay
Here’s what you need to know now.
After debuting her novel After the Fall in January, author Kate Hart (Chickasaw) and her short story of inspiration and perseverance will appear in Hope Nation. Storyteller, weaver of words, ink slinger, wordsmith – young adult (YA) author Kate Hart is no stranger to the art of creating fiction. Hart, a Chickasaw citizen, debuted her novel After the Fall, published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux, in January. After the Fall tackles issues many teenagers face, from sexual assault and consent to poverty and reputation, Hart doesn’t shy away from addressing heavy-hitting truths. Told in dual perspective, After the Fall focuses on the lives of best friends Raychel and Matt. Raychel is dealing with the aftermath of sexual assault and Matt struggles to understand Raychel’s emotional and personal anguish. As the story unfolds, friendships are tested and the threads that bind threaten to snap as grief and anger collide.
BOOK COVER: COURTESY; INDIGENOUS LEGENDS: COURTESY; TALL PAUL: SCREENSHOT
JOURNEY TO PUBLISHING After working as a teacher and grant writer, Hart rediscovered her true creative passion – writing. In 2009, she began truly devoting time to writing fiction, eventually penning After the Fall while raising two young sons with her husband. “I wrote in high school and felt very aware of my age,” she said. “I started researching and reading YA and I realized they are like adult books. There is great literary YA that can stand on its own with any adult book.” After finding her niche, Hart only had to find the story within her ... a story in the making since she was a young adult. “When I started writing After the Fall I didn’t have any goals for it. I was just doing a writing exercise,” Hart said. “At the top of the page I wrote ‘I want to write about’ and then made a list. I started listing and it was stuff like hiking, growing up in this region – the further I went I realized it was a lot of stuff from my growing up.” Inspired by the novel The Handmaid’s Tale, Hart was compelled to draw from her own life experiences, including assault, high school and her environment growing up. From there, After the Fall was created. It was published eight years later. Publishing a novel isn’t as simple as counting to three. It takes patience and dedication to the work in progress. Hart had the gumption and it paid off when she received a book deal in 2014. “Writing is hard. Publishing is exhausting,” she reflected. “You’ve got to have your support team who can help you learn, help you be a better writer and help you navigate the business.” At last, in January 2017, release day arrived and After the Fall hit bookstore shelves. Her novel was public, intriguing readers with its eye-catching cover and gripping contemporary story. WORLD OF WRITING Characters made from thin air filled with life and depth; twists and turns form a plot keeping readers guessing; the journey in creating a novel is no easy feat. Hart knows this firsthand. “Characters and plot are equally important,” Hart
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said. “An interesting plot will keep you reading but only if you care about the people involved in the plot.” When taking on the mission to write a novel plot and characters are at the forefront of a writer’s mind, but several other components must be considered to move the story along such as dialogue and setting. “Dialogue is easy for me to write,” Hart said. “It is hard to make it sound convincing. It’s tough and then there’s the added pressure of ‘do they sound like teenagers?’” The characters in After the Fall aren’t based off anyone Hart knows, yet she does include quirks and personalities from people she has met into her characters. “I think writers interject a little of themselves into every character,” Hart said. “For characters to really feel alive, you’ve got to use some of your personality and if not yours then you’re stealing little bits from other people you know in real life.” Hart said once she began editing After the Fall it became important to figure out what is telling or illuminating to readers. “There’s a lot of debate about whether it’s YA’s job to teach a lesson or to tell a story,” she said. “I fall on the ‘tell a story’ side personally.” With any novel, the story being told is the backbone of the content. Readers should come away learning something, but feel as if they were transported to a different world while doing so. WHAT LIES AHEAD For Hart, the future is full of endless stories waiting to be told. Whether it is a historical story or another contemporary novel featuring real-life situations, Hart’s storytelling captivates readers with believable characters and circumstances. Her love for storytelling goes hand-in-hand with her Chickasaw heritage and culture, something she has been researching for years. She feels closely connected to the history aspect of the Chickasaw Nation and hopes to dig deeper into her Native American heritage. “I knew growing up about my heritage and I’ve always had an interest in it,” Hart observed. In early 2018, she will have an essay introduced in Hope Nation, an anthology featuring stories about hope and how to stay hopeful. Hart said her essay will touch on how to keep hope while being a cynic. Hope Nation brings together 24 fan-favorite young adult writers to tell their own personal stories of maintaining hope and finding inspiration. Through each sentence she crafts, Hart puts a little of herself into each story. She powers through the odds stacked against writers to reach readers who will connect with her through her story. “Stories shape who we are as people, as a community and as a country,” Hart said. “I think stories, both true and fictional, are important to identity on all levels.”
INDIGENOUS LEGENDS COLORING BOOK RELEASES Hip-hop artist MC Redcloud, one half of the hip hop duo LightningCloud, is now a coloring book author. This coloring book is both fun and educational. It features Indigenous people from actors to activists, including Adam Beach and Russell Means. This coloring book is both for kids and adults. The coloring book is available on Amazon.com.
HIP HOP ARTIST TO RELEASE MUSIC VIDEO RECALLING THE LEGACY OF JIM THORPE Anishinaabe hip-hop artist Tall Paul released his music video for ‘Someone Great Who Looked Like Me’ and it’s fire! Check out the music video on either nativemax.com or Tall Paul’s Youtube channel. For more entertainment news, check out our website: NATIVEMAX.COM
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 35
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