The
Native Women Arise Issue
A Day in the Beautiful Life
Bethany Yellowtail
PLUS Lyla June Allie Joseph Alyssa London Sharice Davids Asia Youngman Juliana Brown Eyes & more
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Contents March 2018
Welcome to the Issue 003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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BEHIND THE COVER
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EDITOR’S WELCOME
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MASTHEAD
check out what’s in this month’s issue we take you BTS at our cover shoot
welcome to the Native Women Arise issue
who’s all on our team
The Edge
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RISE & ACCESSORIZE WITH WAMPUM
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DESIGNERS TO WATCH
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FASHION IT GIRLS
take a break from turquoise with wampum watch out for these designers this month
these style influencers showcase more than just their style
The Insider 023
3 NATIVE WOMEN WE’RE TALKING ABOUT
these Native women are using their talents and platforms to help inspire others
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SISTERHOOD OF NATIVE BOSSES
these Native women bosses share their advice on opening up a business, & more
Features 032
DAY IN THE BEAUTIFUL LIFE: BETHANY YELLOWTAIL meet the #NativeFashion queen herself
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09 027
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NATIVE WOMEN ARISE
these successful Native women are arising together and inspiring other Native women
On Radar 045
ARTIST PROFILE: LYLA JUNE
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MARCH READING LIST
this Diné singer has overcome a lot and now shares her story and music Award-winning books by extraordinary Native women make up this month’s reading list
Behind the Issue
Behind the Scenes of For more BTS video from the cover shoot, head over to Youtube.com/ NativeMax
Upon confirming with #NativeFashion Queen herself, Bethany Yellowtail, our team booked a trip to head to Los Angeles for the cover shoot. After roaming around downtown L.A. for a bit, we stopped into Bethany’s swanky white-walled yet vibrant studio. Her walls lined with Native-designed wall art prints while Native jewelry
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Cover Shoot with Bethany Yellowtail The #NativeFashion queen herself let us inside her amazing studio in downtown LA for a photoshoot.
and accessories dotted her tables. Let’s just say, her studio is #decorgoals. When we arrived, Bethany was doing a fitting for Native actress Irene Bedard! It turns out that Irene asked Bethany to dress her B.Yellowtail-style for the movie premiere of “A Wrinkle in Time.” How amazing!
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PROMOTION
OxDx x ACONAV for NFITC 2018 #NFITC2018 Merch Available at nativefashioninthecity.com/ shop
5th Annual Native Fashion in the City Friday, March 23, 2018 Cultivated Synergy in Denver, CO Tickets on sale now: www.nativefashioninthecity.com/tickets
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Photographer/MUA: Hannah Manuelito | Model: Chanelle Amber-Dawn (IG: @chanelleamberdawn) | Shots taken at FABRIC in Tempe, AZ
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Editor's Welcome We had the honor of featuring #NativeFashion queen herself on the cover of our Native Women Arise Issue: Bethany Yellowtail
We had a photoshoot with wampum jewelry from Native womanowned Wampum Magic
Sharice Davids found time from her campaign (she’s running for Congress!) schedule and shared some words of encouragements with our readers
Native Women Arise
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his issue stands for many things. For starters, It’s the six-year anniversary of Native Max Magazine. It’s also our second Native Women’s issue. This year is also a landmark time for Native women all over Turtle Island. Native women are now taking control of their lives, their businesses, and their respective industries and moving forward. For this issue, the theme I came up with was ‘Native Women Arise.’ I know what you’re thinking. “Aren’t Native women already rising!?” What I mean by this, which is also something I want to remind Indian Country, is that more Native women need to come together and arise together. Native women who are already at the forefront of battlefields or patiently waiting on launchpads should hold out their hands and help guide our Native sisters up with them. I’m not saying take them with you wherever you go. Guidance, words of encouragement, advice, mentorship; whatever it is can mean the world to someone. And if our Native sisters who are timid or confused about what they want to do, maybe seeing a fellow Native sister will help inspire. All too common do I see some Native women secretly tear each other down or gossip on social media. That’s not helping us; instead, that’s hurting us. What echoes into the world is when a Native woman
praises and shouts, “I support her! Good job!” One Native woman that I most admire and because of her support for Native women --besides her resiliency and success-- is Bethany Yellowtail. She is the epitome of what supporting our Native sisters look like. She not only surrounds herself with a warm, confident squad of Native sisters, but she also gives Native women an opportunity to grow their businesses through her company, B.Yellowtail Collective. Despite her growing success and esteem, she’s down-toearth and humble. This was why I approached Bethany with the honor of being on our cover. She proudly accepted the invite and even let us into her studio (love it!) for a photoshoot. We also featured handfuls of Native women in this issue, from entrepreneurs with encouraging words for fellow Native women who are interested in starting their businesses to Native women who are ready to take on the world armed with only their intelligence, confidence and pride. My goal for this issue is to inspire motivation amongst our Native sisters to come together and arise together. I know I’m inspired! Enjoy the issue.
“Native women need to come together and arise together. Native women who are already at the forefront of battlefields should hold out their hands and help guide our Native sisters up with them.”
Kelly Holmes Founder + Editor-in-Chief
@kellycamilleholmes @kellycamilleholmes @kellzholmes
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PROMOTION
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 Staff Photographer Viki Eagle
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.
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Pair these beautiful attention-grabbing wampum accessories with your favorite outfit, thanks to Wampum Magic.
FASHION IT GIRLS DESIGNERS TO WATCH
Rise & Accessorize with Wampum Photography by Viki Eagle Styling by Kelly Holmes Makeup by Rae Woody
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The Edge
Model Rae Woody (DinĂŠ) Necklace Wampum & Copper Gorget Necklace, Lydia Chavez for Wampum Magic, $225, www. wampummagic.com Rings Beaded Wampum Medallion Rings, Wampum Wear, $50, www.wampummagic.com
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Model Cali Wolf (Sicangu Lakota) Necklace Blue Crystal & Copper Gorget Necklace, Lydia Chavez for Wampum Magic, $225, www. wampummagic.com
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The Edge
Model Rae Woody (Dine) Earrings Wampum Spike Earrings, $30, Wampum Magic, www.wampummagic. com Rings Beaded Wampum Medallion Rings, Wampum Wear, $50, www.wampummagic.com Bracelet Silver & Wampum Bracelet with Animal Effigies; $150, Mitch Zephier for Wampum Magic, www.wampummagic. com
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Model Cali Wolf (Sicangu Lakota) Earrings Beaded Wampum Medallion Earrings, Lydia Chavez for Wampum Magic, $65, www.wampummagic. com
! Shop Wampum Magic’s latest collections at wampummagic.com!
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The Edge STYLE PROFILE
Designers to Watch
These indigenous designers on the rise open up about their inspirations, upcoming collections and why it’s crucial for indigenous women to work together.
Photo by: Rachael Ow en Model: Josie Irusta
Kanaine Designer: Sydelle Harrison
ael Owen Photo by: Rach Sampson ie nn Ro el: od M
Angela DeMontigny Boutique
ANGELA DEMONTIGNY: COURTESY
Designer: Angela DeMontigny
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The Edge Kanaine Designer: Sydelle Harrison
T
his Pendleton, Oregon-based brand is a full representation and extension of owner Sydelle Harrison (Cayuse, Walla Walla & Yakama) and her Walla Walla heritage. Not only are her designs influenced by her western lifestyle, but the name ‘Kanaine’ adapts from Walla Walla Chief Jim Kanine. Where did you grow up? I grew up on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in the foothills of the Blue Mountains just above Cayuse, Oregon. When did you start creating? I feel like I've always been creating! I enjoyed art in school and painted, drew, and threw clay into college. My mother was very creative: drawing, sewing, and beading. I lost my mother when I was three, but I carried on her creative genes. When did you have your first thought of starting your own business? When I was five months pregnant with my second daughter in May of 2013, I chose to leave my job to finish college. At that point, I had bought my sewing machine and a leather machine from a boot-maker in town. I had several months to put a business plan together and sat with some boot-makers and saddle-makers on main street Pendleton before we moved to Corvallis, Oregon to finish school at Oregon State University. By this time, I was making coats and small bags which I sold through a friend's boot shop in Pendleton, Oregon, along with my first pair of fringe shorts! I wanted something that challenged my creativity, provided a bit of income while in school, and that I could do at home with my babies. I never knew I would love it so much, but it is so rewarding, and I love teaching my girls how to problem-solve, the lessons from many failures and restarts, and the ins and outs of running a business, just like my parents showed me.
Sydelle modeling her most popular Buckaroo Cowls (Photo by Ryan Ashley)
PHOTO: COURTESY
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!
Shop Kanaine at kanaine.com!
What moved you to name your business "Kanaine"? The ridge I grew up on in the foothills of the Blue Mountains is called Kanine Ridge. The area is named after Walla Walla chief Jim Kanine, whose family still lives nearby. I adapted the spelling a bit, but it is very personal to me. My connection with that land is profound. Every one of my childhood memories is in those hills. I picked wildflowers all spring, chased wild horses when they came down in the fall, went sledding and woke to elk in our front yard in the winter snow. It is why I am the person I am today. I still feel such a sense of peace when I return to my father's home with my family. Describe the style of your designs? What makes Kanaine different from everyone else? My style incorporates flare with function. I have a heightened awareness for comfort and the ability to use every piece in multiple ways if possible! I strive to combine my influences from the western lifestyle we, as Horse People of the Plateau region, adopted with modern functionality. I love the beaded designs my daughters, and I have had the opportunity to wear from our family collection, and I look for ways to share that detail and care in creating with a broader audience. My choice to use
Pendleton wool is because it's interwoven into our culture in Pendleton, Oregon with the mill right there. We use the blankets for ceremonies, rituals, and trade to this day and it was a natural fit for me. I still have items my mother made me from Pendleton blankets before she passed, so I take that feeling and put it into pieces I send out to other families. Any upcoming projects or releases we should know? The Cowl and Willie lines have been so successful this past year with the recent exposure I've gotten, that I am trying to juggle a transition at the moment, but it is an exhilarating experience! I plan to release some t-shirts very soon along with more Willie fringe bags, a couple of the backpack diaper bags, and lots of skirts for summer. One item I am so excited to bring back and revamp is the original fanny pack, which was the first bag I ever made in my kitchen. They are everything: style, fringe, functionality (for those of us with no hands and busy babies) in a smaller, affordable package. What has been your inspiration lately? After having three little girls, I also get inspiration from getting back to the person I want to be going forward. My body has been through a transformation, and I am looking forward to getting out of my leggings and making more everyday styles that push the Kanaine brand forward. I've always been athletic, and I love having pieces in my wardrobe that can go with both classy social events with heels and everyday street-style with sneakers. What are your most popular designs? Wow, my Buckaroo Cowls have been popular this winter. They are perfect for working outside or just keeping warm while out running errands. The Willie fringe bags are a pretty favorite as well as the backpack diaper bags, but I am looking forward to making more skirts and fringe shorts. You’re included in our Native Women’s issue, in which we want to highlight Native Women connecting and working together to arise. How do you help Native Women arise? I am currently a Master of Public Health student at Oregon State University. Since returning to school, I have looked for ways to connect to my home community and other tribal communities in Oregon. I started a tribal student campus tour here at the university that I plan and lead for any tribal student interested. It has grown in the past couple years, and last May there were twenty-seven students and chaperones from the CTUIR and Warm Springs communities who attended. I served as a panelist for Discovering the Scientist Within, which aims at providing girls in 6th through 8th grade with access to information and experiences in STEM programs here at OSU. I shared my educational journey and what brought me to choose a future in STEM. I intend to use Kanaine to provide scholarship opportunities for young women and men from communities like where I come from to pursue their dreams. I hope to have enough saved up to honor my late mother, with a Pamela Jones Harrison Memorial Scholarship announcement within this next year.
MARCH 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 15
The Edge
!
Shop Angela DeMontigny’s designs at angelademontigny.com
Angela DeMontigny Boutique
W
e caught up with First Nations fashion designer Angela DeMontigny, who just released a new lookbook for her latest collection that caught our eye.
What tribe are you? Where did you grow up? I’m Cree/Metis, and I grew up in the Vancouver area. When did you start creating? I started creating when I was around 12 or so. I was always artistic and began sketching dresses and outfits in my early teens. When did you have your first thought of starting your own business? I started my first design business when I was 24 years old. I hand-painted clothing then started designing casual sportswear. I decided early on that working in an office as a secretary was not the life for me and I needed to be creative. Describe the style of your designs? What makes your designs different from everyone else? My style is very much ‘casual glam,’ fashion that fits the busy lifestyles of women, are versatile, comfortable yet glamorous. I have always had an eye for beauti-
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ful materials and finishes so my designs are classic yet edgy, sophisticated yet sexy, luxurious but not pretentious. They are unique in that the inspiration for every collection derived from some aspect of my native heritage.
What are your most popular designs? My most favorite designs right now have been my pink leather motorcycle jackets and trench coats, my new printed-silk wrap skirts and tanks, embroidered suede jackets, silver suede skirts and leather culottes.
Any upcoming projects or releases we should know? I just came back from the U.K. where I showcased my latest collection at an exclusive Press and Buyer’s event with eight other Canadian designers during London Fashion Week. I will be dressing award-nominee, Algonquin/Metis actress, director and filmmaker Michelle Latimer on March 6th in Toronto for the red carpet at the Canadian Screen Awards. I will also be a featured designer in two upcoming fashion shows this month in Toronto at Ryerson University, and Vancouver in Squamish First Nation during Vancouver Fashion Week. Plans to show during London Fashion Week in September are also in the works.
You’re included in our Native Women’s issue, in which we want to highlight Native Women connecting and working together to arise. How do you help Native Women arise? I have always promoted and supported the work of other contemporary designers, artists and artisans in my boutique and gallery and the last year and have started to collaborate with more artisans, who happen to be women, on custom jewelry that coordinates with my fashion collections. I have been an advocate, speaker, and mentor for many up-and-coming designers and indigenous business women over the years and planned to hold master class workshops shortly. I have also taught self-esteem boot camp workshops to groups of young indigenous women ages 11-19 years of age to help them with envisioning and strategic planning for their life goals, also how to dress appropriately for their body shape, makeup application and proper skincare as well as the importance of healthy eating and exercise.
What has been your inspiration lately? My inspiration lately has come from our relationship to the stars, sun, and moon and stories that discuss that connection. Of The Stars is the title for my 2018/2019 capsule collection.
PHOTO: COURTESY
Designer: Angela DeMontigny
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The Edge STYLE PROFILE
Fashion It Girls These Native American women are more than influencers of style. They’re also influencers of culture and incorporators of their tribe’s rich history. Meet #NativeFashion It Girls Shondina Lee, Juliana Brown Eyes and Nekiah Torres. Shondina Lee - Style Influencer One look at style influencer and photographer Shondina Lee’s Instagram photos leave you thinking how easy her style game must be. Little do we know the hard work and careful planning Lee puts into capturing her style for her followers. Lee uses her style to not only give a glimpse into her Navajo heritage but also to inspire self-confidence in others. What’s your tribe? Where are you from? I am from the Navajo Nation, which makes me Navajo.
Shondina Lee - She and Turquoise
When did you decide to get into fashion? What draws you to it? I believe it was a couple of years ago when I decided I wanted to get into fashion. I guess my page started out more like an amateur photography page. Most of my pictures were mainly of animals, like horses. So I think it was a complete change for the followers I had then. How did you embrace self-confidence? What’s your advice? I think self-confidence is something that everyone struggles with, whether or not we want to admit it. It’s a little weird because I have a lot of confidence when I’m wearing an outfit I like. But there are still other things I get selfconscious about so my self-confidence varies. Self-confidence isn’t always being “vain” or “conceited.” I’ve gotten a lot of confidence just through Instagram and posting some of my projects. Once I had people commenting on my photos or sharing them, that’s when I think, “okay, some people like what I’m doing. I’m going to keep doing this.” My advice for people out there is to stay true to what you want to do and don’t be afraid to follow through with it. PHOTO: COURTESY
Who is your go-to designer? My go-to everyday outfit is really simple: a plain white tee, boyfriend jeans or leggings, and white Converses or moccasins. Whenever I dress up for an event or even to go to town,-
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The Edge
I do try to go all out. It may be a little much at times for some people, especially going to town. [Laughs] What’s one piece you will not go outside without? Jewelry! I have to be wearing some turquoise jewelry, whether it’s earrings, bracelets, or both. When I don’t have any jewelry on, I feel so weird! What inspired you to become a style influencer? Surprisingly, it wasn’t something I set out to be, it just happened. I don’t remember it being as popular as it is now so I didn’t know a style influencer was something you could be. I’ve always liked looking at fashion magazines, and eventually, the thought of doing my photoshoots came to my mind. I had a camera, and I started out by taking photos of my outfits. My mom helped me a lot with that, and she still does to this day. Fortunately, there were small businesses that reached out to me and asked me to take pictures in their clothing. That’s where it all started. I’m not where I want to be yet; content-wise and creatively. I still have to work on my photography and continuously think of new content. My goal is to make content with a “high fashion” vibe. I want my photos to speak for themselves. How do you incorporate your Navajo culture with your style? My style is my culture! [Laughs] No, in all seriousness, I’ve always seen my culture as something that’s apart of me. So I try not to see it as a “style.” The way I think of it is, back then for my ancestors, the clothes, the jewelry, and moccasins they wore were just apart of their way of life. Of course, now with all the options, we have for clothing I guess I have a more modern feel or vibe. Keeping up to date on social media is a lot of work! How do you do it? It’s so much work! I am honestly the worst at posting consistently. When social media isn’t your full-time job, it can be a lot. Personally, this is how I mentally plan a photoshoot: outfit planning, brainstorming a concept, look for a photo shoot location that coincides with the idea, set aside time for photo shoots, editing, and finally posting. Some people are good at it, and I envy them. Describe your style. I always have a hard time describing my style. It’s all over the place at times! It’s a mixture of a lot of different things.
PHOTO: COURTESY
Check out Shondina’s style at instagram.com/sheandturquoise
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The Edge Juliana Brown Eyes - Musician & Style Influencer Juliana Brown Eyes (Oglala Lakota/Tongan) isn’t necessarily a fashion blogger, but she is a style icon whose style is unrivaled. Did we forget to mention that she is the thrift store queen? Brown Eyes’ wardrobe comprises of either Native American-made designs or thrift store finds. When did you decide to get into fashion? What draws you to it? I’ve always been intrigued by art and all things that encompass art aesthetically; whether it be in music, film, or photography. I love how free fashion can be if you feel like wearing a skin-tight leotard encrusted with Swarovski crystals to the grocery store. Be my guest! You don’t have to justify it to anyone.
taught we aren’t enough or that our beauty is measured in the number of followers who like a photo. The moment you stop to appreciate that we all have these enormous spirits radiating decades of perseverance from the women who came before us; we begin to see that our existence alone is compelling and, yes, even beautiful! My advice would be to get in touch with yourself on a spiritual level so that you can appreciate just how awesome you are. Who is your go-to designer? My favorite designers are all my indigenous peers who are keeping our culture alive and relevant. If I weren’t a starving artist myself, I would pack my closet with designs from Jamie Okuma, B. Yellowtail, ShoSho Esquiro, Korina Emmerich, Louie Gong, Darlene Perkins, Caroline Blechert, Collins Provost, Jesse Longbrake, Helen Oro, and many more!
Ever since we’ve known you, you radiate with self-confidence. How did you embrace your confidence? What’s your advice? Self-confidence is something I struggle with daily. I have What inspired you to become a style influencer? to remind myself that I’m worthy of all the beautiful things One day I performed a concert with my band at a local coming and that I deserve them. As young girls we are school on our Reservation. Afterward, the cutest little girl
gave me a big hug and said, “I wish had enough money to dress like you. But my little sisters and I live alone with Grandma, and she’s too old to work.” This beautiful baby girl broke my heart. I then told her that I bought my top from Goodwill for $2.00. Her face lit up as she said, “Wow! Really?” I then said, “Clothes are temporary, it’s what inside you that lasts for eternity.” How do you incorporate your Lakota and Pacific Islander Tongan heritage with your style? I always pay homage to the synergy of both my Lakota and Tongan roots by wearing jewelry and adornments from both walks of life. I’m currently in the process of designing my own “KieKie” which is a traditional Tongan ornamental girdle worn around the waist to signify respect during important occasions. Traditionally, a KieKie is made from hibiscus fibers, flowers, shells, and basically, anything decorative found on the Pacific Islands. Because of my unique ancestry mix, I’ve decided to make a Lakotastyle “KieKie” fully-beaded to honor both the plains and the ocean.
Check out Juliana’s style at instagram.com/ julianabrowneyesofficial
PHOTO: COURTESY
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The Edge
Nekiah Torres Style Influencer
to being self-confident. Just do you. You are beautiful!
Nekiah (a.k.a. Kiah) Torres (Hopi-Tewa) is a thirty-something-year-old self-professed mixed chick and fashion blogger who found her style when she moved from her rez to the city. Torres admits having a love for fashion growing up, but elegant pieces weren’t always available on the rez. But that didn’t stop her. Torres would create outfits with what she had in her closet after reading through her mother’s fashion magazines for inspiration. Then, Torres started her blog to inspire others by promoting self-love and body confidence with her style. Her goal with Rez to the City is to prove that no matter your dress size, you can “rock” fashion and look great.
Your outfits are gorgeous! Who is your go-to designer? What’s your go-to outfit? I shop at curvy-friendly stores. My go-to outfit is jeans, a solid tee, a blazer and low heels.
How did you embrace your self-confidence? I became self-confident when I stopped comparing myself to others. Mass media influenced my image of beauty for years. I had to identify my strengths and stop trying to be accepted by others. When I finally realized that I wasn’t white, blonde, and thin, I fell in love with what I was, which is tan, raven-hair, thick, and beautiful. I’m not saying that white, blonde, and thin aren’t beautiful, but that’s not my reality. Therefore I needed to see images promoting beauty that looked like me. What’s your advice to someone who is looking for self-confidence? There is no secret formula
Describe your style. If I had to categorize my style, I would call it classically chic with a touch of glam and drama. How do you incorporate your Hopi heritage into your style? This is a great question. My culture has always been a part of my style. I speak against the industries misuse of my culture. One of my favorite posts is me in just a shirt that says “My Culture is Not a Costume.” The dilemma with incorporating my Hopi-Tewa ancestry into my style is availability. Dallas, TX is known for fashion, but the Native fashion in Dallas is mostly commercial. The access to Native designers who are local is few and far between. I incorporate native designed necklaces and earrings, but who doesn’t. I could walk around town rocking a manta and mocs, but that’s not realistic. I could wear a piece of silver or turquoise and a Hopi t-shirt, but that’s not incorporating my ancestry? Also, that’s not what I consider fashion. I want greater access. I want to design modern clothing that includes the colors, prints, and themes that are meaningful to my ancestry. I see this as an opportunity, which is why I’m working on my fashion line.
Check out Nekiah’s style at instagram.com/reztothecity and www.fromthereztothecity.blogspot.com
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Nekiah Torres - Rez to the City
PHOTO: COURTESY
What draws you to fashion? It’s art. Fashion and makeup are art. You can take something simple and make it dramatic! That’s what draws me to it. I have the freedom to create what I like. Also, when I look good, I feel good. Try it! It’s not a myth. [Laughs]
What’s one piece you will not go outside without? I never leave without a pair of flats on my feet or in my bag. I’m never too cute to not listen when my “dogs” are howling. [Laughs]
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The Insider
NATIVE WOMEN WE’RE TALKING ABOUT Here are 3 stories of leading indigenous women we’re talking about right now.
1
This DJ Supports Youth & Native Women
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PHOTOS: PATRICK SHANNON
ancouverbased DJ, video editor and talent coordinator Cheyanna (Denesuline/Nakota Sioux/Cree) is a multi-talented DJ who focuses on facilitating workshops for the youth. Originally from Cold Lake First Nations in Alberta, Canada and a member of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Cheyanna remembers being the only one around who listened to electronic music while everyone else listened to rap and country growing up.
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Cheyanna says she loves all sorts of music, from hip-hop and house music to rock and punk. It wasn’t until she moved from her small community to the city when she was 17 years old that she discovered the whole world of electronic music and DJing. “I started going to EDM [electronic dance music] shows, and I admired the DJs,” she recalls. “I thought they were the coolest people at the show.” Although she thought of becoming a DJ, Cheyanna assumed it would be
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MARCH 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 23
The Insider
!
Check out Cheyanna’s mixes workshops online at www.djkookum.com
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workshops to teach youth necessary DJ skills, with the mission of no matter what their situation is, anything is possible. Cheyanna admits that it’s essential for indigenous women to look out for each other. “We’re in a world where racism and stereotypes towards Native people highly exist,” she says. “If we don’t stick together and support each other, how else are we going to make a change?” Cheyanna supports indigenous women as much as she can, especially in music, where she loves incorporating fellow Native musicians into her sets. “Being a DJ, I have the opportunity to share music, and I think it’s important for me to share my indigenous sisters’ work because they all have such powerful messages and that’s my way of spreading awareness. Music is our voice!”
PHOTO: COURTESY
impossible. Upon graduating from the Indigenous Independent Digital Filmmaking program in 2010, Cheyanna gained more confidence to try her hand at DJing. She finally purchased her DJ equipment and taught herself how to mix music. After two years of practicing, she was ready to play in front of an audience. And what’s up with Cheyanna’s DJ name? “Kookum is a Cree word for ‘grandmother,’” Cheyanna explains. ‘It’s been my nickname since I was about 13 years old.” Cheyanna attributes being called ‘kookum’ to her old soul. The youth hold a special place in Cheyanna’s heart. “I know what it’s like growing up broke, having an unstable parent and having younger siblings.” She facilitates
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The Insider
2 Filmmaker Uses Film to Encourage Youth & Inspire Change
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PHOTO: COURTESY
ilmmaker Asia Youngman (Cree/ Iroquois/Metis) became interested in film and photography at a young age. She was always artistic and creative growing up and naturally gravitated towards cameras. “I wanted to understand how they worked,” she explains. It was the perfect medium for me to experiment, preserve a moment and tell a story.” Youngman became sure she wanted to work in the film industry in her final year of high school, but put her dream on hold when she was accepted to the University of Victoria. “I think a part of me thought that I needed to consider a more academic career that would allow more financial stability and security. I quickly realized that pursuing a path like that would not make me truly happy.” Youngman rediscovered her passion for the film upon graduating college. She began working as a self-taught videographer and video editor for an online Indigenous youth wellness program and started taking a photography course at Emily Carr University of Art and Design. She eventually enrolled in film school and with the support of the YVR Art Foundation she made her first short film
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that same year. Lelum’ was inspired by the land and her home in British Columbia. “I am so fortunate to live in a place where I’m near the ocean and surrounded by mountains that I can hike and explore.” Youngman wanted to share some of that breathtaking scenery to show viewers that unless we don’t change our ways, we’ll lose environments like that shown in Lelum’. Youngman primarily used aerial cinematography, which offers a unique perspective as it takes viewers on a journey across different landscapes of the province through the changing seasons. “The purpose of the film was to show the beauty of the land from an indigenous lens,” she explains. “Furthermore, I wanted to give indigenous youth a platform to speak from the heart about the importance of the land and what it means to our people.” Youngman hopes that her film will spark conversations about how we can work together to protect and sustain the Earth and hopefully give the viewers a sense of urgency to take action. Lelum’ received an overwhelmingly positive response from both the audience and critics. “It was so unexpected when I received
the award for Best Documentary Short at the 2017 imagineNATIVE Film Festival in Toronto.” She continues, “Not only was it my first film, but it was also my first screening and the first experience attending a film festival as a filmmaker.” As an emerging director, her experience gave Youngman the confidence to move forward. “I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start my filmmaking career.” Youngman aims to help other indigenous women, especially youth, arise and succeed through mentorship and by sharing her knowledge and lived experiences. Already, Youngman traveled around the province of BC teaching film workshops for youth and young girls, and have mentored them through the process of creating their short films from pre-production to post-production. “I believe that women, particularly indigenous women, need more representation in this industry and should have role models to look up to. I hope that as an indigenous female director I can inspire our next generation of storytellers to follow their dreams and pursue more key creative roles in the film industry.”
Keep up with Asia and watch the trailer for Lelum’ at www.asiayoungman.com MARCH 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 25
The Insider
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lot has inspired Sydney Jacobs, originally from the Mohawk reservation of Akwesasne, to create modern children’s brand Ken’niwá:’a. As a child, Jacobs dreamed of accurate representation of Native Americans in media other than Pocahontas. Experiencing anger and grief is also what drove Jacobs to come up with her mission statement for Ken’niwá:’a: to revive, strengthen and evolve kanien’kehaka language and culture, by using design, love, and kindness to create products and projects that support creators, educators, and families. “We’ve been through so much as a people, on a larger scale and a personal one,” Jacobs explains. “While anger is occasionally useful, it’s not the state of healing. There’s a cycle of grief, and after everything, you’re left with, ‘okay, now what?’” After experiencing anger, Jacobs decided to invest her time and energy into something positive. “To invest in children is to invest in the future, that’s why I ultimately chose that demographic. Everything I do is with them in mind.” Jacobs then got to work plotting, sketching, practicing and learning. Later combining her unique interests and various skills she acquired and honed in over the years, she launched what would be the beginnings of Ken’niwá:’a in November 2016. Since Jacobs realized children spent most of their time in school, she launched a recent education initiative for Ken’niwá:’a. “It’s still in the information gathering stage. But I do have a few products I’m getting ready to launch.” Jacobs hopes to have a full catalog ready
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for this upcoming school year, mainly focused on kanien’kehaka territories and dialects to start. Jacobs is busy working on a few projects and releases. She’s working on a spring/summer collection and hopes to showcase it at Toronto Indigenous Fashion Week. “The collection centers around the three sisters, and because I have to make everything into an epic story: In the early summer when the skies are blue, and the earth is rich beneath our feet, the three sisters are still young and green. As the days grow longer Corn grows taller, Bean climbs higher, and Squash fans further along the garden. The importance of the three sisters is beaded, sculpted, and woven into our very history. This collection is a celebration of that legacy, the little ones we care for and how with love and hard work they can grow to sustain nations.” There’s one project that Jacobs can’t give any details. “I’ve had the honor of working with Niio Perkins on a few things, I can’t spill any details but with her being the powerhouse she is, and with enough coffee for me, I’m sure we can take over the world.” According to Jacobs, new prints, new clothing, extended sizes, relaunching archived products alongside new products, books, and more toys are what we can look forward to this summer. “The Ken’niwá:’a product range is just going to grow three-fold this summer and since I got my pre-battle speech memorized, a story to tell, and adequate reserves of caffeine, I’m ready, I and I hope you’re as excited as I am.”
Shop Ken’niwá:’a products at www.kenniwaa.com
PHOTO: COURTESY
How This Mohawk Businesswoman was Inspired by Children
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The Insider
Business
Sisterhood of Native Bosses Starting your business is hard work. But for an indigenous woman, it seems impossible. These fierce indigenous women decided to break away from their careers and start their businesses. Now, they are their own bosses and contribute to the economy, all the while holding their hands out for other indigenous women to follow.
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The Insider Sarah Howes CEO of House of Howes Anishinaabe artist and businesswoman Sarah Agaton Howes is well-known in her community, but not just for her thriving business. She’s also known for helping other Native women, either by mentorship, teaching or getting into shape. When did you decide to start your own business? I started doing custom beadwork and regalia for folks nine years ago when my kids were babies to supplement my family’s income. This grew into teaching moccasinmaking and beading. In 2015, I became an Inspired Natives Collaborator with Eighth Generation. Now as the owner of House of Howes, I’ve been able to broaden my Ojibwe floral design into graphic design for a line of contemporary Ojibwe floral products, including wool blankets, clothing, earrings, and custom art for companies and organizations. This has been lifealtering. Having a website, the skills to use the Adobe programs, and the mentorship of Louie Gong have all changed my business from meeting folks in parking lots with my baggies of earrings to being a designer. I absolutely couldn’t ask for a better journey with my art.
What’s the hardest part of having your own business? What keeps you going? It’s tough to have faith in your skills, relationships, and belief in what’s possible. It took me awhile to grasp what could happen really. The most important part of having a business has been relationships. I love the building of relationships across tribal, regional, and local communities. This can also be exhausting. I live on a small reservation where everyone knows each other. I feel like I need to be “on” all the time and don’t have the anonymity of a larger city. Why is it essential for Native women to help each other and work together? Why do you think that is? As an Anishinaabe person, cultural arts belong to us as a people. None of these cultural arts are mine. Many times people have questioned why I would teach moccasin-making or jingle dress-making as they see it as a threat to my business. Nothing could be further from the truth. We all do better when we all do better. How do you work with Native women in your community? For the past six years, I have been one of the organizers of the KwePack, an Indigenous
PHOTO: IVY VAINIO
Do you enjoy teaching? I also do a lot of teaching moccasin-making, beadwork and about Ojibwe designs. I started this as a necessity,
but it soon became so much more. These “Anishinaabe competencies” as I call them are critical for our healing, our identity, our path forward as Anishinaabe people. There is a moment when people are struggling with making their moccasins where they flip their moccasins right side out. Most of my students don’t have experience making. Their face lights up when they realize they are their grandmothers; they are this beautiful, they are this. I live for that. I love that.
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Women’s Running Group. We mentor, recruit, and support Native women in their wellness goals. We do races, weekly runs, and raise funds to sponsor Native women in our area. I have witnessed over and over the incredible transformative power of a group of Native women who rally for each other. I’ve seen women go from being obese to running ultra-marathons. In your opinion, what are some ways Native women can help each other? Laughter, mentoring and accountability. Sometimes we need to be each other’s mirrors, and sometimes we need to call each other out on our BS, lovingly. I see the role of our generation is to crack open the door to allow other Native folks to go through if they choose. When women are doing better, when women are culturally-healing, the whole family is. Women are the backbone, the base, and the fire. We help each other in ways from caring for each other’s babies to cooking for each other’s ceremonies, from helping bury each other’s loved ones to providing advice and support on our ideas; also buying each other’s products! The intensity of being a part of a Native community encompasses every part of our life, not just business. How do you help other Native women? I bring in other women to learn how to teach moccasin-making. I am working towards a cohort of moccasin teachers across the area. Relationships are everything, both in an Anishinaabe context but also in a business context. I want to bring all these mamas and artists with me to success just like Louie, and other mentors have done. A big part of my role in the community is the teaching, encouragement, and support of folks interested in learning cultural arts such as moccasin-making, regalia-making, sewing, and the KwePack. I spend an incredible amount of time just texting people to encourage them or remind them about opportunities and invitations to events, runs, exhibitions, and almost anyone who knows me would call me a loving stalker. What are your words of encouragement for any Native women who are interested in starting their own business? Follow your heart and your gut. Be genuine and authentic. Listen to our people, even in our sickness there are lessons to be learned. Appreciate and utilize your mentors; they will change your life. Take a risk. Reinvest in yourself and your business. Align yourself with your own beliefs, cultural practices, and art ways; this is where your story grows. PHOTO: COURTESY
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Shop House of Howes accessories, blankets and artwork at eighthgeneration. com!
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Shop LL Designs’ moccs and jewelry at LLDesigns.com!
to upset many in Indian Country, sparking negative comments about my designs, which my moccs “aren’t Indian enough.” I design and sell to all genres of fashion, not just Native American. In order to be a successful company, it’s a must that my moccasin designs are not only traditionally constructed for powwow and regalia purposes, but also have vibrant and unique beadwork that have crossover appeal to interests and styles such as bohemian, vintage, Native, hip-hop, hipster, vibrant, pop, artsy, casual, comfort, tomboy, masculine, chic, music, sophisticated, gypsy, weddings, formal, cultural, the list goes on. As a Native American woman, I cherish my culture and traditions as most of us do, but I’m also an artist, which is expressed through my designs. I genuinely believe that to remain relevant in today’s global business world; Native American businesses have to find ways to merge our traditional culture with the modern world, not only for our immediate success but also for future female entrepreneurs of Indian Country.
Lloree “LL” Dickens CEO of LL Designs Lloree Dickens (Arikara/Hidatsa/White Earth Chippewa) is certainly making a name for herself in the entrepreneurial footwear world with her ready-to-wear moccasins. However, you’d be surprised at the constant struggles and backlash she faces on the daily. Dickens shares her words of encouragement and how you can help Native women succeed. What is LL Designs? My business is a moccasin/footwear company, although we offer other artisan products as well such as jewelry, accessories, and art. The primary focus is moccasins. When did you decide to start your own business? I decided to start my business because I was tired of seeing big corporate footwear companies benefiting and profiting off of the “Native” name and designs; using cheap, synthetic materials and being mass-produced, calling them “Native American-made.” What’s the hardest part of having your own business? What keeps you going? The hardest part of having my own business stems primarily from scalability. Keeping up with the volume of demand and shortening delivery timeframes, while remaining authentically Native-made is the most challenging. All of LL Designs’ moccasins are handmade so inherently; the construction process is more time consuming than those made by machines mass-produced outside of the United States. The business model is both individual and customer-based and wholesale. LL Designs is one of the first footwear companies providing authentic moccasins or “mocc-shoes” in the nation that is Native-owned, Nativemade, and Made in the U.S. Another issue, however, that has surfaced several isn’t necessarily a problem with LL Designs internally, but somewhat externally from fellow Native Americans. To participate and successfully compete in the mainstream footwear industry and not just Indian Country, my moccasin designs are created with both traditional and contemporary customers in mind. Surprisingly, this seems
Why is it essential for Native women to help each other and work together? Why do you think that is? This is an excellent segue from the last question. My educational background is in Psychology. So being a former counselor, I know that self-worth, self-esteem, and identity are vital qualities that help women achieve success in both the professional world and our relationships. Women coming together and supporting each other is empowering, especially amongst Native women. Historically, we Natives have experienced a long history of oppression. I believe, being a Native American woman myself, there is already a psyche of internalized oppression that can sometimes trickle over into all facets of our lives from relationships and friendships to family, work and professional associations. Part of this mentality comes out in forms of competitiveness, comparison, jealousy, lack of self-esteem and self-worth. It’s important for women to encourage each other to pursue their goals because this empowers and helps instill self-worth, confidence, and success. I’m optimistic about the possibility of change in today’s gender gap, especially when it comes to getting more Native women involved in the entrepreneurial world of arts, business and reaching their goals in general. We need more inspired Native women out in the world setting positive examples and showing our young Native American women that they can aspire to be anything they choose. In your opinion, what are some ways Native women can help each other? We often tend to compare ourselves to others. In my opinion, we can help each other by merely embracing each others’ differences, respecting each others’ individuality, while at the same time supporting and being a positive influence on each other. How do you professionally help other Native women? I enjoy providing a platform through my company website, which offers Native artists an opportunity to showcase and sell their work to a broader audience while promoting their creations such as jewelry, moccasins, art, and knitwear. What are your words of encouragement for Native women who are interested in starting their own business? Remain true to yourself, stay passionate and love what you do. Be persistent, dedicated, work hard and don’t give up. Most importantly, surround yourself with people that are going to “life you up,” rather than tear you down. Entrepreneurship is not easy, but it’s worth it.
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The Insider Founder of Tinhorn Consulting When she found herself on the metaphorical cliff, April Tinhorn (Hualapai/Navajo) leaped from leaving her job and starting her own business. Not only does Tinhorn offer valuable advice to Native women, she mentors and makes connections whenever she’s asked. Where did you grow up? I grew up in Peach Springs, AZ, home of the majestic Hualapai Grand Canyon West and Colorado River. If you haven’t experienced our side of the canyon with our newlyopened zipline, skywalk, and river rafting, you are in for a treat. What is your business? When did you decide to start your own business? I’m the founder of Tinhorn Consulting, LLC. Tinhorn Consulting was born at a significant crossroads in my life. Professionally, I had achieved my dream as I was an executive with a corner office, an assistant, was doing meaningful work in Indian Country, but something was missing. In my mind’s eye, I flashed forward and saw myself in my 60’s, comfortable, but still living for the weekends. I stood on the edge of the metaphorical cliff and knew it was now or never. Was I going to start a business? No one’s happiness depended on me. And so I jumped! Tinhorn Consulting was incorporated on September 10, 2010, and I’ve never looked back. What’s the hardest part of having your own business? The best and, often, the hardest part of having my own business is the freedom! I love the freedom to choose the projects we work on and the clients that we partner with. When and where I work has been a game changer as I have not missed a significant milestone in my six-year-old daughter’s life. Why is it essential for Native women to help each other and work together? Why do you think that is? I believe in abundance, not scarcity. When I see another Native woman rise, I cheer her
Loretta Guzman Founder of Bison Coffeehouse Loretta Guzman, from the Shoshone Bannock Tribes of Fort Hall Idaho, is the founder and owner of the well-known Bison Coffeehouse located in Portland, Oregon. But what inspired her to open up Bison Coffeehouse was a tough journey. In 2008, Guzman was diagnosed with stage 4B cancer and with the help of her family and tribe, she underwent aggressive chemotherapy and radiation treatment. According to Guzman,
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on because her success does not take away from you or me. It was meant for her. There is so much goodness in the world that there is plenty for us all. There aren’t that many statistics about Native Americans, much less Native American women. According to http://nativewomenlead.org/, two-thirds of all Native women were the family breadwinners in 2017. Twothirds! For every dollar earned by a white, non-Hispanic male, Native women only earn fifty-seven cents.Women reinvest 90% of our incomes into our families and communities according to https://dreambuilder. org/. When we help our Native sisters, we ultimately are supporting our communities. In your opinion, what are some ways Native women can help each other? Power of the purse! Make deliberate buying decisions. Buy your burritos, jewelry, and marketing services directly from Native women entrepreneurs. How do you personally or professionally help other Native women? I vividly remember the excitement and fear of starting a new business, so I share lessons learned and resources through my company’s blog, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts. I help other Native women through my training, workshops, volunteerism, referrals, and mentoring efforts. If someone reaches out, I try to help or at least connect them with someone who can. What are your words of encouragement for any Native women who are interested in maybe starting their own business? Seek mentorship and support. Look for resources and peers in the same field. Mentors are willing to help and funders interested in your ideas. Find them. Ask the person who is where you want to be to become your mentor. Respect yourself and others. You are your brand, especially in Indian Country where we are all connected, be intentional in everything you do. Lastly, give back. Just as you needed help, there are others like you needing advice and support.
TINHORN: KARIANNE MUNSTEDT; GUZMAN: COLLIN GABRIEL
! For more biz tips and advice, visit tinhorn-consulting.com!
April Tinhorn
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The Insider as she could feel herself dying, she had a dream of a huge bison approaching her. In the dream, she approached him until they were face to face, staring at each other. Her stepfather told her this dream meant she would get better. Guzman eventually went into remission. A year later, Guzman returned to Portland in 2009 and continued to manage a café while going to school. She then dreamt of opening her own coffeehouse for two years, one that would reflect who she was and her Native heritage in a positive way. Finally, in late 2014, she opened Bison Coffeehouse in Portland. The artwork in the coffeehouse represents Native artists from across Indian Country, giving local and visiting Natives a place they can identify with. Guzman also opens up her coffeehouse to artists and performers who need a place to display their talents free of charge. Why is it essential for Native women to help each other and work together? Why do you think that is? It is essential for us as Native women to help each other and work together because when we come together, we are stronger and can overcome and succeed. Also, we understand each other. In my opinion how Native women can help each other is listening to each other, helping where we can or when we can and giving that extra support in those areas. How do you help other Native women, professionally or personally? How I personally and professionally help other Native women is I keep my doors open for them. I’ve also opened my doors to other Natives to do poetry readings and shows to display their art. I do not charge them as I know we’re all trying to reach bigger goals. And if me opening my doors can help them, I just do it. What are your words of encouragement for any Native women who are interested in starting their own business? My words of encouragement for other Native women who are interested in starting their own business is we all have a purpose, and we must push forward and overcome as we are resilient and are more than we are viewed in life. PHOTO: COURTESY
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Keep up with Loretta by following @BisonCoffeehouse on IG!
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Jessica Dumas Founder of Jessica Dumas Coaching & Training Entrepreneur Jessica Dumas, Ojibwe from Keeseekoowenin First Nation, took a risk when she chose leaving her safe career for being her boss. She explains to us how she made that decision, and how Native women can start their businesses. Where did you grow up? I am of the third generation of my family to grow up off of the reserve in Winnipeg, Manitoba. What is your business? When did you decide to start your own business? My business is Jessica Dumas Coaching & Training, and I am a lifestyle coach that aims to create clarity in chaos situations through positive energy and a facilitator that advances the knowledge of Indigenous history in Canada and the relationship with the government, among several other things. To tell you about how I started, I should share with you how I began coaching people to maintain a life full of vitality and energy while making transitions to the next level of business, success, love, and life. It started when in 2012, I had to abruptly make a career change for my mental health and safety, and I was leaving a position where I had built a good reputation and vast network. After being depressed and no luck finding work for quite some time, I felt a strong calling to be an independent entrepreneur. I started off as a contractor, selling my services and skills, by-the-hour planning events, practicing website and online capabilities, ghostwriting and social media behind-the-scenes, and even managed a few short-term projects. I was self-employed sometimes, and eventually, it became full-time. Today, I love my life. I coach women to strengthen leadership and public speaking skills, build confidence and create balance in their lives, all from the practices and techniques that I’ve learned along the way, by talking to elders, counselors, career mentors, life coaches, therapists, and even psychics! I had to believe in myself and use all of my skills to let go of my fears, and become a public speaker and a lifestyle coach. What’s the hardest part of having your own business? What keeps you going? The hardest part of having my own business is doing everything that I want to do while getting everything done that I need to get done, like the paperwork and appropriate financial affairs. What keeps me going is that I utilize ‘Mastermind’ networks and, most of all, spend time keeping myself and my spirit open by journaling, visualizing and meditating. It’s helped me make amazing
things happen in my life. It keeps me calm when things are wild. Why is it essential for Native women to help each other and work together? Why do you think that is? Native women are the life-givers of the most marginalized population in North America. It is essential for us to collaborate and support each other, the way our ancestors did because this is how our nations demonstrated how we continue to remain strong after years and years of oppression. Women, being the heart and leaders of our families, continue to make significant breakthroughs in our economies and our communities. Although Native women are more likely to face violence than non-Native women, and Native women continue to make these strides.
opportunities. I sit in systems where I am always recruiting Native women to join me and expand their experience, and I host a women’s leadership network Empowering and Law of Attraction group. I listen to women when they need a boost, share empowering posts on my Instagram and Facebook pages to encourage, and acknowledge the likeness of our lives to each other. And always, I help with interview skills, resumes, cover letters and job search, often, for free.
What are your words of encouragement for any Native women who are interested in maybe starting their own business? We try to do it alone, but we can’t, and we shouldn’t do it alone. Create a team and a network that is supportive to you on your journey, and when possible, In your opinion, what are some ways work with a coach or mentor! You have Native women can help each other? to surround yourself with like-minded The simplest way we can help each people; if you don’t know them yet, other is listening. I think as women, make a list of a few people that you naturally we like to talk with each other, admire and befriend them! but never underestimate the power If it is your dream, everything you and the love that listening provides to need is within you to make it happen. someone. Listening and offering a hand, If it feels right, then it is right. You advice when needed and always with no only live once and you can’t miss an judgment, and offering only acceptance. opportunity. If it is meant to be, the opportunity will continue to come back How do you professionally help Native again and again, until you are 100% women? ready. When the time is right, you will I often provide my services at little or make the leap. Again and again. no cost to those who are unable to For more inspo quotes, like afford it. I use the networks I have made Jessica on FB at facebook.com/ to make connections for employment jessicadumascoaching
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Cover Story
A Day in the Beautiful Life
Bethany Yellowtail Bethany Yellowtail’s success has been on the rise since first launching her company, B.Yellowtail. And it’s not just Bethany on the way to the top; she’s taking her squad, Native sisterhood, B.Yellowtail Collective artists and followers with her. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOEY MONTOYA WORD BY KELLY HOLMES
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he needs no introduction. You ask anyone in Indian Country whose designs they’d love to wear. “Bethany Yellowtail.” You ask anyone in Indian Country who they most admire. “Bethany Yellowtail.” You ask anyone who they follow the most on social media. “Bethany Yellowtail.” But it’s her story of bravery, resiliency, and love that draws interest to her. Breaking into the fashion industry is no easy feat, especially when you’re a Native woman living on a cattle ranch in southeastern Montana. And she did it. Yellowtail has been interested in fashion since she was a little girl. She grew up on the Crow and Northern Cheyenne reservations in southeastern Montana, where she learned to sew from her grandmother, and learned of making powwow shawls from her aunt. From there, she made her clothes during home-ec class in high school. She admits that there weren’t a lot of opportunities or positive outlets for Native youth. So when she said she wanted to be a fashion designer, everyone gave her the side eye. Then in 2007, 18-year-old Yellowtail left the rez and enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in downtown Los Angeles, California. When asked what it felt like relocating to L.A., she answered, “I felt so out of place, I almost left.” She adds, “Instead I threw myself into my studies.” Yellowtail recounts her arduous journey, which began with living on no money or sleep. She worked at a coffee shop for a year while taking unpaid internships. Three years later in 2010, Yellowtail landed a temp job at BCBG as an assistant patternmaker. She admitted that working for brands like BCBG was a dream come true, as she wore labels like BCBG growing up. Four years later, she decided that it was time to break out on her own. “There isn’t a brand that I truly identify with except for what I do.” Thus, B.Yellowtail was born. Yellowtail has accomplished so much in the past few years with B.Yellowtail.
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Her brand is known for combining Northern Cheyenne and Crow roots with modern silhouettes: silk wrap dresses printed with elk teeth, which are inspired by traditional regalia; flowy blouses and tank tops adorning tribal patterns. In 2016, B.Yellowtail launched B.Yellowtail Collective, a movement in which her company partners with Native American artists who create jewelry, purses, and star quilt blankets and sells their pieces on her website. This is an effort on Yellowtail’s part to give them a platform in an industry that takes their aesthetic and business. “That’s not okay,” she says. “One of the best things about what I do is that I get to share our platform with other creatives and discover the hidden gems in our community.” Yellowtail’s latest release, “SLAY Part 1”, lit social media on fire. The collection, which Yellowtail collaborated with graphic artist Kimberly Robertson with, features a cropped hoodie and bag with “SLAY colonial, white supremacist, heteropatriarchal bullsh*t” on the front. A significant milestone for B.Yellowtail happened just a few weeks ago when B.Yellowtail announced a capsule collection release with The Land of Nod, the children’s division of home furnishings/design retailer Crate & Barrel. Yellowtail admitted it marked a considerable achievement in the direction of portraying contemporary Native art and design in the fashion industry. “We are finally getting the opportunity to direct the design narrative of our own stories, and being able to bring that to the mainstream retail world is beyond exciting,” she says. The collaboration highlights the Native traditions of celebrating new babies and children with items of cultural and spiritual importance. Items in the capsule collection include wall art, baby apparel, baby blankets, area rugs and traditional stuffed toys. Today, Yellowtail has garnered a loyal following with hundreds of thousands of social media followers and looks having been worn by big-name celebrities such as Shailene Woodley and America Ferrera. Her pieces sell out as soon as she drops a collection and finds herself featured in mainstream media, like Today.com and People.com. All the success she has so far has inspired Yellowtail to change her goal for her company. Instead of wanting to sell her designs in department stores, Yellowtail now wants to open up a manufacturing company in her homelands so she can employ her people. There may have been Native American fashion pioneers before her, but Yellowtail is pioneering her path, her way. Relaxed on a white leather couch in the middle of her vibrant studio in downtown L.A., she recalls the hard journey it’s been getting to where she is. “To be honest, sometimes I’ve been afraid to take on the fashion industry in the way I have. It’s a large undertaking, and there is no roadmap for an indigenous brand to succeed while creating real impact. The things I dream of doing, have never been done before, and I acknowledge that I can not do it alone.” But she also remembers the women who support her. “I feel very blessed to have a stronghold of Native women in my life. Through my work and the extended network of Indian country, I always find sisters along the way who rally behind me when I need it most.” And that’s one thing you need to know about Yellowtail. She’s all about her Native sisters. “Women like Kim Smith, Chelsea Luger, Kahara Hodges,
Chrissie Castro, and Jaclyn Roessel are pure magic. I could go on for days about how much love I have for Native women. We are the backbone of our communities, and we need one another.” Yellowtail not only collaborates with Native women artists with her company but she also frequently travels back to her reservation to teach sewing classes. The Native Max cover star reflects on working with Native women and why it’s important to help each other arise and thrive. NATIVE MAX: Let’s start with your team. Who makes up your B.Yellowtail squad? How do you all help each other? BETHANY YELLOWTAIL: The full-time B.Yellowtail team is comprised of myself and my business partner Kim Meraz plus our intern Maya Ditloff (Blackfeet). Kim Meraz is my rock and my secret weapon, she’s been with me since B.Yellowtail launched. Kim’s an incredible business savvy powerhouse and is one of the main reasons for the success of our brand. Not only is Kim brilliant in business, but she's also the epitome of a phenomenal woman. She is mom goals, wife goals, style goals, friend goals, and beyond. I’ve learned so much from her in the 3 ½ years since we began and she has helped shaped me into the woman I am today. She puts a mirror up to me and has helped me see the good, the bad and the ugly so that I can dive in deep and become the best version of myself and create the best. Maya is a fantastic addition to our team. She’s a student at UCLA majoring in film. Without a doubt, she will be a powerhouse filmmaker. She’s brilliant and goes above and beyond for us.
“It doesn’t matter where you come from, and you deserve to dream and have the same opportunities as anyone else. You are allowed. Say it out loud and permit yourself. Be fearless! You are capable!”
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NATIVE MAX: You were selected for our Native Women’s issue, which highlights and focuses on Native women helping each other thrive and succeed. Are there any Native women who helped you succeed that you’d like to recognize? Or any that inspire you? BY: Absolutely. First I would like to acknowledge the women who’ve raised me and who keep me grounded. My mother Lena, my aunties, my grandmothers, my big sister Jamie, and many other women like Dewanda, La Rena, Gina, Tazbah, Drelynn, Shailene, and Kiela, who’ve shown up for me in very crucial times of my life. Although I’ve been away from home for almost ten years now, I have an incredible support system, and even when I am by myself, I am never alone. In fact, much of my inspiration and motivation comes from the women in our communities. The ones who do the hard work without recognition, who stand on the frontlines to defend our homelands, fight for policy change in a system that was not made for us, and the ones who are healing our communities by healing themselves. NATIVE MAX: How do you collaborate with other Native women with B.Yellowtail? BY: Every season we collaborate with Native artists, especially other Native women. Tazbah Rose Chavez is a brilliant artist and poet who’s been our
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creative director for many of the fashion videos and branded content we’ve released. She can articulate female indigenous intelligence in a way no one else can. She’s helped elevate our brand most beautifully. NATIVE MAX: What does a day in your life look like? BY: Each day is entirely different depending on where I am in the design or production process of my collections. This week, I was in the full-on creative mode with our newest collaborator, and we came up with the theme for the next season. Some days I’ll be running back and forth from my office to our manufacturer checking on the process, or I’ll be on my computer all day responding to emails and requests. But from the time I wake up to the time I go to bed, two things never change: I pray every single day, and I drink a cup of good fancy coffee; sometimes 2 or 3. NATIVE MAX: What’s your agenda looking like this month? BY: Next month, I’ll be back home teaching a sewing workshop on my Rez then immediately after I’ll fly to
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Seattle to deliver a keynote speech. NATIVE MAX: You have so many fans around the country, especially fellow Native American fashion designers who look up to you. Are you a fan of any other fellow Native American fashion designers? BY: Yes! There is so much creative brilliance in Indian Country, and we have twenty of them who sell on our site, and I am a major fan of each of them. Of course, I’m also a major fan of designers like Jamie Okuma, Maya Stewart, and streetwear brands like Section 35 and OXDX. NATIVE MAX: You are a very inspirational person. What is your advice to a young Native girl reading this?
A Day in the Beautiful Life: While the Native Max team arrived to Bethany’s studio office in downtown L.A. for the photoshoot and interview, she was fitting Native actress Irene Bedard. “She came to our office to try on dresses for the world premiere of ‘A Wrinkle in Time’,” said Bethany. “She was invited to attend the premiere by director Ava Duvernay, and she contacted us to style her for the event. I have been a fan of hers since I was a little girl and it was a dream come to true to see Madame President in B.Yellowtail!”
BY: “It doesn’t matter where you come from, and you deserve to dream and have the same opportunities as anyone else. You are allowed.” For me, it took that simple phrase from a stranger to change my life and the way I subconsciously held myself back. Say it out loud and permit yourself. Be fearless! You are capable!
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Native Women Arise For decades, indigenous women across Turtle Island have been moving forward, breaking barriers and exceeding expectations for the betterment of Indian Country. However, now is the time that indigenous women come together as one and arise. These indigenous women not only encourage and empower other Native women, but they work together to help one another rise.
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Sharice Davids Tribe: Ho-Chunk @ShariceforCongress Once helped tribes with economic development and is now running for Congress
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harice Davids went from living and working on reservations to help tribes create economic development opportunities and speaking at conferences to running for a seat as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. When elected, Davids will be Kansas’ first openly-gay Representative and the nation’s first Native American woman member of Congress. Davids admits she has a great privilege to encourage other Native women. “I have had the opportunity to mentor others, specifically in the law profession,” she explains. “And I am especially proud of the women I have worked with as they applied to colleges and universities. We as a community will rise together as we lift each other up.” PHOTO: COURTESY
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Davids’ words of encouragement to Native women: “Live your truth. You have so much to offer the world, and we have a responsibility to our communities to use our gifts and talents. Don’t shy away from that. Embrace it and take advantage of that opportunity.”
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Alyssa London I
Tribe: Tlingit @AlyssaLondon Former Miss Alaska and first Tlingit woman to be in the top 10 of the Miss USA pageant
t’s been years in the making since Alyssa London set out to inspire and empower others. An enrolled member of the Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska and is of the Eagle moiety and Killerwhale clan, she participated in her first pageant when she was only 17 years old, where she wore a traditional Tlingit robe. She’s a successful media personality and an entrepreneur whose goal is to promote Native-owned businesses. London also knew it’d take hard work and determination to get to the pageant, which didn’t deter her at all. London saw the Miss Alaska pageant as a platform to make a difference, who used her time in the spotlight to bring attention to a little part of her home community.
PHOTO: COURTESY
London’s words of encouragement to Native women: “Your dreams are never as far out of reach as they seem. Have courage and go towards them with all you got.”
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Ali Joseph Tribe: Shinnecock @ allitwotribes Multimedia Mama who is working in mainstream media
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n case you don’t know, Alli Joseph is a seasoned on-air host who can be seen hosting Salon.com’s show Salon Talks. A self-professed “City Indian,” she is a child of two worlds: school years in Manhattan, summers and holidays on the Shinnecock reservation with her grandmother. Joseph noticed the lack of indigenous representation in newsrooms across the country. This inspired her to work in media, advocating for minority journalists’ entrepreneurship and career developments to this day. Joseph developed her journalism, branding and marketing skills by working for large media corporations such as NBC Universal, Viacom, AOL, and more. As a reporter and host, Joseph worked across TV, digital and print realms covering entertainment, entrepreneurship, lifestyle, news, tech, and innovation. PHOTO: COURTESY
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Joseph’s words of encouragement to Native women: “Believe in yourself. Look for mentors first in your community strong women who will support you in your dreams, and push you when you want to give up on what may seem unattainable at times. Confront your fears like they are real things, and overpower them.”
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Shaina Clifford
Sonyah Clifford
Arielle Clifford
Clifford Sisters Tribe: Oglala Lakota @shainacliffordlifestyle / @arielleclifford Talented sisters who are using their talents to help inspire Native American women
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PHOTO: COURTESY
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he Clifford sisters are not only beautiful; they’re also intelligent and go-getters. All born and raised on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota, rodeo blood runs in their veins they’re all successful in their respective fields. Shaina Clifford is a selfprofessed rodeo mom and successfully operates two businesses. Sonyah Clifford is a former Miss Indian Rodeo and Miss Rodeo South Dakota and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing from Black Hills State University. Sonyah’s platform during her reign as Miss Rodeo South Dakota was promoting self-confidence in Native American girls. Arielle Clifford graduated from her high school with the most top credits to graduate from her high school ever. She is currently studying at Chadron State College for a bachelor’s in science with a minor in Veterinary Medicine on the Pre-Veterinary track. Arielle’s ultimate goal is to open the first equine clinic on the Pine Ridge reservation.
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On Radar
Lyla June In this month’s Artist Profile, we spoke with internationally-renowned public speaker, poet, hip-hop artist and acoustic singer-songwriter Lyla June. PHOTO: COURTESY
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BY DAVID ASHDOWN
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On Radar
Lyla June is a nationally and internationally-renowned public speaker, poet, hip-hop artist and acoustic singer-songwriter of Diné (Navajo) and Tsétsêhéstâhese (Cheyenne) lineages. Her music and message centers around intergenerational and inter-ethnic healing, as well as an articulation of Indigenous Philosophy. Her life story of addiction, abuse, discrimination and eventually overcoming these battles gives her a compelling vantage point from which to share a message of love, unification, and healing. Lyla’s vital, vibrant stage presence and ability to convey paths forward for indigenous liberation have brought her to universities, school assemblies, conferences, music festivals, and community centers across the United States and over ten nations around the world.
What artists or songs got through to you early on and how did their music, vibe, and lyrics influence you and your outlook on your place in the world? The Beatles were a massive influence growing up. My father was born in 1954, so he brought a lot of his music from the 60s and 70s into my life. When I picked up the guitar, the first songs I started to learn were Beatles songs, and I think that continues to influence my song structures today. Other influences from all different genres included System of a Down, Lauryn Hill, Shania Twain (I know... funny right?), Blackalicious, Rage Against the Machine, India.Arie, The Glitch Mob, Led Zeppelin, Ulali, and others. These artists showed me that music is a powerful launchpad for bringing joy, inspiration, hope, education, and unification to the oppressed. None of these artists were Native American because it seemed at the time there weren’t a lot of Native American role models in the music world for me. There was Buffy Saint Marie but I never really got into her music. I and some others are trying very hard to generate a new genre of Indigenous music that inspires the youth. You have a track record for winning poetry jams at a statewide, and national level, when did music become an extension of your drive to share your message? I was always a writer. I remember reading poetry in public places as early as 4th grade. I remember
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winning writing competitions that early as well, for whatever that’s worth. When I stumbled upon spoken word at age 14, I was an instant fanatic. I traveled all over the world in my teens performing spoken word. I also started picking up the guitar in earnest at that point. So my poetry and my music development started around the same age, but I was slower to become a decent musician, whereas writing and speaking came more naturally. I didn’t feel confident in my music enough until very recently, perhaps five years ago, to include it in my public performances. But since then, it has come to be as appreciated as much as my poetry is. What was your musical life like while at Stanford? I think that a lot of the drug addiction and sexual abuse I was experiencing in high school and at Stanford muted my musical confidence. I didn’t feel worthy as a woman to do much of anything because I felt like a bad person. I didn’t realize that just because bad things were happening to me, didn’t mean I was bad. But because of that, I was very creatively stunted for a long time. It was until my junior year of Stanford that I started to heal from the rape, get sober and pick up my guitar again. At that point, the songs started flowing through me all the time. I didn’t feel comfortable releasing them at that point, but now I do! How does the songwriting process work for you and what does it take for you to feel a song is finished and ready to be performed or recorded? Everything is in prayer. Like my ancestors, I treat life like a ceremony. So first thing I do, unless I’m being rushed and careless, is I pray. Maybe go outside and offer some corn pollen to the earth and ask her to give me some good words. One of my mentors has a prayer that he says every morning: “May you help me help at least one person today.” That is a wonderful prayer for me. So I pray that with each song it can help at least one person. I don’t have a real unreachable standard for when a song is finished. I try to be laid back and allow a song to go out even if it’s not perfect. I used to do that, and I would never publish
anything because it wasn’t flawless. Now I kind of rest in my imperfection and do my best and be happy with that. I’m often pleasantly surprised with what “my best” ends up being. In a way what you’re doing harkens back to the late 60’s folk-rock peace movement. Do you feel any affinity with those artists and their music today? I feel very connected to this movement, even though there aren’t a lot of highly visible Native American’s in that movement. I feel like also though it was mainly a White movement, it still had some very good messages and was trying hard to generate a new way of seeing things. I pray to further that movement by grounding it in Indigenous rights. I feel that before this country can have peace, it must contend with its “original sin”: the fact that this country is founded on the genocide of Indigenous Peoples. Until we give lands back to what little Native people are left, and until we make serious efforts to uplift these communities on their terms, then we will always be a farce of justice. What do you do to get in the right headspace before playing (or speaking) to an audience? Do you have a day-of-show ritual? Again, prayer is the first thing I do. One of our old songs says, “Great Mystery, first I pray to you. Because of this, I will live well with my people.” This song reminds me that prayer is the first step in any process. I used to say a little mantra I’d say to myself before stepping in front of hundreds and sometimes thousands of people. I would say, “I am always confident, calm, humble and strong before I speak to the people because I know I carry a message of truth, love, healing, and peace.” I would say that all the time. But now I think it’s woven into my being, so it is understood without being spoken.
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Lyla June often travels for speaking gigs, performances and more. Check out her Facebook page (facebook.com/ lylajune) or official website (www.sodizin.net) to keep up with her!
PHOTOS: COURTESY
What role did music play in your upbringing in the Diné tradition? In the Diné language (Diné Bizaad) Hataałii means both “singer” and “doctor.” Also, in our language, Sodizin means both “song” and “prayer.” So in my upbringing, music was all about sincere intention to make the world a better place. Music was seen as a healer and singers were viewed as doctors. I was born into a world of struggle, as Native Americans continue to live in post-war conditions after the Native American holocaust. There’s a lot of work to do to improve our communities. I was raised by strong people to live my life deliberately and to view every one of my creations as an opportunity to heal my people, all people.
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On Radar
March Reading List
Heart Berries by Terese Marie Mailhot Heart Berries (Counterpoint Press) is a powerful, poetic memoir of a woman’s coming of age on the Seabird Island Indian Reservation in the Pacific Northwest. Having survived a profoundly dysfunctional upbringing only to find herself hospitalized and facing a dual diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Bipolar II; Terese Marie Mailhot is given a notebook and begins to write her way out of trauma. The triumphant result is Heart Berries, a memorial for Mailhot’s mother, a social worker and activist who had a thing for prisoners; a story of reconciliation with her father—an abusive drunk and a brilliant artist—who was murdered under mysterious circumstances; and an elegy on how difficult it is to love someone while dragging the long shadows of shame.
Award-winning and highly-talked about books by extraordinary Native American and First Nations female authors make up this month’s reading list.
$23; counterpointpress.com/dd-product/ heart-berries/
After the Fall by Kate Hart 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 heavyhitting 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.
Why Storms Are Named After People But Bullets Remain Nameless by Tanaya Winder In her debut collection of poems Words Like Love released several years ago, poet Tanaya Winder (Southern Ute, Duckwater Shoshone, and Pyramid Lake Paiute Nations) sang the joys, glories, and laments of love in her emotional and thoughtfully rendered poems. Her voice traverses the darkness in a quest to learn more about the most complex of subjects. Words Like Love received praise and notoriety all around the world, which is no surprise that Winder published a second collection of poems. Why Storms Are Named After People But Bullets Remain Nameless is her second collection of poems that leave readers stunned yet inspired.
$7.40; katehart.net PHOTOS: COURTESY OF RESPECTIVE PUBLISHERS
$10; tanayawinder.com/store/
Pet’a Shows Misun the Light by Jessie Taken Alive-Rencountre “Why do people do hurtful things to others?” This is the question that Misun is struggling to find an answer to when a mysterious stranger takes him on a life-changing journey that will help him understand compassion and realize the ability that all of us have to change the world. $14.95; mascotbooks.com
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Until Later Illustration by Crystal Starr / @north_starr_studios
A lot can happen when indigenous women arise, come together and work side by side.
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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
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