
During the month of February, the media does a respectable job programming content for African-American History Month. However, during November, Native American Heritage month doesn't receive its fair share of attention. Until a year ago, I didn't even know it existed!
As I speak with members of the Native community, the excitement and hope is evident as they revitalize their culture and overcome the adversity presented by historical injustices. The next generation’s well-being is at the heart of most revitalization initiatives, whether it's land preservation, healthy living, language revitalization, or artistic development. Here at NATIVE(X), we’re honored to be a part of this movement with our sponsored art classes. However, the community still struggles with being stereotyped. November gives the Native community more of an opportunity to educate and tell their story. To assist with these efforts, I interviewed five influencers from the design, artist, and blogger communities. As respected (and opinionated) members in their field, each interviewee will give their thoughts on the potential of Heritage Month, raising awareness around Native culture, and developing the next generation of Native influencers. I will be posting these interviews each week during the month of November. Stay tuned and subscribe to our blog (email signup in the right column -->) for access to the interviews.

Week 1: Shaun Peterson-Puyallup Artist and owner of Qwalsius Studios

Week 2: Jessica Metcalfe-Turtle Mountain Chippewa Fashion Blogger and owner of Beyond Buckskin Boutique
Week 3: Victor Pascual-Navajo Graphic Designer and owner of Digital Navajo
Week 4: Making moves in their 20s. Dustin Martin-Navajo Artist and Co-Founder of S.O.L.O, Whitney Minthorn-Umatilla, Walla Walla, Cayuse, & Nez Perce Photographer and owner of Minthorn Photograhy
Sincerely,
Mac




[...] fashion blog empire. Each week during the month of November, you can read these interviews on the NATIVE(X) blog. (Part two of a six part [...]
[...] As part of our mission to build a platform for Natives to share their story, we spoke with five influencers in the design, art, and blogger community to build awareness around Native American Heritage Month. It gives us a chance to highlight the diverse culture and resilience of the first inhabitants of the land we now reside on. The interviews focus on the potential of Heritage Month, educating the greater public about Native culture, and developing the next generation of Native influencers. Each week during the month of November, you can read these interviews on theNATIVE(X) site. [...]
[...] is heading. Each week during the month of November, you can read these interviews on the NATIVE(X) blog. (Part three of a six part [...]
[...] take his photography. Each week during the month of November, you can read these interviews on the NATIVE(X) blog. (Part four of a six part [...]