I will never have this version of me again. Let me slow down and be with her
— Rupi Kaur
 
 

Ya' teeh. Shi' i yinishe' Erin Tapahe. (Hello. My name is Erin Tapahe) I am Diné (Navajo). When I was growing up, I struggled with non-natives telling me that I would never be "like" them. I have spent my life proving I am just as capable and I fulfilled my dreams to surpass those expectations. My dream is to share Indigenous stories about the struggles and triumphs of Native people.

 

I am originally from Window Rock, Arizona, which is on the Navajo reservation. I treasure my Navajo culture and am grateful for the traditional customs of my ancestors. Recently, I have understood the importance of learning the Navajo language and now I speak it moderately. Learning the beauty of my culture, I understand the sacrifices that my ancestors made and their strength inspires me to continue their legacy.