Native Max Magazine February 2018

BLACKFOOT DEMI-GOD

EUGENE BRAVE ROCK MEET THE ACTOR WHO IS USING HIS PLATFORM TO SHARE HIS CULTURE

Special Feature

What Native Hope Looks Like The Next Generation of Native Americans are Rising & Reclaiming their Identity & Dignity

& Fashion x Culture

Culture Meets Collaborative Creativity PLUS Catching Up with

Mic Jordan

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FEBRUARY 2018 | NATIVE MAX MAGAZINE 1

THE LOVE ISSUE: DEDICATED TO HIGHLIGHTING LOVE THAT SURROUNDS US

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Contents February 2018

Welcome to the Issue 003

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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BEHIND THE COVER

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MASTHEAD

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GUEST LIST

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EDITOR’S WELCOME

check out what’s in this month’s issue we take you BTS at our cover shoot

who’s all on our team

this is who all helped us put together this issue

Welcome to the issue dedicated to love

The Edge 011

CULTURE MEETS COLLABORATIVE CREATIVITY

These ladies fuse together baskets & beads

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FASHION STORY: WORKING WITH FUR WITH CHRISTY RUBY Working with fur is survival for Christy Ruby

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STYLE PROFILE: NORMA BAKER-FLYING HORSE This artist’s work is in high demand right now

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URBAN REZ WITH VOSQ CLOTHING Vosq Clothing Co. shows us their latest collection

The Insider 021

WHAT NATIVE HOPE LOOKS LIKE

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LOVE FOR BUSINESS

the next generation of Native Americans are rising and reclaiming their identity and dignity this family share their love for business and eachother

Features 026

EUGENE BRAVE ROCK: ACTOR & STORYTELLER

meet the actor who is using his platform to share his culture and stories

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MY LOVE

these Native Americans share with us who and what they love

On Radar 039

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ARTIST PROFILE: MIC JORDAN

this hip hop artist has overcome so much and he’s not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve

Behind the Issue

For more BTS photos and video from the Feb cover shoot, head over to NATIVEMAX.COM

Roaming the Rhyming Hills of San Fran: Behind the Scenes of our Feb issue Cover Shoot with Eugene Brave Rock It’s indeed been awhile since we put together our photoshoot for the cover of an issue. Usually, we ask our cover person to submit photos that’d be great enough to grace the cover, including the photographer’s consent and credit.

Coordinating and executing a photoshoot for the cover is a tough task. Once we select our cover model, we’d have to locate a photographer who’d be interested in doing the shoot. From there we’d have to connect with assistants, stylists, designers for wardrobe and whoever else can assist with making the shoot a success. This takes time to coordinate.

For the February issue cover, while brainstorming the upcoming few issues, we looked at up-andcoming Native Americans who’d be an inspiration to our readers, yet able to help be a sort of ambassador for Native Max. Blackfoot actor and flutist Eugene Brave Rock came to mind, mainly since he wasn’t featured on an indigenous-publication cover yet. We reached out to Eugene on Twitter with the idea, and from there we coordinated his photoshoot.

We were lucky and fortunate to have San Francisco-based Lipan Apache entrepreneur and owner of Native Urban Era Joey Montoya join our team as the photographer and videographer for the shoot. Joey happily suggested and coordinated the shoot locations and times for Eugene.

The shoot took place at various locations throughout the city, such as Mt. Davidson, Crissy Field, and Torpedo Wharf. In the photos, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge as well as the San Fran’s cityscape.

The shoot was a fantastic success, and the photos came out beautiful! Check out the BTS Video and pictures from the shoot online at nativemax.com.

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Eugene’s wardrobe for the shoot was by Canadian designer Chloe Angus. Not only has he worn his tuxedo –which features Haida designs on the lapel– on the our front cover, he also wore it on the red carpet premiere of Wonder Woman

One of our team members does makeup touch ups on Eugene

The group, which consisted of two Native Max team members, photographer Joey, Eugene and his son, trekked across a part of the city of San Fran to different iconic locations for the shoot

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Guest list

JOEY MONTOYA (“Eugene Braverock”, page 26), photography

KELLY HOLMES Founder + Editor-in-Chief @kellycamilleholmes

Joey Montoya is Lipan Apache from Texas, but was born and raised in San Francisco, CA. He started his own company, Urban Native Era (UNE), at the young age of 19. UNE focuses on reclaiming who we are as Indigenous people of the 21st century by showing and bringing awareness not only on our culture, but issues that our Indigenous people are still facing today. He recently graduated from San Jose State University with a BS in Advertising. Now, 24, he works on uplifting Indigenous youth and issues through activism, art, and Urban Native Era. A fun fact about Joey: he manages hip hop artist Rudy Kalma.

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

LAURIE GARDNER (“Culture Meets Collaborative Creativity”, page 11, first photo in the feature) Laurie Gardner is a photographer and graphic designer based out of New York.

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.

(“My Love”, page 34, photography) Viki Eagle is a member of the Sicangu Lakota Nation from her father, and is also half Japanese from her mother. She graduated with an MA from the University of Denver and currently working on her doctoral degree at DU where she created her own photography project titled “Real Life Indian” (2011). The goal of Real Life Indian is to decolonize the image of the Indian within ourselves and embrace stories across Indian Country from individuals from all tribal nations.

Conscious of the low numbers of Native American students enrolled in higher education she created a project to showcase the many Native students that are attending college.

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Editor's Welcome Just a kid from the Blood reserve: We had the honor of featuring Blackfoot actor Eugene Brave Rock, who starred in Wonder Woman.

We partnered with amazing organization Native Hope for our story “What Native Hope Looks Like”.

We asked Native Max readers and a few team members to share with us what and who they love, and why.

Love is all around us.

I

t’s easy to forget what love is. No, really!

As I trek through my days, I can’t help but notice, both in-person and online, others complaining about the lack of love in their lives. Seeing this inspired me to dedicate our February issue to Love.

We were fortunate enough to feature those who are doing what they love every day. For ‘The Edge,’ we featured Carrie Hill and Tobi Mitchell, two Mohawk artists who not only love their culture but love stepping out of their comfort zone by creating beaded, basket medallions. We talked to Tlingit fur hunter and artist Christy Ruby whose love for her culture and roots shine through her fur products she creates.

We open up the ‘The Insider’ section with a collaborative article with Native Hope about the next generation of proud Native Americans rising and reclaiming their identity, their heritage, their pride, and their dignity. We met with the Pearman family in our “Love for Business” story where they shared their love for each other and their thriving business.

For the ‘On Radar’ section opening, we talked to hip-hop artist Mic Jordan who isn’t afraid to admit he wears his heart on his sleeve when it comes to his music.

Another feature I was excited about was

‘My Love’ where we documented a few Native Americans as they shared what and who they love (including me!). The answers were so diverse and showed us that you could find love in anything and anyone in your life.

Lastly, I had the honor of interviewing Blackfoot actor Eugene Brave Rock (you may recognize him from Wonder Woman). I sensed his love for his culture, his language, and his people when I interviewed him. He brought a piece of his culture and roots with him to the big screen, unlike anything before.

Reflecting on all of the stories I heard, I want to remind you that love isn’t just the butterfliesin-your-stomach type of feeling. You can find love in one’s culture, traditions, beliefs, and language.

It can be what you’re passionate about, whether it’s fashion, art, music or acting. Love is also inspiring those around you to do better. Love is listening to someone. And don’t forget to love yourself: your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual -self. Enjoy the issue!

“I want to remind you that love isn’t just the butterflies-in-yourstomach type of feeling.

You can find love in one’s culture, traditions, beliefs, and language.”

Kelly Holmes Founder + Editor-in-Chief

@kellycamilleholmes @kellycamilleholmes @kellzholmes

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Dream Warriors is a collective of artists who believe in pursuing passions, dreams, and gifts to better loved ones and communities while also uplifting others.

Meet Our Dream Warriors:

/dreamwarriorsmgmt/

@_Dream_Warriors

www.dreamwarriors.co

The Edge PLUS: FASHION STORY: WORKING WITH FUR WITH CHRISTY RUBY STYLE PROFILE: NORMA BAKERFLYING HORSE URBAN REZ WITH VOSQ CLOTHING

Culture Meets Collaborative Creativity Two Mohawk women and artists took their passions and merged them into one, creating two beautiful sets of beaded and woven-basket jewelry pieces unlike anything seen before.

Photo by Laurie Gardner Makeup/Hair by Tisha Thompson

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Carrie Hill and Tobi Mitchell are two Mohawk women and artists who honed very different creative skills but met each other and bonded at a basket-weaving class. Their brainstorming and the collaborative partnership has not only fused together artistic mediums, but it keeps the legacy of their Mohawk culture and heritage alive through modern fashion.

Hill was fortunate enough to be a stay-athome mother to her youngest daughter, but when boredom set, she craved something to keep herself busy. Then, Hill was taught how to weave baskets by her Auntie Laura. “I would go to her house after I put my kids to bed and she would show me different weaving techniques, like how to prepare the splint to make it ‘weavable’” remembers Hill.

“In the summer she showed me how to collect sweetgrass, it was something that I had taken an immediate liking to and impressed my auntie with my tight weaves.”

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The Edge

Mitchell, who was apart of the Akwesasne Singers & Dancers group growing up, would partake in learning and make crafts with her group where she learned how to bead. “I took a break from beading around the time I went to University, and with a nudge from my sister I picked it back up about seven or eight years ago.”

Then the ladies met in a basket class. Hill remembers how often Mitchell picked up intricate designs or shapes to weave, and how much fun she was to have with her in class. “She was always up for a challenge and never gave up.”

Mitchell joined the class to further her skillswith making baskets. “We got along pretty well,” Mitchell says of taking classes with Hill.

Mitchell admits to pondering the idea of adding beads to her baskets in class but realized that the baskets would suffer structural damage if added. But Hill was there to solve the problem.

“Little did I know, Carrie had another idea up her sleeve. She contacted me about working together and during our quick discussion about it, I had so many different ideas in my head.”

After a quick phone call and brainstorming, Hill and Mitchell decided to bring their vision to life. To make the initial pieces, Hill made a few different medallion-sized pieces of baskets.

Mitchell then took them and experimented with a few different techniques until she found one that worked with the uniqueness of the pieces.

“I used our traditional Haudenosaunee-raised beadwork to add some color and design to the pieces,” Mitchell explains. “Normally, Carrie uses sweetgrass along the outside of her earrings, and since that was missing, I used the beadwork to try and look like a braid.”

The close friends and collaborators are planning on creating more pieces in the future.

“We have received some requests for orders, and we’ve discussed the possibility of doing more sets and experimenting more with these,” says Mitchell. Hill agrees. “I believe we are. I really dig her style.”

You can purchase or make requests for pieces by visiting Chill Baskets or Midnite Creations on Facebook or Instagram or by emailing chillbaskets1@gmail.com.

Photo by Marina Labaff

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The Edge

Christy Ruby (below) designs modern contemporary pieces with the fur that she hunts herself.

FASHION STORY

Working with Fur, according to Christy Ruby In this issue, not only did we want to feature a photo collage of our favorite fur pieces and accessories, we want to put a spotlight on an indigenous artist who worked with fur on a daily basis: meet Christy Ruby.

PHOTOS: COURTESY

For Christy Ruby, her work with fur takes her back to her ancestral roots. “The fur has a familiar sensation that means life or death to my people, and its value has not changed for thousands of years.” Ruby introduces herself as an Alaskan Native Tlingit Eagle from the Keet Gooshi Hit House, Killer Whale Dorsal Fin. She was born in Haines, Alaska and refers to herself of having “a tough pioneer mix,” being French Canadian and Tlingit. “Utilizing the skills taught to us from the past will ensure we will never go hungry and we can always clothe ourselves,” explains Ruby. But Native Alaskans didn’t just hunt; they strove for individual expression in the creation of beautiful clan art. “It’s with this sentimental pallet that I create modern looks with glimpses from the past.” Ruby’s creations were inspired by skills passed down to her by her grandfather, who was a very talented man from Klukwan who carved totem poles and toured the world as a Chilkat dancer. “I strive to be as proud of my work as I am of my heritage.”

She’s lived in Alaska her whole life, so, best believe that she loves all types of fishing and hunting. Ruby mainly hunts harbor seal and only take a few sea otter once a year.

According to Ruby, there are no limits on the take of either of these mammals as their populations are flourishing in southeast Alaska. However, the only requirement for

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hunting them is a hunter has to be at least ¼ Alaskan Native and live on the coastline of Alaska. “I use a 22-250 and reload my ammo to take all my game, including deer” Ruby explains.

When Ruby hunts, she salvages some of the seal meat and fat and donates it to several groups of elders who can’t get the seal on their own. “It has the flavor of the ocean and is very dark, oily and rich in omega fatty acids,” she says of the seal’s flavor. As for the animals’ hides, Ruby makes the beautiful contemporary fashion of the highest quality and craftsmanship. Her design collection is as diverse as the color of hides she works with, and consists of outerwear such as mittens, neck warmers, and hats; Ruby also makes sea otter teddy bears and jewelry adorned with seal claws.

It’s also worth noting that Ruby’s work is award-winning.

Her pieces have been awarded first, second and third place ribbons at various Native Art Markets and Fairs across Indian Country. No matter where her travels take her, Ruby is always happy to display her work and share the stories of her heritage with everyone.

Ruby is indeed a well-rounded, multi-talented individual. Her talents consist of multimedia arts such as graphic designing and marketing. She’s also an avid gardener and raises chickens outside her home.

Shop pieces from Ruby’s collections at her Etsy store at ETSY.COM/PEOPLE/INDIGENOUSALASKA.

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The Edge

STYLE PROFILE

Norma Baker -Flying Horse Norma Baker-Flying Horse is making a name for herself with both her work ethics and brilliant appliqué artwork; meet the woman behind Red Berry Woman.

A mother of five, assistant to the Three Affiliated Tribes (Mandan-Hidatsa-Arikara) Tribal Chairman, fashion designer/beader/creator-in-demand, wife, and aspiring business owner, Hidatsa, Dakota Sioux, and Assiniboine Norma Baker-Flying Horse usually needs no introduction to whether or not she can accomplish daunting tasks. Already juggling a demanding career, business, and family, her accomplishments and goals continue to pave a path that inspires many.

Last year, she showcased her fashion line Red Berry Woman at several fashion shows, including Native Max’s Native Fashion in the City as well as her own fashion show that attracted the participation of various dignitaries from Indian Country including former Miss Indian World (2016-2017) Danielle Finn and Breaking Bad’s Jeremiah Bitsui, among others. She will be gracing the Native Fashion in the City runway show again this year with some of Indian Country’s brightest fashion designers.

Norma joins the ranks among some of Indian Country’s most renowned artists, and her demand includes years of waiting. Her work is high in demand from many of Indian Country’s dignitaries regularly making appearances on the red carpet or at some of the most prestigious events celebrating Native people.

Norma shares her journey isn’t entirely selfmotivated, however. She credits her grandmother Beverly Walking Eagle-Baker and her mother Roberta Baker for teaching her the basics of both beading and sewing while a teenager. And although her talent and skill in beading is worthy of museum curation, it’s her sewing that is her focus. Her younger brother Caleb Baker introduced her to appliqué work that is well-recognized among Northern tribes, and she has continued to build on and brand her style of appliqué that is renowned throughout the country and beyond.

She mentions two well-known and accomplished fashion designers that motivate her: Jamie Okuma and Bethany Yellowtail. Both designers have paved a trail that many have followed throughout Indian Country, and there is no doubt Norma is on her to being another trailblazer.

“The work that these two are doing inspire me to want to achieve more and more,” said Norma. “The way they promote other artists is a level I want to be on, and they are exemplary icons in the industry. I am in disbelief my work is being featured along their side.”

Handling a business is no easy feat, and Norma manages all levels of her fashion line Red Berry Woman including creating, consultation, promotion,

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marketing, and development. With a future paved by many years of dedication and hard work, Norma continues to express how excited she is to share her journey and future goals.

“It takes so much work to create and promote your work,” said Norma. “The fact that the amount of orders I have in the future is overwhelming, but a result of hard work and dedication. I don’t mass produce orders, each item I create takes time to get to know the person who is going to be wearing an item I create, and I want it to be meaningful to the person.”

Later this year Norma revealed she is going to focus on collaborating with other artists including fashion designers to showcase fashion and talent particularly in the Northern part of the country. “I’d like to encourage those living in the Northern regions to experience and participate in fashion as well, to show our communities as well as others elsewhere that there is tremendous untapped potential.”

Very top: Norma Baker-Flying Horse; Norma’s models wearing her pieces at last year’s 4th annual Native Fashion in the City event

You can follow Norma Baker-Flying Horse via Instagram at www.instagram.com/red_berry_ woman or see her work showcased at this year’s Native Fashion in the City of Denver, Colorado. For more information on Native Fashion in the City’s schedule of events, please visit www.nativefashioninthecity.com.

Darren Thompson (Ojibwe/Tohono O’odham) is a Native American flute player and writer from the Lac du Flambeau Ojibwe Reservation in Northern Wisconsin.

NORMA BAKER-FLYING HORSE: COURTESY; MODELS: CEYLON GREY

BY DARREN THOMPSON

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The Edge

FASHION FEATURE

Urban Rez Pechanga Tribe-based apparel and brand Vosq Clothing Co.’s newest collection “Urban Rez” soughts to bring rural roots and combine it with today’s urban “streetwear culture.”

PHOTOS BY ANDERSON GOULD JR.

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The Edge ABOUT VOSQ: Vosq Clothing Co. was founded in concept, on the grounds of the Pechanga Indian Reservation. The theme then was to create a brand my family and ancestors would be proud of, as well as a brand that my friends and community could relate to. Vosq Clothing Co. is based in Southern California. Our goal is to craft quality men's apparel that empowers people through creativity and perspective to challenge their own fears and abilities.

While our roots are rural, our ambition is global. We seek to rejuvenate the narrative of the Native American community through quality products and community outreach. Especially in a manner, that people of all Indigenous backgrounds can relate to, take pride in and appreciate.

-Nick Vassel of Vosq Clothing Co. ABOUT THIS COLLECTION: This most recent line was titled “Urban Rez” which sought to bring our rural roots and combine it with today’s urban “streetwear culture.” With a healthy combination of simplistic and then to more advanced designs, we strived to find that balance and not overdue the design. Furthermore, we strategically photographed this line on our Reservation to reinforce that “Urban Rez” theme.

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The Edge

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The Edge

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The Edge

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The Insider Culture

What Native Hope Looks Like

O

PLUS: LOVE FOR BUSINESS

Kyal Middletent

ur Native American culture is a living, breathing entity. It is a tapestry of tradition and values passed on from generation to generation.

Today, many of us are aware of the challenges facing Indian Country and the struggle to join together in unity and preserve our vibrant culture and history. As Natives, we often discuss the struggle of trying to live and thrive in two worlds: the world of our culture and ancestors and the one of a modern day civilization that is a melting pot of ideals, customs, and beliefs. Often, when as Indigenous people, we embrace our physical beauty and inner uniqueness, the conflict between these two worlds becomes even more apparent.

There is a generation of proud Native Americans, however, rising up in the midst of the turmoil and persecution of this present day and reclaiming their identity, their heritage, their pride, and their dignity. A generation lifting up an anthem of hope as they break out of the mold and pressure to “fit in” and pursue their cultural identity that has been suppressed for far too long.

Hope. It’s such a simple word, yet it holds the key to so much power and redemption. When hope rises up in our hearts, it’s the spark that ignites the flame; it empowers us to take hold of our future and shine bright to the world around us.

The following proud Native Americans are driven by the warrior spirit of their ancestors as they embark on a journey to leave their mark on this world for generations to come:

Lakota

“I live my life in a positive and healthy way to mentor the youth and show them alternative ways of living. I use our platform to be their voice and seek opportunities they don’t often have.”

Photography by Native Hope nativemax.com

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The Insider

Blake Pocquette Cherokee Blake Pocquette, a member of the Cherokee Nation, is a Hollywood stuntman and stunt coordinator. “I am very proud to be Cherokee and to have been raised in a small town with not much money but lots of love. I grew up without a father, but through rodeo and riding bulls, I had father figures that showed me what it was to prove myself as a man. I have a wonderful, supportive family that I cherish and a great career as a stunt performer and now coordinator and am excited about opening doors for Native youth to career paths they never thought they might have. I am so proud to be a part of Native Hope...the future is ours!”

Alexus Little Cherokee

Alexus Little, a Cherokee, encourages, “I’m doing something. You can do something. Be a light for everyone else around you...I combat the lows [prevalent drug and alcohol use] by getting involved in positive activities: sports, youth groups, and community activities.” Alexus continues, “If I notice someone is feeling down or left out, I try to get them involved, too.” She wants others to know, “You should finish school...go to college, do something fun, inspire others around you...NO ONE should get in the way of what you want to do—if they do, keep pushing and try harder!”

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Jordan Marie Daniels (Brings Three White Horses) Lakota

Jordan Marie Daniel (Brings Three White Horses), a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, is passionate about her people and shares, “I want to be a voice that changes the narrative and helps to make Indian country a better place….hope means to me that not only Indigenous people, but everyone comes together in a unified understanding of what the struggles are and works to make them better in a collaborative effort.”

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The Insider

Jewel Jandreau Lakota

Frank Waln Sicangu Lakota

FRANK WALN: MELINDA JANE MYERS

Frank Waln, award-winning Sicangu Lakota Hip Hop artist and music producer from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, encourages Native youth, “Stay strong through the hardships, pursue your dreams, and don’t be defined by the negative circumstances you may be experiencing.”

Recalling his Rappin’ the Rez with Hope event with Native Hope last fall, he shares, “The school visits the day after the concert were my favorite part of the whole trip. Getting the chance to connect to each student by sharing my personal story helped us all heal together. This whole couple of days [concert, youth council, school visits] were some of the most meaningful and relevant programming I’ve ever seen on a plains reservation. I’m grateful to have been a part of it all.”

Kansas Middletent Lakota

“As a Native Hope Ambassador, I am proud to represent our people in a good way, telling true facts and the history of our people the way it was taught to me by our elders, and to serve our people with humility and compassion.”

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Jewel Jandreau, an elder and member of the Kul Wicasa Oyate, states, “It’s time for our people to change our mindset and to break free from all the different types of abuse that are keeping us in bondage. As long as we have life, there’s hope.

After we, as a people, take a good look at what has been keeping us from moving ahead for a better life, we can take positive steps to be free to truly live.”

Dennis Metcalf Lakota

Dennis Metcalf, a young artist from the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, states, “When I was younger, I believed the world was against me; it never offered me anything meaningful—it often showed me cruelty, which gave me a negative outlook.” He continues to share that his art is a form of therapy, transporting him to places he longs to be.

He adds, “It helps me solidify my position in this universe and reminds me that there is something in my control; the outcome is really up to me.

No one else.”

In the Lakota culture, the word tiyospaye encompasses the conviction that family is not only made up of immediate blood relatives but also extends to all those within the tribal clan. The Lakota have a saying that helps to clearly describe this belief: Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ el lechangleska wichoni, which translates: "We are all related in this circle of life." Tiyospaye embraces the beauty of living in harmony, taking care of one another, and trusting each other.

Your tiyospaye will support

you throughout life’s journeys, whether the road is rocky or the path smooth.

As members of this modern day generation of Native Americans, we must come together as one tiyospaye in community and purpose. It’s imperative that we join together to celebrate the intricate beauty of both our differences and our commonalities. To support one another when the path is smooth or when the road is rocky. To raise our voices in an anthem of hope and to ignite the fire from within.

This story was put together in collaboration with Native Hope, a nonprofit organization that exists to dismantle barriers & inspire hope for Native voices unheard. NATIVEHOPE.ORG

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The Insider Business

Love for Business Despite being a fresh startup in business for less than a year, this family is determined to become successful altogether.

Who: The Pearman Family Their Business: 6Hundred5 Below Ice Cream Rolls Founded last year by Lawrence “L-Jay” Pearman and his family on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation in South Dakota, 6Hundred5 Below Ice Cream Rolls proves to be a trailblazer and benefactor for good health.

Pearman and his wife Jonni were both raised on and are tribal members of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in central South Dakota. The Pearman family are located in and operate 6Hundred5 Below out of Eagle Butte, SD, the tribal headquarters of the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation.

The Pearman family don’t create your average ice cream. They make, from scratch, their version of “stir-fried ice cream,” or better known as ice cream rolls. Research uncovered this technique of rolling ice cream on an ice grill existed in Thailand by 2009, which slowly rose to virality over the last few years. Ice cream roll stands and vendors are popping up all over malls and marketplaces in cities throughout the U.S. but remained unseen on the reservation until the Pearman family decided to open up their own business. “I came across it on the internet and thought it would be a good idea,” Pearman explains. “Everyone likes ice cream. The customers we are targeting are people of all ages.”

The reactions by customers and fans are mainly positive. “Most of the customers are amazed at the process. The process is so simple, and the product is delicious.” The family sells their ice cream rolls throughout the reservation at birthday parties and small get-togethers. Once, Pearman received offers to sell ice cream rolls in Rapid City, the second populous city of South Dakota and a 3 and a half hour drive away.

Ice cream rolls aren’t only a sweet treat to enjoy; they’re also a way to help get fresh fruit into one’s diet. “We use fresh fruit to make the ice cream rolls healthy” Pearman explains. “Living a healthy lifestyle is important to my family and me. I want to give people the healthy choice of ice cream.”

The Pearman family create various popular flavors of ice cream rolls, including unique concoctions typically not found at other ice cream roll stands (such as wojapi). Pearman’s personal favorite is Very Berry Cherry, which consists of cherries, strawberries, raspberries, and bananas with a milk base.

The Pearman family have one goal in their sight: to have a permanent location. “In one year we hope to be in our own permanent physical space,” explains Pearman. “We would like to continue to have sales at various places, but having a permanent place will be nice.” In five years, the family hopes their business will be going strong and will continue with their traveling.

The love the Pearman family have for each other undoubtedly shines through the business. Working together means the family also spends a lot of time together. Pearman says due to the amount of time

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The Pearman family with their ice grill: (L to R) Ashlyn, Alexis, Jonni, Lawrence and Asher (Photo: courtesy)

spent together, it’s brought them closer as a family. “It has brought a new meaning to teamwork for all of us involved. Working alongside your kids teaches them the importance of responsibility and patience.”

However, there are downsides to the Pearman business. First is finding the best locations to set up their station and sell ice cream rolls to customers.

Next is having to travel at least 90 miles one direction to get the proper supplies needed for each sale, as Pearman’s headquarters is in a small town located on a remote reservation. However, the rewards trump the struggles. “Rewards of the business would be to see our customers happy and satisfied with our product,” Pearman explains. “It is also gratifying to have customers return for more; then we know our product is delicious.”

In the Pearman family business, everyone has a role. Pearman’s 12-year-old daughter Ashlyn runs the register and takes orders from customers. “In the future, she will be an ice cream roller,” Pearman says of Ashlyn. Asher, the youngest member of the family, helps where he can and mostly assists with the mixture of the base and prepares toppings for the ice cream rolls. Pearman’s 18-year-old daughter tops all ice cream rolls and takes over the rolling when her parents need a break. Pearman’s wife Jonni fills in for him and only rolls ice cream. If one of the family members isn’t there, another member can perform their role, making the entire process smoother.

“All family members can fill in for other members,” Pearman says. “We can complete each other’s responsibilities.”

Although the Pearman family are still in the beginning stages of business ownership and entrepreneurism is still new to them, they’re excited to learn and grow.

To keep up with the Pearman family and find out where they’re having their next ice cream roll sale, follow them on Facebook at 6hundred5 Below - Ice Cream Rolls.

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Cover Story

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ON THE COVER

Eugene Braverock: Actor & Storyteller

BY KELLY HOLMES PHOTOS BY JOEY MONTOYA DESIGNS BY CHLOE ANGUS

T

o say the past several years have been life-changing for Eugene Brave Rock would be an understatement. It all started when he got the call that he would star in Wonder Woman as “The Chief,” an active participant and contributor to the heroine’s journey to save the world. He played a considerable part in the film and even brought his Blackfoot culture with him onto the big screen.

His role in this record-breaking blockbuster propelled him to fame. He’s been featured in hundreds of publications, newspapers and online sites across the globe, and has covered the front page of a handful of magazines already.

However, Native Max is the first Native American publication he’s been asked to grace the cover,

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which is why he didn’t hesitate the feature.

I approached Brave Rock on Twitter, the social media network he’s regularly checking up on, with the question of if he’d be interested in being on our cover. Without thinking about it, he replied, “It would be an honor.” Fast forward a few weeks, and we’re coordinating the cover shoot. We settle on shooting in San Francisco, at some of the city’s iconic sites such as the Golden Gate Bridge. Our team picks up Brave Rock and his son from their home and drive to San Francisco to meet up with Joey Montoya, the photographer for the shoot.

Although the shoot took all day, Brave Rock had fun. “So much fun in San Fran,” he admits. “Great locations and an amazing, beautiful sunny day.

Views were amazing.” >>>

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T

his time is the second time I’m meeting with Brave Rock, but this time I’m interviewing him for his feature. The cover shoot was more relaxed. The interview is a little nerve-wracking.

Studying Brave Rock and watching him on Wonder Woman three times seemed to set the bar higher. But his eagerness helps me calm down.

“I just took some notes from the questions you sent me,” he says before we start the interview.

“They were good questions. They made me think.”

He tells me being featured in a Native American magazine inspires him to be more relatable.

Brave Rock is Blackfoot from the Blood Tribe of Siksikaissksahkoi, or Blackfoot Country. He was raised by his grandmother Florence on the Canadian side on the Blood rez in southern Alberta. “I’d rather represent who we are before there were borders. Blackfoot country” he says.

He grew up with Chief Mountain –one of the most prominent and oldest peaks along the Rocky Mountain range– in his backyard. Brave Rock, whose traditional name is Natoiyiipiita, or Holy Eagle, is a self-proclaimed rez kid from the Blood rez.

And like other rez kids in remote areas, Brave Rock watched movies and idolized Native American actors on the tv screen. One of Brave Rock’s earliest people of inspiration was the late fellow Blackfeet actor Steve Reevis. “As a kid seeing him on film, I think it was Geronimo with Wes Studi,” he recalls. “I remember seeing Steve on tv and being inspired. I thought to myself, ‘if he can do it, why can’t I do it?’” Brave Rock watched other Native American actors that were on the big screen, and one day knew he would make it there.

“I remember telling my sister, ‘you’re going to see me on television riding a horse’.”

Although it seems like an overnight success, this has been a trek Brave Rock has been on since the age of 17. His start into the film industry happened when he became a stuntman after training to ride, fall and fight in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in Paris, France. He signed onto more tv shows, and films as a stuntman, most notably on the tv series Hell on Wheels as fellow Native American actor Moses Brings Plenty’s stunt double and the Oscar-winning film The Revenant. When asked if he favored being a stuntman, Brave Rock says he takes any opportunity that comes his way whether it’s stunts or acting. “You know, I got into

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the business being an extra, but I became a stunt guy right away,” he explains. “It’s progressed, and everything has become a stepping stone in my career.” He admits that both acting and stunts are just as challenging to each other. “Stunts are physically challenging, but so is the mentality of acting. I like to learn something new every day and challenge myself.”

I asked Brave Rock what his first experience working in movies was like, and the first film he took part in came to mind. “I worked on Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee where there were probably 50 to 100 extras, so I got to meet a lot of people,” he answers. “What stands out to me the most are the people I got to meet.” I then asked what his experience was like working with The Revenant. “It was cold!” he laughs. “It was so cold, but it was amazing as well. So thankful to be apart of such an epic movie. With what Alejandro [G. Iñárritu] and Chivo did, I’m so thankful to be apart of that stunt crew.”

Brave Rock reflected back to when he auditioned for the role of Chief in Wonder Woman. He had no idea it was for Wonder Woman when they gave him a ghost script to read off. “I thought I bombed my audition,” he laughs.

“It was my first time in L.A., I was so nervous, and I forgot my lines. I was overwhelmed.” Brave Rock ended up walking out feeling down and wished he could redo his audition. “But I had to rub it off, and I had to take it for what it was. I got a free tour of Warner Brothers’ Studio, and I had the opportunity to go to Hollywood.” Brave Rock never thought he’d hear from the casting crew again. A couple of months later they called him and not only told him he nailed his audition but what the audition was actually for. Brave Rock was with champion fancy dancer Luke Whiteman getting ready for a performance when he got the good news. “I got the call, and I let out a war cry. It was surreal and to be honest, and it’s still so surreal. I still can’t believe it.”

After hearing the news of his role for Wonder Woman, he got to work right away. Brave Rock met with the film’s director Patty Jenkins, who broke some bittersweet news to him. “Patty was amazing and respectful. My first meeting with her, she brought that up. I didn’t know my name was ‘Chief’” He considered that “fighting words.”

Something Jenkins did allow Brave Rock to change was his language. As you may have noticed

in the movie, as Chief greeted the group when they arrive at the campsite, he said something to Diana (or Wonder Woman) in which she answered, “and I’m Diana.” There were many languages spoken in the film accompanied with English subtitles, except for when Brave Rock’s character spoke. This was no accident. “Out of respect for me and my culture, she said, ‘do you speak your language?’ I answered ‘yeah,’ and she said, ‘in spite of calling you Chief I will let you introduce yourself in your own language.’” And that is why Brave Rock introduced himself in his Blackfoot language. To see the director of the film even consider Brave Rock’s concerns speak volumes.

Brave Rock likes that the movie didn’t put any subtitles. “It was a little mysterious. The only people that would understand me are Blackfoot people who understand and speak the language.” I shared with Brave Rock how tens of online forums and discussion popped up online theorizing what he said and why the film didn’t have subtitles. He also agreed with me when I suggested how that helped create a positive buzz and a fanbase for his character.

What makes this situation more incredible is who his character in the movie was. If you hear him clearly, Chief referred to his name as “Napi.”

Napi in the Blackfoot culture is a storyteller, the first man the Creator created. For Brave Rock, he gave Napi another breath of life, bringing a huge part of his culture and his roots with him on the big screen. This is unlike anything seen before in the world of entertainment. It was significant for Brave Rock to include such a big part of his Blackfoot culture in the film. “For me, growing up I would hear Napi stories,” he recalls. “Napi and the rock, there are hundreds of Napi stories.” In each story of Napi, there’s a lesson to be learned. Napi teaches you a lesson through everyday scenarios.

“Again, I’m so thankful that I not only got to share my language but also a part of my culture by sharing the Blackfoot Demi-God Napi in the story.”

Napi is everything to Brave Rock. When he goes into an audition, he puts down tobacco and prays to Napi. “Napi is our storyteller, and he’s my educator. Being that storyteller, I ask Napi to walk in my shoes.” This then highlights Brave Rock’s mission and journey as an actor. He doesn’t only consider himself an actor, but a storyteller also.

“Those stories were strong when I was a kid,

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“I’m just a kid from the blood rez, dreams do come true. To come from the Blood Reserve to Hollywood is a dream come true. I’m an example.”

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but we’re losing that oral tradition and I think acting and doing what I’m doing in the movie business is an extension of that oral storytelling in a contemporary way.” Brave Rock admits that many people in Indian Country think that Native American actors are selling out our culture, but he looks at it differently. “In the tradition that’s how we told our stories and that’s how we keep our traditions alive. I think that’s very important.”

I ask if his role as Chief, or Napi, taught him anything about himself. “Ikgakimat. In my language we call it, ‘you never give up, stay strong and it’ll all be worth it in the end.” He adds that dreams do come true, even for a kid from the Blood rez. Brave Rock’s participation in Wonder Woman is unforgettable as he was a Native American actor who owned his character.

According to Brave Rock, he was able to bring some dignity to “the Chief” by not playing stereotypes.

The success of Wonder Woman was not a surprise to Brave Rock. “I anticipated it was going to be huge.” I ask him why he thought that.

“First of all, Wonder Woman is 75 years old, and she hasn’t had her major blockbuster movie yet, right?” He continues, “Female superhero, I was like, ‘wow, this is going to be huge!’” Brave Rock adds that adding Patty Jenkins to the table just brought more to it, on top of featuring a topnotch cast and crew. Of course, I asked Brave Rock how it felt to work alongside these famous actors you only see in movie theaters. “The cast was amazing. Everybody was so down to earth and so knowledgeable, it was like going to school.

Watching them behind the camera doing their scenes was like sitting in class getting educated.”

Another unforgettable moment for Brave Rock was when he got to drive a 1916 Rolls Royce in the film. “That was a cool part, to drive that 1916 Rolls Royce, trying to find a way to get into that castle.

Not too many people get to drive a Rolls Royce.”

Another passion for Brave Rock is his language.

I recall mentions of a book releasing soon during the cover shoot. “A children’s book, I’m trying to get my language out there,” he explains. “It’s hard for the younger generation to learn the language and its importance. Our language is who we are.”

His children’s book, titled Hello... Fruit Basket is a backyard visit like no other. The story follows Eugene and his son Colt, and their daily journey as they take a morning stroll and appreciate the fantastic world around them. The book also features the Blackfoot language. “We get to share our language. It’s an educational thing.” Brave

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Rock adds that the book will be released in the U.S. on February 9th and in Canada on March 9th.

The last few years for Brave Rock have been overwhelmingly busy. On top of his upcoming projects and releases, Brave Rock is also a family man. “It’s a tough balance when I’m away from my family working,” he says. “Because my son is accustomed to being with daddy every day, Facetime is great for catching up and getting to see him.” I asked if the last few years, from working on Wonder Woman to its release, have been transformative for him. “Yes most definitely,” he answers. “The fact that my character was portrayed in the light of a hero has probably made the most impact. Because our people are never portrayed in a positive light, being on screen speaking my language. There’s a lot of power in that.”

Of the whole conversation with him, I can’t help but notice how humble and soft-spoken Brave Rock is. He’s worked with Hollywood movie stars in a film that grossed more than $100 million and may potentially star in the Wonder Woman sequel. There’s no doubt that this opportunity opened more doors for him. Yet, he never forgets to mention how grateful he is throughout our talk. I ask him how he remains humble. “Never forget where I come from and giving thanks for the footsteps I’ve taken and asked for guidance in the footsteps I’m about to take. Faith and gratitude are key.”

I poked at Brave Rock, trying to get some exclusive information on if Napi or Chief will have his standalone film. “Nice try!” he laughs. I asked if there’s anything he’s personally working on. “I have so many productions in film and television coming up,” he answers. “I’m also releasing a flute CD.” Brave Rock admits he had big dreams and big goals when I inquired about what his future looked like. “I see the opportunity to share our stories through our own eyes, and it’s happening. And I’m so glad to be apart of this change.”

His words of wisdom for the Native youth are just as encouraging. “When it comes down to it, I’m just a kid from the rez. I live and work around the world now,” he continues. “I want the younger generation to know to keep their cultural values close. I wouldn’t be where I’m at without them.”

Brave Rock reminds the youth to get out and learn their language and never to forget where they came from. “No matter what tribe we are, we come from a long line of warriors and chiefs. Be proud of that. Dreams do come true.”

Keep up with Eugene and his upcoming releases by following him on Twitter: @genebraverock

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What I Love

For our Love Issue, we asked both readers and Native Max team members to share with us what and who they love and why.

PHOTOS BY VIKI EAGLE

Sarah Ortegon

White Owl Woman Shoshone and Northern Arapaho Sarah was born and raised in Denver, CO. However, growing up her parents would take her to the Wind River reservation as a kid. She would travel back and forth from Denver to Wyoming and would spend her summers on the reservation. She remembers being a dirty kid, playing in dirt hills and getting chased by rez dogs.

Sarah is all about self-love:

“No matter how much you want to give to others, you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you don't feel the love within yourself, if you don’t feel like you’re worthy, you don’t feel like you’re meant to accomplish things, how are you going to create that within yourself to push yourself forward. I feel like a lot of people are looking for love, for someone to fill that void, they’re looking for someone to constantly give to them but when you’re focused on only receiving love you’ll never be able to give it fully.”

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Scott Denver

Ute Mountain Ute and Diné Scott Denver was born and raised in Cortez, CO and soon after graduating high school moved to Denver, CO to attend college and remained here ever since.

Scott loves working and fighting for his people:

“I love the struggle. That essentially makes us who we are and I love the people on the forefront fighting these battles on a daily basis because somebody has to. Even with my job. I work at the Native American Rights Fund, I’m a paralegal and we deal with a lot of legal issues pertaining to land rights, voting rights, water rights, getting tribes federally recognized and that’s something that I just love about that we have people that deal with legal issues and do it in a way that shows us in a different light, that we’re intellects, that we are loving individuals and that we care about our people and that’s what I love. Maybe one day I’ll be up there with the likes of Russell Means.”

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Celeste Kimimila Terry Oglala Lakota

Celeste Kimimila Terry is Oglala Lakota and was born in Boston, MA but hails from Aurora, CO.

Celeste on her love for all those who support her: “I love my family, I love my people, my culture, I love sharing knowledge. I think learning is a beautiful thing. I think art is beautiful. I love my mom, my dad, my sisters, my aunties, my cousins, my whole tiospaye, my tuwahe, my whole community that I’m from. The people I love support me, they uplift me and keep me grounded when my ego gets out of balance. They do a lot more for me than what I do for myself without them.”

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Jared Abe Diné

Jared Abe is Diné hip hop artist who was born in Farmington, NM but was raised here in Denver, CO.

Jared on his love for music:

“What I want to talk about today is my love for music because music is just an expression for everything and music can hold so much power and such a big message because I do music myself. When you hear the music, the beat, that kind of gets you going and you can hear the emotion. There’s so much emotion that goes into music. The instrumentals, the music, the vocals, you hear all that emotion and it carries such a strong message.

Music can move people and that’s what I want to do with my music.”

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Kelly Holmes

Mnicoujou Lakota Kelly Holmes is Lakota from the Cheyenne River reservation in South Dakota. She relocated to Colorado with her family when she was only 16 years old. Kelly is also the founder and editor-in-chief of Native Max Magazine.

Kelly on her love being a mother:

“I love my kids. I am a mom to a 7 and 3-year-old. I love them because I feel like everyday I don't know what I’m doing half the time and things don’t go as planned and I doubt myself. But everyday that my kids wake up in the mornings I feel like I’m doing something right. They taught me patience. They taught me unconditional love.”

Check out the ‘Native Max Shorts’ video series where you can watch the full interviews.

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On Radar

Mic Jordan We catch up with hip-hop artist and motivational speaker Mic Jordan about his musical influences, how his style of music sets him apart from the rest, and what inspired his latest releases.

Photos by Britta the Photographer

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On Radar

Mic Jordan’s latest release “Run Away” is the first single off of his upcoming album “Breathe”. The music video, which accompanies the track, shows the struggle Jordan went through while writing music the last few years.

upon a time, Jordan Brien aka Mic Jordan O nce traded his corporate job to pursue his hip-hop

dreams full-time. Fast forward to today, and he is not only a hip-hop artist, but he’s also a motivational speaker who signed with Dream Warriors, an innovative artist management company based out of Colorado.

Jordan’s released a handful of successful albums and singles in the past few years, including visually creative and stunning music videos that go in-depth through the lyrics. And that is precisely what makes Jordan different than other musicians. Jordan does more than just flow; he bends the genre towards a softer side to tell his story honestly and positively.

Where are you from?

I am an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe tribe. Born and raised on the Turtle Mountain Reservation.

How did you become interested in music? And why hip-hop?

As far back as I can remember, music has always been in my life. It did a lot for me growing up. It got me through some pretty tough times. On the really difficult days, I remember throwing on my headphones and just listening to music and somehow all of those feelings would just fade away. I would get lost in the music. I was quickly drawn to hip-hop because I felt what the artist was trying to say. I found artists that had an incredible ability to tell stories of struggles in the most honest way without letting it get to them. That was powerful to me.

It got me into writing at an early age.

We know that you play instruments in your music, what instruments do you play? And how did you learn?

I’ve been playing acoustic guitar for about twelve years now. I would say at the very beginning; the internet

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taught me. Shortly after, I started to learn on my own and from there, just listening to music. Once I figured my way around a guitar I started writing my music. Most of my inspiration and music writing starts out on an acoustic.

What’s it like being signed with Dream Warriors?

It’s been great! I have been with Dream Warriors since it started and it’s been exciting to watch it grow! Since then, we’ve become such a close family. It’s nice to lean on like-minded people who share the same mission as you.

You’ve been dropping some fire new releases lately. Tell us about them!

I just released a new music video for my song “Run Away.” It is the first single off of my upcoming album “Breathe”. The video shows the struggle I went through with my writing. Not being able to complete a song in over two years has been difficult. In that time, I focused on finding balance physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I have two more videos that I am sitting on that I am excited to release when the timing is right.

Your music and your style, in general, is very different from other hip-hop artists. What makes your style of music different?

As an artist, I wear my heart on my sleeve. You can hear a lot of that in my records. I often write about what I am going through, which at times brings out an emotional side to me. As far as my sound, I’m classified as a hip-hop artist, but you can hear a little bit of everything in my music. Especially with the new project that I am working on. You will hear a lot of ambient and cinematic sounds (thanks to my friend and producer Evan Geiger) that create a unique sound. Sometimes during my sets, I play acoustic guitar. This allows for the listener to see

another side of my music they may not hear in another hip-hop artist.

You shared the fact that you’re a father to a young child with your fans before. How do you balance fatherhood and your career?

It’s both extremely tough and rewarding at the same time. I am finding that my time now is more valuable than ever. Just because I want to give every minute to my daughter and she is at a point in her life where she needs me. So, finding that time to make music has been challenging. The toughest part is the traveling. I don’t like being away from home at all, but I know that the work that I do is essential. One day when she is old enough to understand she will understand that everything that I do is for her and I hope that one day I can make her proud.

Do you have any upcoming projects or releases we need to know about?

I am currently working on a brand new full-length album called “Breathe” that is set to release late spring of 2018. The title of the project came from the past year or so as I have been dealing with a lot of mental health issues. Mostly surrounding anxiety and the one thing that has helped me through it all has been finding myself spiritually. I am re-learning to breathe in the toughest situations. Also being able to create new music has helped out a lot with that. I am very excited about this new project because for the first time I get to a part of the production process. With that, my producer and I get to choose every single sound that you will hear.

Check out Mic Jordan’s music and latest news at Facebook.com/MicJordanMusic and micjordanmusic.bandcamp.com. nativemax.com

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Until Later Illustration by Crystal Starr

Remember this: Love surrounds you and comes from all over you. Your family, friends, co-workers, colleages, fans and more all love you.

But you need to remember self-love. Don’t forget to love yourself first.

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Urban Native Era We are Urban Native Era (@urbannativeera), a collective of youth striving to create a vision and voice for the 7th generation of Native America by reclaiming our traditional knowledge and identity in a rapidly changing world; simultaneously redefining what it means to be indigenous and free. .

Resilient Rd. (Road) is a movement created by Indigenous students for Indigenous students. We aim to share stories of our individual experiences on #ResilientRd by way of photography and videography while sporting Urban Native Era: because in this lifetime we are repatriating our voices, power, and paths. Resilient Rd. seeks to give a name to the struggle of maintaining, reclaiming, and redefining indigeneity in urban environments. .

Director/Photographer/Videographer: @tekpatl Assistant Director: @shalenejoseph Vision Advisor: @natalieeecarrillo

www.UrbanNativeEra.com @UrbanNativeEra

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