Xakái is enrolled member of the Yakama Nation; growing up on the reservation taught him hard truths about society and uncovered societal and environmental shortcomings he wanted to help change. It also cultivated a community and environmental-focused worldview that he carries to this day. His vision as an artist not only stems from his upbringing but also through his time at Haskell Indian Nations University where he was able to engage with immersive research topics related to environmentalism and Indigenous tribes, and with members of various tribal communities throughout the U.S. This conjunction fostered an acute curiosity and exploration of environmental and tribal paradigms through the lens of writing (research, stories, poetry), photography, videography, DJing, and dance. His curiosity and exploration continues to this day with hopes to support societal visions of a healthier and just future.

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Portland, OR