Natalie Mitchell

I am a proud member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, descended from the Tarahumara people of Copper Canyon, Mexico, as well as Greek, French, and Dutch heritage. In the 1980s, I moved to Oregon and have since considered myself an Oregonian from the Portland metro region. My upbringing was devoid of any cultural heritage from my indigenous roots due to my father's similar experience of multi-generational forced assimilation and numerous forced removals of our people from their original lands.

My journey into indigenous knowledge and beadwork has been one of self-discovery, seeking out information, and engaging with other indigenous community members. I began doing beadwork at the age of 18, a practice that has always brought me peace, joy, and a profound sense of accomplishment.