“There’s nothing we can’t do if we work hard, never sleep, and shirk all other responsibilities in our lives.” -Leslie Knope

As a Two-Spirit, Gender Fluid, Muscogee Nation person, growing up in the midwest, with my two sets of families, I had always felt a strong sense of love and community. My mother, being the youngest of 15 (imagine the family reunions…), allowed me to find myself in many mediums, like baseball (very popular in my family, with 3 pro-baseball players), gymnastics, and music. My father was also very encouraging, along with my Native side of the family, in Oklahoma. They gave me some of the most valuable life lessons, connection to what really matters in life and on Earth, and determination to fight for what’s right and true.

When I did find my love for acting, most likely when I pretended to be one of the Spice Girls or when I heard that beautiful laughter after delivering that well timed punch line, I was elated to find such a vibrant community that came with it.

Now, I am living in Boston, growing my skills in the Voice Acting industry, with my supportive husband, who has not only helped me grow into a better person, that I like, but is also the only other person I’ve met that could be weirder than me. I didn’t think it was possible, and yet here we are.

My gender experience as been extremely rewarding. As I explore the Two-spirit parts of myself, I find that I am more in tune with myself and others. It is so freeing to not feel bound to a societal way of thinking about gender, and to be able to embrace all parts of myself with love and understanding. Plus, y’all, I look good in heels.

As a member of the Actor’s Equity Association, I’m extremely excited to continue my adventures in what I’m passionate about, and uphold the standards I firmly believe in, both in theatrical spaces and in the union itself. To my studio closet warriors, we are redefining this industry and we are stronger for it. I’m glad I get to fight for these communities. May we all be so lucky to find the work worth doing that we love.