Quannah Chasinghorse

Tell Us A Little About Yourself –

Im Hän Gwich’in from Eagle Village, AK and Oglala Lakota from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. I’m 18, a Land protector, climate justice warrior, social justice advocate and IMG Model.

I’m 18, a Land protector, climate justice warrior, social justice advocate and IMG Model.

Q. Chasinghorse

Are you a Lifelong Alaska?  What part of Alaska did you grow up in and what was it like growing up there?

I was born in the Navajo Nation in Tuba City, AZ and spent some of my childhood in Arizona, Mongolia, New Mexico and when i was 6 we moved back to my maternal homelands, and where we have lived since. 

We live in Kenny Lake, AK where my mom raised my brothers and I, living our ways of life. She taught us how to hunt, fish, chop wood, and took us berry picking and had our own snare line and trapline. We even had a dog team and when it would get too cold to where the vehicle wouldn’t start, my mom would drop us off by dog team. 

My mom got a promotion in Fairbanks, AK when I was 12 and we have been here since. We visit our village and still practice our ways of life even though we live in the city.

At Careline, we want Alaskans to know that we are not only a suicide prevention hotline, that we are a someone-to-talk-to hotline as well.  We want Alaskans to reach out to us to talk whenever they need help or someone to talk to.  There are many barriers to reaching out, including many internal barriers.  What would you say to someone who needs help and someone to talk to but may not like the idea of reaching out to ask for help?

I would tell them that no matter how alone they might feel, that there is always someone who is willing to listen, support and help.  

Alaska can be a challenging place to live.  What are some coping strategies  that you have developed to cope and thrive in our unique Alaskan environment?

Alaskans are so lucky to live in a beautiful state with a lot of opportunities for healthy outdoor activities with beautiful views.  Winter can be super challenging but winter sports and activities always help me cope and recharge. 

During a time of great uncertainty and turmoil and transition, what gives you hope right now? And what makes you proud?

Other youth who are chasing their dreams and goals give me hope.  

During difficult times, is there a mantra or some sort of touchstone that you return to?  Something that gives you strength or offers perspective during challenging times?

Remember who you are and where you come from.  This is a reminder to me that I come from a strong and resilient bloodline, with a long line of strong Indigenous ancestors who stand behind me in support.

Remember who you are and where you come from.  This is a reminder to me that I come from a strong and resilient bloodline, with a long line of strong Indigenous ancestors who stand behind me in support.

Q. Chasinghorse