09/08/2025
This past weekend, I had the honor of being part of several meaningful events within our communities, each carrying its own spirit of tradition, leadership, and celebration.
On Friday, I joined the Pascua Yaqui Senior Center for their Senior Royalty Coronation. It was a beautiful moment to witness and be a part of, as we crowned the new Senior King and Queen for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, Louie Burruel and Linda Burruel. To see our elders celebrated in this way reminded me of the wisdom and strength they carry, and how they continue to guide us by laying the foundation for the generations to come.
Saturday was just as special, with two events that uplifted our youth and our culture. I first attended the Yoeme Youth Council Inauguration, where I and Earth Ambassador Laylalanai Gocobachi was invited as special guests. It was an honor to speak a few words to both the outgoing and incoming council members, encouraging them as they step into their roles and continue building upon the work of those before them. Our youth truly are the leaders of today and tomorrow.
That evening, I had the privilege of attending the Miss Pascua Yaqui Pageant. I was able to share words of encouragement to the outgoing and incoming royalty, reminding them of the important role they hold in representing and carrying forward the beauty of our traditions, culture, and people.
This weekend reminded me of the balance our communities hold — honoring our elders, uplifting our youth, and celebrating the royalty who represent us with pride. I am grateful for the opportunity to be present in these spaces, to witness the transitions of leadership, and to celebrate the strength of the Yoeme people. ✨🩵🤍❤️