Help Urban Natives Return to the Rez

Hi there! My name is Kevin Katz, and I'm a transgender Navajo (Diné) teen currently residing in Philadelphia, PA.

After my first journey to the Navajo reservation in 2019 (and my mom's first visit since the 90s), I realized the love I hold for my people and heritage. Since then, I've become a huge advocate for Navajo rights and Indigenous representation. Now, both my mom and I greatly desire to return to our ancestral homelands this summer.

Why this trip matters

Being raised in the Northeast, the only other Native person I've ever known has been my mom. Likewise, my mom was adopted and raised by white parents. Last year, we started our journey of finding our biological family through Ancestry.com. After months of research and communication, we finally know our family's hometown and even our Diné clans. Going back to the Navajo reservation means visiting my great grandfather's grave (who was a Navajo code talker), investing in more traditional Native regalia, and possibly meeting some of our family members.

Why we need help

My mom is a working-class, single mother raising our family, and we can't afford the trip to there any time soon. That's why I've decided to ask for your help so my mom and I can continue to reconnect with our tribe.

I'm extremely grateful for any donations and support on our journey. Please feel free to message me on Instagram @satored_ with any questions or comments :)

Thank you!