I identify as a proud chickasaw tribe member. Knowing where our tribe came from and what our ancestors had to endure to persist and prevail, I have learned resilience. I too will persist and prevail too. My ancestors came over to California during the dust bowl, during the 1930’s. Life was hard and most could not rise themselves out of poverty. Just during the last 30 years our tribe has experienced great wealth through our governors leadership. This wealth has trickled down to all the tribe members. Being a tribe member has rewarded me with many life experiences that have shaped my identity and helped guide me to where I am today. The tribe funded my summers at Triumphant Life Camp (TLC) during high school. At camp I experienced the love
