In recognition of Native American Heritage Month in November, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the Indigenous community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.
MassLive will publish profiles of these leaders through November. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Nayana LaFond is an artist based in Western Massachusetts. (Hoang ‘Leon’ Nguyen / The Republican)Leon Nguyen
Age: 42
Community: Athol
Her story: Nayana LaFond has always been an artist. She said she likes to use art as medicine to deal with what life has brought her. Her life has inspired her to unconsciously transition to “artivism” — art that draws attention to social issues. Specifically, she began her journey into activism with the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People painting project.
“Art has become my means of raising awareness and promoting change,” she said.
LaFond said murder is the third leading cause of death for Indigenous people after cancer and heart disease, in comparison with national leading causes of death for non-Indigenous Americans. Murder doesn’t crack the top 10, she said.
LaFond uses art to bring attention to issues such as missing and murdered Indigenous people and domestic abuse. She’s also involved in the community as a board member of the Native Youth Empowerment Fund.
In her words: “Be careful and deliberate in everything you do. Remember that working with people who have experienced trauma should be done carefully and respectfully and no one should ever profit from it.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
