By Timothy Brewington
UNCP welcomed Native American model and advocate Quannah Chasinghorse to discuss her childhood and career at Thomas Hall on March 22. The event was part of the Native American Speakers Series aimed to celebrate and understand Native American culture.
Chasinghorse first discussed her upbringing in Eagle Village, Alaska. She grew up hunting, fishing, and dog mushing with her brothers. At 13 years old, she began using her voice online and at protests for the rights of Indigenous people. It wasn’t until 2020 at 17 years old when a political campaign for Calvin Klein launched her modelling career.
She then touched on the fashion industry and the opportunities she had been given, like being on the cover of Vogue Mexico and walking the runway for New York and Paris Fashion Week. She would also be invited to the Met Gala over four times. However, her career brought on challenges as the expectations for models became too risky for her health.
“I had to step back from walking on runways because of the industry’s promotion of starving and not eating,” Chasinghorse said. “If your ribs and bones aren’t showing, you don’t get the job.” She also felt like the industry is moving backwards, with there being less diversity as the seasons go on.
When faced with these obstacles, she turns to positive outlets to stay grounded. “I pray a lot and ask for strength and guidance because the modeling industry is challenging,” she said. “I also like to blast music in my room, do makeup, and take care of myself.”
She also gave words of advice as she spoke on her journey. “Believe in yourself and live by what you stand for,” she said. “Reach for your dreams and reclaim who you are.”
Chasinghorse ended the event with a message to people feeling disconnected from their Indigenous roots.
“Be patient with yourself regardless of how much you know about your culture,” she said. “You are worthy of being heard by your people and you have a place in your culture.”