About the Author

Robin Maxkii

Robin Maxkii, Mohican Nation Stockbridge-Munsee Band, is a longtime advocate for Indigenous rights and an award-winning storyteller. Her work was the subject of the recent Google documentary "Between Worlds," and has also appeared in various publications including Tribal College Journal, the Chronicle of Higher Education, Michelle Obama's "Better Make Room" Campaign. She has penned numerous speeches, including an introduction for former Second Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. Robin's passion and work focuses on reframing Indigenous narratives while broadening the participation of under-served communities within storytelling. In her free time, she enjoys exploring the varied Oregon food scene and convincing herself it’s mostly for research.

The Meanings Behind Oregon’s Place Names

May 11, 2021
The land Oregon occupies precedes the concept of Oregon. This is true for any land within the United States, so it remains important to acknowledge the original inhabitants, past and still very much present, whose cultures, traditions and contributions helped form the places around us. More
found in
Native American Culture , Culture & History ,

Rooted in Culture: Oregon’s Wild Camas

February 25, 2021
Camas root has long nourished the people of the Northwest as a culturally significant staple. It’s served a pivotal role in the diet and trade of Tribal communities in Oregon as well as the land itself. And it’s been an important component of Tribal diets in Oregon for at least 10,000 years, with camas oven pits dating back at least 8,000 years. And it continues to be a staple for many Tribal families today. More
found in
Native American Culture , Culture & History ,

Celebrate Oregon’s Indigenous Foods

October 9, 2020
I used to dream about strawberries. Probably other berries as well, but as a kid, strawberries were the end-all, be-all of the berry world. When asked what design I would like sewn on my first traditional shawl, I responded with an immediate “Strawberry!” as I could think of nothing more beautiful. Perfectly shaped and painted a deep, rich red. They are the rubies of the fruit world. I dreamt of someday finding my own strawberry patch and filling my pockets flush. More
found in
Native American Culture , Culture & History ,