Exploring Cultural Roots and Sustainable Agriculture: A Conversation with Kevin, a Zuni Photographer and Advocate

In an increasingly fast-paced and technologically-driven world, there’s a powerful and poignant reminder that the land we walk on, the food we eat, and the traditions we carry are deeply rooted in our history and identity. In a candid interview, Kevin, a Zuni photographer, and advocate, takes us on a journey through his life and his profound connection to agriculture, culture, and the land. His story is a testament to the importance of preserving traditions, nurturing the Earth, and connecting with one’s roots.

“I think for me, Indigenous, I think it’s…Obviously, it’s a way of life. It’s the way you carry yourself through life, but also who you are as an individual. And I think for me, it’s been really defined on my Zuni side of knowing that I have our culture, our traditions, and that is what makes me Zuni. Therefore, that’s what makes me Indigenous, of being able to claim that.”

“Stewardship, Not Ownership”: The Intersection of Culture and Agriculture

For Kevin, agriculture is more than just a means of sustenance; it’s a bridge that connects him to his family’s past, his cultural heritage, and the natural world around him. Raised in a family where farming and cooking were not just activities but threads that wove together generations, Kevin’s journey into agriculture was inevitable. His father’s migration from El Salvador to California and his mother’s family history of farming in the Pueblo created a rich tapestry of agricultural heritage that influenced Kevin’s passion and pursuits.

“…the idea of what we really wanted to push was this idea of stewardship and not ownership. I think a lot of people, when you create programs, people tend to hold onto those as something that is like, “Oh, I helped create this, and this is part of my legacy that I leave behind.” But in reality, you can’t do that with agriculture because it’s always there. It’s always been there. It’s part of our existence as Native people, as Pueblo people. And I think for us, this idea of stewardship was to continue passing on those ideas and those techniques and certain things that we did to the future students there.”

As he delved into the realm of farming, Kevin found himself reconnecting with the land in profound ways. He recounts his experience working at a cultural center in Albuquerque, where he had the opportunity to get his hands back into the soil. The feeling of tending to the land and nurturing crops sparked a realization: he was a part of something bigger than himself. “It’s important to carry this on, not only for me, but for my future kids or my family,” Kevin reflects, highlighting the generational significance of maintaining agricultural practices.

Cultivating Connection: The Santa Fe Indian School Program

One of the remarkable chapters in Kevin’s journey was his involvement with the Santa Fe Indian School’s Farm to School program. This initiative aimed to create a self-sustaining model that not only nurtured produce but also nourished connections within the community. Kevin’s mother, who had previously worked at the school, introduced him to the program. It was an opportunity not only to work alongside his mother but also to contribute to a program that aligned with his values.

The program sought to source local produce and involve Pueblo farmers, ensuring that traditional foods were served and that money flowed back into the communities. Kevin describes the program’s success in engaging students, staff, and even the facilities crew in the agricultural process. But beyond the practicalities of farming, the program emphasized a deeper lesson: the importance of stewardship rather than ownership. “If that was able to connect them to having an idea of being home… that’s pretty much the most impactful part,” Kevin shares, emphasizing the program’s role in connecting students to their cultural roots.

Continuing the Legacy: A Future Focused on Empowerment

Today, Kevin’s work extends beyond the fields. He is deeply invested in supporting his community through his involvement with Tewa United, an organization that focuses on empowering Native youth with knowledge about healthy sexuality, mentality, and personal agency. Kevin also engages in policy work centered on issues like reproductive justice and environmental justice.

In the realm of photography, Kevin envisions projects that resonate with his beliefs. One such project involves documenting agricultural practices and traditions within each of the 19 Pueblos. He aims to create a book that preserves these practices, exclusively for Native individuals, ensuring that the documentation is authentic and accurate. Another project explores the symbolism behind the romanticized imagery of Native people along Route 66, emphasizing the contemporary existence of Indigenous communities within a historical narrative.

Connection to the Earth: A Profound Lesson

For Kevin, his connection to the land and agriculture has been a source of patience, humility, and understanding. He acknowledges his role as a part of a larger cycle and emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between human action and the environment. His engagement with agriculture has taught him not only the practicalities of farming but also invaluable life lessons. “You have to have that relationship in order to have an understanding of what this world truly is,” Kevin emphasizes, underlining the depth of wisdom that comes from cultivating the land.

“I started at it when I started working at the cultural center in Albuquerque. I took on a position of an Education Department assistant. They had a field where I was like, “Damn, I haven’t done farming or gardening in so long.” And I did it. It sparked that feeling of, “It’s important to carry this on, not only for me, but for my future kids or my family.” So that definitely was a pretty big blessing to be able to have that in my life growing up.”

Kevin’s journey is a reminder that while technology and modernity may reshape the world, the bond between humans and the land remains unbreakable. His story invites us to reflect on the importance of maintaining cultural practices, preserving traditions, and nurturing the Earth that sustains us. It serves as a preview of the full interview, a window into a narrative that inspires and enlightens—a narrative that reminds us of our roots and the essential role they play in our lives.

Safeguarding Traditions: Navigating Identity and Agriculture

“You’re living your Native life and then you’re living your urban city life, which is very much different. And sometimes, you tend to stray from one or the other. And that’s what really is a big part of defining who you are. It’s hard to find that common ground when you don’t really have your community around and you don’t really have people who can relate to that very often.”

As Kevin’s journey unfolds, it becomes evident that his connection to agriculture isn’t just about planting seeds; it’s about safeguarding traditions and identities. He delves into the deep-rooted emergence stories of Indigenous people across the continent, stories that underscore their intimate connection to the land. For Kevin and many like him, the land isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a part of who they are. These stories challenge the modern notion of ownership and emphasize a sense of stewardship that has been passed down through generations.

In particular, Kevin’s account of planting and harvesting Ohkay Owingeh-Hopi corn with his mother, sister, and niece carries a profound significance. This multi-generational effort highlights the matriarchal aspect of his Zuni community and demonstrates the interconnectedness of family, culture, and agriculture. In an era where cultural practices can be diluted or overshadowed, Kevin’s experience stands as a poignant reminder of the importance of continuity and shared knowledge.

A Lens into Indigenous Narratives: Photography and Identity

Beyond his work in agriculture and advocacy, Kevin is also making waves in the world of photography. With a keen eye for capturing meaningful moments, he has set his sights on projects that amplify Indigenous narratives and perspectives. One such project involves documenting Route 66—a route that often romanticizes and misrepresents Native imagery. Through his lens, Kevin aims to reveal the complexities of existence for Indigenous people who live and interact with these symbolic markers of culture.

In a world where social media and visual narratives hold immense influence, Kevin’s photography serves as a counterbalance to stereotypes and misrepresentations. By capturing the everyday lives of Native individuals and their communities, he not only challenges prevailing perceptions but also offers a more authentic portrayal that reflects the resilience, strength, and diversity of Indigenous people.

Empowerment Through Connection: A Message of Unity

At the heart of Kevin’s story is a message of empowerment through connection. He inspires his community and beyond by demonstrating the power of embracing one’s heritage, advocating for important issues, and pursuing creative expression. His involvement with Tewa United and his photography projects both serve as vehicles for amplifying Indigenous voices and reclaiming narratives that have long been underrepresented.

Kevin’s journey reminds us that we are all part of an interconnected web—a web that encompasses the land, the culture, and the stories that shape us. As we navigate our modern lives, his story encourages us to honor our roots, engage with the land, and uplift the voices that have been marginalized. His pursuit of stewardship over ownership resonates beyond agriculture, offering a valuable perspective on how we can contribute to a more harmonious and inclusive world.

A Glimpse of Wisdom and Hope: Kevin’s Continued Journey

As Kevin’s narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that he is not just a Zuni photographer and advocate; he is a bearer of wisdom, a bridge between generations, and a source of hope for the future. His commitment to connecting with the land, preserving cultural practices, and empowering his community illustrates the power of authenticity and resilience.

The profound lessons he has learned through agriculture and advocacy remind us of the beauty and significance of Indigenous traditions. As we anticipate the full interview transcript, Kevin’s story serves as a poignant preview, inviting us to delve deeper into his journey, his insights, and his invaluable contributions to our collective understanding of culture, identity, and the world around us.

Unveiling the Full Story: Exploring Identity, Agriculture, and Resilience

The full interview transcript with Kevin provides an immersive exploration of his journey, shedding light on the nuances and emotions that have shaped his experiences. Through his words, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges he has faced, the triumphs he has celebrated, and the relationships that have guided him on this path.

One of the most impactful aspects of Kevin’s story is his emphasis on stewardship over ownership. His perspective challenges the conventional ideas of possession and instead promotes a reciprocal relationship with the land. As he describes his connection to the earth, we’re reminded of the significance of these principles in the lives of Indigenous people—a connection that runs deeper than mere sustenance and extends into the realm of culture, spirituality, and identity.

Furthermore, Kevin’s insights into the world of photography offer a glimpse into the power of visual storytelling. His dedication to highlighting Indigenous narratives speaks to the broader need for representation and accurate portrayal in media. By capturing moments that reflect the daily lives, traditions, and struggles of Native individuals, Kevin’s photography becomes a tool for reclamation and empowerment.

In a world where Indigenous voices have often been marginalized, Kevin’s story is a beacon of hope and resilience. His advocacy work with Tewa United illustrates the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue around critical topics, such as healthy sexuality and mental health, particularly within Indigenous youth communities. His commitment to policy work that addresses reproductive and environmental justice underscores the interconnectedness of social, cultural, and environmental issues.

As we look ahead, Kevin’s plans to document agricultural practices and traditions across various Pueblo communities open a new chapter in his journey. His dedication to preserving these practices, sharing stories, and fostering connections among Native people reflects a deep-seated commitment to leaving a legacy for future generations.

Embarking on a Journey of Discovery

Kevin’s story is one of discovery, connection, and the pursuit of understanding. From his ancestral ties to the land to his advocacy work and photography projects, each facet of his journey contributes to a larger narrative of resilience, empowerment, and unity. His willingness to share his experiences, challenges, and triumphs invites us all to embark on a journey of self-discovery and a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures that shape our world.

As we eagerly anticipate the release of the full interview transcript, Kevin’s story provides a glimpse into the profound insights that await us. His voice offers a unique perspective that challenges stereotypes, celebrates identity, and ultimately encourages us to reflect on our own relationship with the land, our heritage, and the narratives that shape our lives. In a world filled with noise, Kevin’s voice stands out as a reminder of the importance of authenticity, connection, and the power of storytelling.