Dibé bei iiná—Sheep is Life: The introduction of sheep to the Diné People was a pivotal point in Diné history. We are the only people in North America who have adjusted to new life ways within a few centuries since colonial contact. From grazing through the changing of seasons, to weaving durable blankets, learn about the pastoral and shepherding life ways of the Diné and our relation with sheep and wool.

About the Keynote Presenter:

Nikyle Begay (they/them) is a Diné shepherd, fiber artist, teacher, storyteller, and photographer based in Ganado, Arizona on the Navajo Nation. Nikyle is a co-founder of Rainbow Fiber Co-Op, a Co-Op that began in 2020 to improve the financial sustainability and equitable market outcomes for the remaining flocks of Navajo-Churro sheep on the Navajo Nation. Rainbow Fiber Co-Op’s mission was to close the gap between rural Diné shepherds and an e-commerce marketplace for their wool. Nikyle has experience working in technology and the nonprofit sector, as well as an extensive background in sheep flock management, wool production, traditional to modern wool processing, and the weaving arts.