2025

July 30, 2025 – Native Youth Wellness Program of Lane ESD, Springfield Public Schools, and TransPonder

A Modern Twist on Traditional Knowings with Shuína Skó

An interactive experience where Shuína Skó shared ancestral language, culture, and spoken word poetry. Blending modern storytelling with traditional knowings, they demonstrated how poetry and storytelling connect both the historical and present-day ways of Indigenous people. The performance engaged all ages, with audience participation in songs and games to learn Klamath language words.

June 28, 2025 – Eugene Pride Rally & March

Opening Presenter

Shuína opened the rally with a custom poem that celebrated identity, resilience, and community pride, setting a powerful and inspiring tone for the march.

June 20, 2025 – Klamath Tribes Community Services Program

Spoken Word for Indigenous Elders

Performed original spoken word poetry honoring the experiences, wisdom, and strength of Indigenous elders, creating a heartfelt space for cultural reflection and connection.

June 19, 2025 – Canvasback Books, Klamath Falls

Poetry Reading & Book Signing

Shared original poetry and connected with the community during a live reading and signing event, fostering meaningful conversations about art, identity, and cultural heritage.

June 2, 2025 – PSU & OHSU, 2SLGBTQ+ Health Initiative Series

Connection and Queer Joy

Delivered a talk and performed poetry exploring themes of belonging, resilience, and joy within the Two-Spirit and queer community, offering an affirming and empowering message.

May 23, 2025 – Chiloquin Jr/Sr High School

Cultural Revitalization Library Project

Led a transformative project at a school with a majority Indigenous student population, including painting a 30-foot mural, reviewing and weeding thousands of books, and collaborating with educators, activists, and Indigenous authors to secure culturally affirming books and materials through purchase and donation.

May 22, 2025 – Portland General Electric (PGE)

Two-Spirit Workshop

Facilitated a workshop introducing employees to the history, cultural significance, and contemporary experiences of Two-Spirit people, encouraging respectful allyship in the workplace.

May 16, 2025 – Salem-Keizer Public Schools

Native Education TAPP Attendance Recognition

Performed spoken word poetry, including two original works created specifically for this event, celebrating Native student achievement and attendance.

May 13, 2025 – State of Oregon Department of Human Services

Celebrating the Spectrum of Nonbinary Identities Panel

Participated in a panel discussion and performed poetry at the agency’s annual Pride Conference, highlighting the diversity and resilience of nonbinary and Two-Spirit communities.

April 23, 2025 – The Nature Conservancy & The Klamath Tribal Council

Elements Video Series

Featured in a short film exploring the connection between nature and culture, reflecting on the role of artists in environmental restoration. The series celebrates Klamath Tribes’ leadership in environmental and cultural resilience through personal stories tied to fire, water, and air.

April 11, 2025 – Underground Art Spring Pop-Up, Klamath Falls

Poetry & Art Showcase

Exhibited framed printed poetry pieces and performed spoken word during the opening night, sharing creative work with the local arts community.

March 18, 2025 – Publication

50 Questions To Ask An Elder

Published guided journal designed to support intergenerational knowledge sharing within Indigenous communities, helping preserve cultural wisdom for future generations.

March 5, 2025 – Native American Calling (National Radio Program)

Interview: Trans Native Americans Face a New Wave of Resistance

Discussed the rollback of favorable laws and policies impacting Native trans residents, sharing personal and community perspectives on the current public climate and the future.

March 4, 2025 – Publication

We Are The People – Naat A Maklaks – Coloring Book

Published children’s coloring book featuring designs from the Ewksiknii homelands, celebrating language and culture through art.

February 7, 2025: – Publication

Love Me

Published pocketbook that explores the vulnerability and power of love.

January 20, 2025 – Publication

Frybread Power

Published pocketbook that celebrates Indigenous resiliency and innovation in the face of colonization.

January 13, 2025 – Publication

You Are Not Alone

Published pocketbook that offers hope for suicide prevention and healing.

January 3, 2025 – Publication

Her Love

Published pocketbook that honors the many ways a woman loves.

2024

December 2024 – Publication

Warrior Roses, Big Love – mo stinta, and Two-Spirit Journeying

Published expanded second editions of these three books to offer readers new insights, poems, and reflections.

November 24, 2024 – Featured Article: “Becoming Shuína Sko”

Shuína was profiled in a feature article published at local, statewide, and national levels, sharing their journey, artistry, and commitment to community empowerment.

November 8, 2024 – State of Oregon

Native Heritage Festival Poetry Performance

As part of the statewide celebration of Native heritage, Shuína performed original spoken word works that celebrated identity, history, and the living vibrancy of Indigenous cultures.

November 1, 2024 – Virtual Workshop

Book Design & Self-Publishing

Drawing from their own publishing experience, Shuína guided participants through the process of designing and independently publishing a book, empowering emerging authors to share their stories.

October 14, 2024 – Oregon Tech Diversity Center

Spoken Word Performance

In a campus celebration of diversity, Shuína performed original works that invited reflection, empathy, and cultural connection.

September 26, 2024 – Watershed Row Groundbreaking Ceremony

Spoken Word Performance

Shuína’s poetry honored the significance of the space and its connection to the land, community, and shared history.

June 16, 2024 – Portland Community Fair

Spoken Word Performance

Performing for a diverse and welcoming audience, Shuína shared poetry that bridged cultures and inspired solidarity.

June 12, 2024 – Central Oregon Queer Gathering

Poetry Performance

Shuína’s spoken word performance celebrated queer joy, Indigenous resilience, and the power of authentic storytelling.

June 5, 2024 – Annual Pride Conference

Panel Participation

As a panelist, Shuína contributed to discussions uplifting the 2sLGBTQ+ community, sharing insight into Two-Spirit identity and fostering pathways for greater inclusion.

May 26, 2024 – 21st Annual Salmon Run

Poetry Performance

Shuína shared spoken word poetry honoring the traditions and unity of California and Oregon tribes during this annual event dedicated to cultural heritage and environmental stewardship.

May 22, 2024 – Indigenous Therapeutic Guide

Sound Bath & Poetry Session

In partnership with an Indigenous therapeutic practitioner, Shuína integrated spoken word poetry into a sound bath session, creating an immersive and healing experience for participants.

May 18, 2024 – National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Klamath County

Warrior Roses Poetry Reading

At this annual event on ewksiknii homelands, Shuína performed selections from Warrior Roses, honoring the intersection of mental health awareness, healing, and cultural pride.

May 8, 2024 – Indigenous Peoples Art Collective

Spoken Word Performance

Shuína performed original works that celebrated Indigenous artistry and community resilience, weaving poetry with cultural storytelling.

May 3, 2024 – National Day of Awareness for Murdered & Missing Indigenous People Gathering

Spoken Word Performance

Shuína shared their poem No More Goodbyes from the forthcoming collection No More Missing & Murdered Indigenous Relatives: Book of Poetry. At the District Attorney’s request, the poem was displayed at the Klamath County Courthouse as part of the day’s commemoration.

April 30, 2024 – Oregon Community Foundation

Indigenous Arts & Cultures Interview

Shuína was interviewed as part of an effort to increase support for Indigenous arts and cultures, contributing ideas for sustainable approaches, new partnerships, and systemic changes to uplift Indigenous creative expression.

April 5, 2024 – Klamath Tribes Sacred Burial Sites Committee

Treasurer & Secretary Appointment

Shuína accepted the nomination to serve as Treasurer and Secretary, contributing their voice and leadership to the protection and honoring of sacred burial sites.

March 28, 2024 – Washington State University

Raise Your Voice Series

As part of the Raise Your Voice series, Shuína delivered a moving performance that explored the complexities and vibrancy of Indigenous life and the Two-Spirit community, inspiring understanding and allyship.

March 13, 2024 – Southern Oregon University

Queer Indigenous Gathering

Shuína facilitated a workshop and performed spoken word poetry for participants, highlighting the beauty of Indigenous cultural practices and beliefs while fostering dialogue on the intersection of queerness and Indigeneity.

March 9, 2024 – Local Saskatchewan Venue, Saskatoon

Spoken Word Performance

That same evening, Shuína performed an intimate set of spoken word poetry at a local venue, sharing powerful stories that illuminated the vibrancy and resilience of Indigenous and Two-Spirit experiences.

March 9, 2024 – University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon

Keynote Presentation: Queering as Community

As keynote speaker for the “Queering as Community: Making Space in the Classroom” conference, Shuína explored the harmful impacts of homophobic, transphobic, and colonial policies on vulnerable communities. They shared insight into the Two-Spirit identity and offered guidance on building bridges toward safety and inclusion.

February 7–13, 2024 – Oregon Poetry Out Loud

Statewide Contest Judge

Shuína served as a judge for Oregon’s Poetry Out Loud, a free program open to all high school students that encourages a deep engagement with American poetry through memorization and performance. Their participation supported young voices in finding confidence, skill, and connection through the art of spoken word.

January 26, 2024 – Klamath County Museum

A Poet’s Perspective: History and Poetry in the Klamath Basin

Shuína’s poetry was featured in this special program exploring the intersection of poetry and history in the Klamath Basin. The event highlighted historically significant poems about the region, alongside works from Shuína, O.C. Applegate, Laura Chiloquin, and others, inviting attendees to reflect on the cultural and historical narratives woven through verse.

2023

Nov 26, 2023 – Spork Restaurant

“Honoring The Roots Of Connection”

In-person poetry performance centering the Indigenous Two-Spirit experience, addressing community harm, and uplifting cultural resilience.

Nov 11, 2023 – Native Heritage Festival, Grants Pass

Featured Poetry Performance

In-person performance celebrating Indigenous culture through art, allyship training, local vendors, and traditional foods.

Oct 21, 2023 – Grand Ronde Museum

Cultural Storytelling & Poetry Workshop

In-person workshop for Field’s Artist Fellowship blending cultural storytelling, poetry, and dialogue to deepen community connection.

Oct 11, 2023 – Allstate “Native & Pride” Event

Keynote & Poetry Performance

Virtual keynote address and poetry performance highlighting the beauty, challenges, and resilience of the Two-Spirit identity.

Sept 27–29, 2023 – Tribal-State ICWA Conference

Identity Workshop & Poetry Performance

In-person conference opening with poetry and a facilitated workshop on identity, cultural competency, and allyship.

Sept 8, 2023 – Oregon Humanities

“Sacred Instructions” Feature Article

Virtual profile by Derek DeForest exploring Indigenous storytelling, identity, and cultural preservation.

Aug 19, 2023 – BIPOC Wellness Retreat, Silverton

Cultural Identity Workshop

In-person workshop guiding participants in exploring identity, reclaiming voice, and connecting with cultural roots.

July 30, 2023 – LIVE! on Elgin

Featured Poet Performance

In-person performance blending spoken word poetry and cultural teachings to foster empathy and connection.

June 22, 2023 – University of Iowa Pride Panel

Poetry & Panel Discussion

Virtual poetry performance and panel conversation on trauma, resilience, and LGBTQIA2S+ lived experiences.

June 15, 2023 – ODHS PRIDE Conference

Poetry & Cultural Dialogue

Virtual poetry performance and panel on intergenerational queer experiences and the importance of inclusive spaces.

June 7, 2023 – Western Region Tribe/State ICWA Gathering

Poetry Performance

Spoken word poetry for the closing ceremony honoring families, children, and the preservation of Indigenous identity.

May 19, 2023 – Klamath Tribal Health

Videography For New Building Opening

Custom video production highlighting the spirit of the new community health space.

May 18, 2023 – Out in the Wild Festival, Smith Rock State Park

Two-Spirit & LGBTQIA+ Cultural Session

Poetry and cultural teachings celebrating identity, diversity, and the land.

May 5, 2023 – Tribal Attendance Promising Practices (TAPP) Symposium

Poetry on MMIWG2S & Identity

Performance addressing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people, suicide prevention, education, and cultural identity.

Apr 28, 2023 – Fatherhood & Motherhood Is Sacred Training

Poetry Performance

Impromptu poetry performance honoring the roles of parents and cultural teachings.

Mar 29, 2023 – Oregon DHS Flag Raising Ceremony

Poetry & Cultural Teachings

Poetry from She Is Matriarch and teachings on cultural strength.

Mar 27, 2023 – IllumiNative

Poetic Affirmations Project

Custom creation of nine poetic affirmations designed to empower Indigenous women and promote self-determination.

Mar 21, 2023 – Lane Literary Guild & Eugene Public Library “Windfall” Series

Poetry Reading

Virtual poetry reading sharing Indigenous perspectives, resilience, and creativity.

Mar 14, 2023 – Southern Oregon University Queer Indigenous Gathering

Poetry Performance

Performance featuring selections from multiple books, celebrating queer Indigenous voices.

Mar 13, 2023 – Oregon Wraparound Portland State University

ICWA Staff Training

Virtual training on the Indian Child Welfare Act, cultural sensitivity, and trauma-informed practice.

Feb 22, 2023 – Morrison Child & Family Services

Trauma-Informed Cultural Sensitivity Training

In-person training integrating poetry to deepen understanding of Indigenous history, resilience, and healing.

Feb 19, 2023 – Publication

Heart Poems for the Hopeless Romantic

Published poetry collection exploring love, vulnerability, and emotional truth.

Jan 29, 2023 – Sacramento LGBT Community Center “Queer Voices” Event

Poetry Performance

Spoken word performance celebrating queer identity and community solidarity.

Jan 11, 2023 – The Cheíí Show

Guest Appearance & Poetry Reading

Virtual guest appearance sharing poetry and cultural insights.

Jan 11, 2023 – Canvasback Books

Author Highlight

Virtual feature spotlighting the author’s work and cultural mission.

2022

December 13, 2022 — Gemic

Expert Interview on LGBTQIA+ Social Media Harm and Improvement

Shuína shared their expertise in a virtual interview with Gemic, a strategy and innovation consultancy. The conversation focused on addressing harm and improving LGBTQIA+ experiences on social media in the US, with special attention to vulnerable and stressed communities and individuals.

December 9, 2022 — Urban Legends Poetry Collective, Origin Arts & Community Centre, Ottawa

Spoken Word Poetry Performance

Shuína performed spoken word poetry from SHE IS MATRIARCH during the open mic event, alongside headlining poet Sydellia Ndiaye.

December 7, 2022 — Riverbed Reads & Qu’ART Collaboration, Ottawa

Spoken Word Performance

Performed during an open mic event designed to heighten LGBTQ2S+/queer artistic activity and foster intersectional discourse in the Capital Region, sharing the stage with notable artists and musicians.

November 30, 2022 — Riverbed Reading Series, Club SAW Art Gallery, Ottawa

Open Mic Spoken Word Poetry

Featured as a poet during the “S3: iteration three” event alongside Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa artists, enriching the vibrant local literary scene.

October 25, 2022 — State of Oregon Department of Human Services Tribal Affairs

Tribal-State ICWA Conference Presentation & Workshop

Presented spoken word poetry and shared teachings on the custom logo/theme “We are not the ripples, we are the drop,” emphasizing cultural pride, personal responsibility, and the ongoing importance of tribal culture to attendees from tribal and state agencies.

October 20, 2022 — Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare, Clackamas Office

Training on Contemporary Tribal Issues and Healing Practices

Led a session addressing the origins of contemporary challenges faced by tribal communities, while integrating spoken word poetry and exploring culturally rooted healing practices.

October 4, 2022 — The Klamath Tribes, Goos Ogli Gowa Cultural Center

First Foods Roundtable Participation

Served as an honored guest at a facilitated discussion focused on the management, restoration, and cultural significance of First Foods for the Klamath Tribes

September 24, 2022 — You Matter to Klamath / Klamath County Multi-Agency Suicide Prevention Coalition

Suicide Prevention Town Hall Closing Performance

Concluded the event with spoken word poetry, including an original piece created specifically to inspire hope and resilience within the community following a powerful keynote and panel discussions.

September 15, 2022 — Literary Arts, Portland

Spoken Word Performance

Performed at Slamlandia, a welcoming poetry slam and open mic fostering a safe, creative space for Portland’s literary communities, hosted by poet Julia Gaskill.

August 30, 2022 — Publication

SHE IS MATRIARCH: Poetry For The Indigenous Feminine Spirit

Published poetry collection dedicated to nurturing and affirming the Indigenous feminine spirit through five inspiring poems.

August 27, 2022 — Klamath Tribes 36th Annual Restoration Celebration

Opening Prayer for Red Shawl Dance

Offered an opening prayer honoring those who have transitioned to the Spirit world, raising awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) and supporting efforts toward healing and justice.

August 27, 2022 — Canvasback Books, Klamath Falls

Poetry Reading and Book Signing

Presented a reading and signing event featuring SHE IS MATRIARCH at a beloved local independent bookstore.

August 25, 2022 — BIPOC Reading Series (Virtual)

Spoken Word Performance

Participated in a virtual reading series that centers and prioritizes the creativity and stories of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities.

August 17, 2022 — Klamath County Child Abuse Prevention Coalition, Oregon Tech

Opening Presenter, “How Human Trafficking Affects Us All” Symposium

Delivered the opening presentation at a community-focused symposium addressing the impact of human trafficking.

August 16, 2022 — Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act Bulletin

Honored as “ICWA Warrior”

Recognized for exceptional advocacy, dedication, and heartfelt work supporting tribal children, families, and the spirit of ICWA through art and lived experience.

August 14, 2022 — Stewart Indian School, Carson City

Poetry Reading at Remembrance Run Closing Ceremony

Performed poetry honoring survivors and the memory of Indigenous peoples impacted by US Indian Boarding Schools.

August 10, 2022 — The Klamath Tribes Education & Employment Department

Youth Workshop: Empowering Our Youth 2022 Summit

Led a workshop encouraging Indigenous youth to embrace their cultural identity and heritage.

August 9, 2022 — 12 Tides Organic Kelp Snacks

Video Collaboration on Ocean Conservation

Created a video sharing Indigenous perspectives on ocean and water protection for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.

August 1, 2022 — Indigenous Peoples Power Project

Poem Creation and Recording

Contributed an original poem for IP3’s Indigenous empowerment video project.

July 23, 2022 — Community Event, Klamath County

Poetry Reading at Rally for the C’waam & Koptu

Performed at an event advocating for water conservation, land restoration, and protection of endangered fish species critical to Indigenous ecosystems.

July 19, 2022 — Future Thought Leader Program

Guest Expert Presentation

Shared insights with feminists and queer activists seeking to make a positive impact in their communities.

July 16, 2022 — Klamath Pride 2022

Poetry Performance

Performed at Pride celebrations supported by local organizations fostering safe and inclusive spaces.

June 7, 2022 — Oregon Department of Human Services PRIDE Employee Resource Group

Conference Presentation: “Intricacies of the Two-Spirit Experience”

Explored the unique identity of Two-Spirit people through storytelling and spoken word, highlighting intersections between tribal, queer, and colonial cultures.

June 1, 2022 — Publication

Two-Spirit Journeying: Flowing In & Out of Love

Published poetry collection exploring self-reflection, love, and heartbreak through the lens of Two-Spirit and queer identities.

May 27, 2022 — Klamath Tribal Health & Family Services Youth and Family Guidance Center, Ross Ragland Theater

Opening Presenter for “Restoration of the Spirit” Theater Performance

Presented the opening remarks for a community theater event focused on healing and cultural restoration.

May 5, 2022 — The Klamath Tribes Social Services Department

Poetry Reading at MMIP Community Event

Offered spoken word honoring victims and families affected by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis.

May 1, 2022 — Publication

BIG LOVE – mo stinta: Poetry Honoring Indigenous Resiliency

Published poetry collection aimed at uplifting and encouraging Indigenous communities through stories of resilience.

April 4, 2022 — National Indian Child Welfare Association

Presenter at NICWA 40th Annual Protecting Our Children Conference

Presented in the “Breaking Barriers: Tribal Child Welfare and ODHS Collaboration” workshop, focusing on collaborative efforts to support Indigenous children and families.

April 1, 2022 — Publication

WARRIOR ROSES: Indigenous Stories Through Poetry

Published poetry collection addressing historical trauma, resilience, and Indigenous strength through powerful storytelling.

March 15, 2022 — Oregon Department of Human Services District 11

Equity Hour Guest Presenter

Provided cultural competency training focused on tribal customs, traditions, and values to enhance service delivery to Indigenous communities.

March 5, 2022 — Herald and News

Featured Article: “Klamath language ties directly to Klamath culture”

Interviewed and featured in a news story exploring the deep connection between language and culture in the Klamath community.

January–February, 2022 — The Klamath Tribes & Oregon Department of Human Services

Indian Child Welfare Act Case Manager and Liaison

Served as a liaison facilitating communication and support between the Klamath Tribes and state child welfare agencies.

2021

December 17, 2021 — The Klamath Tribes Administration

Poetry Reading at All Staff Meeting

Shuína performed a heartfelt poetry reading for The Klamath Tribes Administration during their all-staff meeting, fostering cultural connection and inspiration among attendees.

December 6, 2021 — Oregon Department of Human Services District 7 PRIDE Employee Resource Group

Guest Speaker for Monthly ERG Training

Invited as a guest speaker, Shuína engaged ODHS District 7 employees with an empowering presentation during their PRIDE Employee Resource Group monthly training session.

November 30, 2021 — The Klamath Tribes Children & Family Services / Citizens Review Board

Presenter for Cultural Workshop

Led a cultural workshop for the Klamath and Lake Counties Citizens Review Board, hosted by The Klamath Tribes Children & Family Services program, supporting culturally informed child welfare practices.

November 9, 2021 — The Klamath Tribes Children & Family Services Retreat

Presenter for ODHS District 11 Child Welfare and Klamath Tribes Social Services Retreat

Delivered a culturally focused presentation to staff during a retreat aimed at strengthening collaboration between ODHS District 11 Child Welfare and The Klamath Tribes Social Services.

October 29, 2021 — The Klamath Tribes Children & Family Services / ICWA Tribal Court

Presenter for ICWA Tribal Court Cultural Workshop

Facilitated a cultural workshop for ICWA Tribal Court staff and stakeholders, including judges, attorneys, ODHS employees, CASA, and Citizens Review Board members, enhancing understanding of tribal culture within court proceedings.

October 12, 2021 — Office of Tribal Affairs

Presenter for 2021 Tribal/State Indian Child Welfare Act Conference

Presented at the annual ICWA Conference to tribal and state child welfare professionals across Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes, sharing insights on cultural practices and tribal sovereignty.

August 20, 2021 — Office of Tribal Affairs

Presenter for Southern ICWA Quarterly Meeting

Delivered a presentation to ODHS Child Welfare districts 6, 7, 8, 10, and 11, alongside representatives from multiple tribes including Coquille, CTCLUSI, Cow Creek, CTWS, and The Klamath Tribes, focusing on ICWA-related collaboration and cultural education.

June 3, 2021 — Office of Tribal Affairs

Opening Presenter for ORICWA Webinar “Placement Preferences”

Served as the opening presenter for the ORICWA webinar, addressing placement preferences within Indian Child Welfare, attended by child welfare staff from all nine federally recognized Oregon tribes.

January–May, 2021 — Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare

Cultural Consultation Services Provider

Provided ongoing cultural consultation to the state child welfare agency, assisting with culturally sensitive practices and support tailored to Indigenous children and families