Citizen of the Klamath Nation
Shuína Skó (meaning “Singing Spring” in their ewksiknii language) is an Indigenous poet, storyteller, and cultural educator whose work bridges ancestral knowings with contemporary expression. Their poetry and teachings create authentic spaces where Indigenous heritage, Two-Spirit identity, and community resilience are honored and uplifted.
They are one of the most sought-after Indigenous spoken word poets in North America, having performed, keynoted, and facilitated workshops at universities, government agencies, schools, and community events across the U.S. and Canada. Their work has reached wide audiences through platforms such as Native American Calling, Oregon Humanities, and events including Portland State University & OHSU’s 2SLGBTQ+ Health Initiative, the Native Youth Wellness Program, and the University of Saskatchewan’s Queering as Community conference.
As the author of more than a dozen poetry collections and cultural resources — including 50 Questions to Ask an Elder, She Is Matriarch, and We Are the People – Naat A Maklaks – Coloring Book — Shuína preserves intergenerational knowledge while celebrating Indigenous resilience and creativity. Their books are available through Amazon, Powell’s Books, libraries, schools, and cultural centers throughout North America.
With over 10 years of professional experience in mental and behavioral health, particularly within Tribal and marginalized communities, Shuína brings trauma-aware, trauma-responsive, and trauma-informed practices into every workshop and presentation. Their background includes working closely with Tribal and State Child Welfare agencies on the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), facilitating at youth treatment centers, and serving as a case manager providing direct services to children and families.
Alongside their artistic work, Shuína leads community-based cultural preservation projects, including revitalizing the Chiloquin Jr/Sr High School library with Indigenous-centered resources and serving on the Klamath Tribes Sacred Burial Sites Committee.
Through performance, teaching, and storytelling, Shuína empowers participants to embrace cultural competency, deepen allyship, and engage in practices that foster both healing and societal change. Their unique approach—interweaving language, storytelling, and spoken word poetry—offers audiences not only knowledge, but connection, inspiration, and hope for future generations.
Workshops
Workshops, presentations, and performances are provided virtually and in-person throughout the United States and Canada