As a direct descendant of Chief Redheart in the Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho, Tai Simpson takes great pride in serving her community as an organizer, activist and advocate.
Why you should listen
"The Storyteller" is Tai Simpson's name in the Indigenous language of the Nimiipuu nation (Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho). She catalyzed her racial and social justice activism while studying Sociology and Political Philosophy and Public Law at Boise State University. Her experience at Boise State prepared her for the work she does in the community today.Simpson is an organizer for the Indigenous Idaho Alliance. In 2018 and 2019, the Indigenous Idaho Alliance drafted the proclamations for Indigenous Peoples Day for the State of Idaho and the city of Boise. In 2020, the Alliance helped to draft HCR033 Concurrent Resolution acknowledging Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Day that passed in the Idaho legislature in March.
As a Social Change Associate with the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence, she focuses on violence prevention and response within Idaho’s tribal communities. As an antiracism activist and community leader, Simpson uses contemporary and traditional Indigenous storytelling to depict the lens of “old ways” and how they protect the sacred, builds strength in the community and keeps nature in balance; these principles support her work to champion radical inclusion, equity and liberation.
