Rebecca Roanhorse

Rebecca Roanhorse, born in 1971, is an American author recognized for her contributions to science fiction and fantasy, particularly her incorporation of Navajo and other Indigenous American characters and mythology. Her work often bridges traditional Indigenous themes with contemporary speculative fiction, earning her accolades such as the Hugo and Nebula Awards. Roanhorse's writing aims to showcase the vitality and relevance of Indigenous cultures in modern narratives. She has also written for established franchises like Star Wars and Marvel Comics, and contributed to television series.

Despite critical acclaim for her innovative approach to Indigenous storytelling, Roanhorse's tribal affiliation and connection to the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo community have been subjects of public discussion and media attention. Leaders from the Ohkay Owingeh community have stated she is not enrolled and lacks a connection, while Roanhorse has expressed her belief in her maternal family's descent from the community. This has led to debates about identity, cultural appropriation, and the definition of Indigenous literature, with some critics questioning her right to use Indigenous identity in her work.

Rebecca Roanhorse is celebrated for her innovative fusion of Indigenous mythology with science fiction and fantasy genres. Her novels, such as the urban fantasy series starting with *Trail of Lightning* and the secondary fantasy *Between Earth and Sky* series, feature Indigenous characters and settings, often reimagining ancient myths in contemporary or fantastical contexts. Her short story "Welcome to Your Authentic Indian Experience™" garnered significant awards, highlighting her skill in exploring themes of identity and cultural representation. Roanhorse's work is noted for its effort to present Indigenous peoples as living and thriving, moving beyond historical stereotypes. Her career also includes significant contributions to established universes like Star Wars and Marvel, as well as television writing.

Roanhorse's public profile has been marked by questions regarding her enrollment status and connection to the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo community. While she has spoken of her maternal lineage tracing back to the community, Ohkay Owingeh leadership has stated she is not an enrolled member and lacks a legitimate claim to the identity. This has fueled discussions about cultural authenticity and appropriation within Indigenous literature. Critics argue that her lack of formal connection undermines her use of Indigenous narratives, while supporters suggest such scrutiny may be influenced by racial bias or distract from the literary merit of her work. Roanhorse has acknowledged the controversy, stating a desire to be more careful in how she discusses her heritage.

“being a black and Native kid in Fort Worth in the '70s and '80s”

“pretty limiting”

“It would be better if you went away.”

“Tolkien knockoffs about white farm boys going on journeys”

“Native characters that we see are stuck in the past. So it was important for me to...show Native American readers and non-Native American readers that we're alive and we're thriving in our cultures”