I Voted

A Diné story about the power of voting.

On a quiet morning shortly after sunrise, Mina sets out on a long walk with her beloved Nalí Asdzaan, grandmother, toward the chapter house. Along the dusty road, across bridges and past memories etched into the land, Mina listens as her grandmother shares stories of their Diné community—of hardship and resilience, of schools built, roads paved, and voices once silenced.

As Mina learns about her language and her people past and present, she begins to understand why this walk matters. It is not just a journey to vote, but a journey through history, sacrifice, and hope. Through her grandmother’s gentle teachings, Mina discovers the power of community, the importance of remembering the past, and the responsibility of shaping the future.

A heartfelt story of heritage, civic responsibility, and intergenerational wisdom, this book honors the strength of Diné families and reminds young readers that every voice matters.

Felicite Joe is a proud member of the Navajo Tribe, residing in the beautiful community of Kayenta, Arizona. As a dedicated teacher, Felicite is passionate about inspiring and educating the next generation of learners in her local community. She is married and a loving mother of three children, who motivate her to create stories that celebrate their culture and heritage. Felicite is a graduate of the University of Arizona, where she honed her skills and developed her love for teaching and storytelling. Through her writing, Felicite aims to share the rich traditions and values of the Navajo people, connecting young readers with their cultural roots and inspiring them to embrace their identities.

Deonoveigh Mitchell is originally from Chinle, AZ. Her culture & art are a beautiful blend of her Afro Indigeneity. She is Tł'ááshchí'í (Red Bottom People/mother) and Naahiłii (Black American/father), her maternal grandfather is T'ábaahí (Water’s Edge), and her paternal grandfather is Naahiłii (Black American). Her colorful inspirations come from childhood memories growing up on the Navajo Nation, places she’s traveled to, and by beautiful people in her life, especially her daughter. Authentic cultural representation is the core of everything she does. In her 16± years as an Educator, she has worked with grades pre-k through high school. She also facilitates various art and literacy workshops with companies, school districts, and families.