I’m Jacqueline, a journalist and author. I’ve covered many issues in Indian Country, from Pretendians to the power of the Native vote to the right to water on the Navajo Nation. My relationships with the land and the people drive my coverage.
Pretendians
My investigation of suspected ethnic fraudsters (i.e., "the Alleged Pretendian List") has proven very contentious, which may be why you are here. The list was never published – only privately viewed by American Indian professionals who have encountered suspected frauds working in their respective fields, so it will only be publicly available once published. Below are articles I have written on the topic that are available to read.
I was nominated for a Pulitzer for my Sacheen Littlefeather article in the San Francisco Chronicle.
But my main focus is not ethnic fraud, but my own people. I am a citizen of the Navajo Nation born for the Yankton Dakota Sioux therefore I say:
Kin Ya’áanii nishłį́
Ihanktonwan Dakota bashishchiin
Hashk'ąą hadzohi dashicheii
Ihanktonwan Dakota dashinalí
Ákót’éego diné asdzáán nishłį́
Photo: Jacqueline Keeler
I am happiest with my family and seeing their love for each other and the land. These are our greatest strengths as a people. The pain is real but so is the joy.
It's why I write. I write books, essays, articles to fill the world with Native thoughts, and experiences.
"Eye-opening and compelling . . . required reading for those who would call this land home."
Reviews
"Encompassing wisdom and grace, Edge of Morning is a finessed articulation of respect and the simplicity of being human."
“Keeler makes a compelling case . . . her elucidation of how the domination of the written word over oral storytelling contributes to the unequal application of justice adds fascinating context.”