Yá'át'ééh shik’éí dóó shidine’é. Shí éí Marisa Nez yinishyé.
Welcome to Strong Diné Asdzání
That is who I am. That is who you are. That is who we are.
My name is Marisa Nez, and I am the creator of Strong Diné Asdzání, a space dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and honoring the voices of Navajo women
This is who I am
Always introduce yourself with a firm handshake
I am Ta'neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), born for Naasht'ézhi Tábąąhá (Water Edge Clan). My maternal grandfather is Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People Clan), and my paternal grandfather is Naakai dine'é (The Mexican Clan). I am from Page, Arizona, located just outside the Navajo Reservation, and my grandparents, Viola Redshirt and David Slim, are from LeChee, AZ, and Bittersprings, AZ.
I was raised in Cameron, Arizona, in a humble white trailer powered by an extension cord from my step-father's bimásání's bighaan (maternal grandmother's home). Growing up, we didn't have running water, so we hauled water every week and boiled it on the wood stove. At a young age, my mother (shimá) taught me everything she knows as a Dine Asdzaa .
We often had large family gatherings with cousins and extended family, all connected through our shared heritage. I feel privileged and blessed to have been raised with strong cultural values and encouraged to participate in ceremonies from a young age. As I've grown older, I've come to understand the deep significance of participating in the Native American Church (NAC) and the responsibility of how we carry ourselves, especially as a Diné (Navajo).
Frequently Asked Questions
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In 2022, I stopped drinking alcohol, and my life changed for the better. Over time, as I listened to other women's unique stories, I realized we all have something in common, our experiences are meant to be shared to inspire, and uplift others.
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I’ve discovered that my journey has inspired and supported many young women who needed encouragement. My hope is to continue helping others feel confident and empowered by creating a safe space where they can grow. To do this, I want to share experiences and stories that will help us live a better, more fulfilling life.
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Growing up, I was surrounded by strong, supportive women. My grandmother, mom, and her two older sisters, they showed me the importance of generosity, and family. Their willingness to always be there for others left a lasting impression on me. As the oldest granddaughter on both sides of my family, I naturally fell into a role of mentorship, with younger cousins and siblings often looking to me for guidance. These experiences taught me how important it is to show up for others, especially when they’re struggling. It’s a reminder that being present and offering support can make a real difference in someone’s life.
5 days of Summer fun with my family
We all live our lives differently and similarly, we spend most of our time waking up, going to the gym, then working hard for 8 hrs. Shizhé'é( my father) once said "Work to Live sweetie, don't live to work." And that is exactly what I did. I enjoy working because it offers me a life that I deserve, and by that I mean it allows me to challenge myself. About four years ago, I had $30.00 in my bank account, in debt, and was jobless feeling like I was in a deep hole surrounded by hopeless dreams. One of those dreams were to take my family on a vacation to the ocean. Years later, I am proud to say I did it.
Mom, Dad, and three little brothers
Torrey Pines hiking, La Jolla kayaking with Sea Lions, whale watching tour, Trevor & Edmund flip kayak into ocean..
Inner healing starts with forgiving yourself
Forgive yourself