“Because of our Native history, we know what being silenced is like,” said Nayah. “This was a great opportunity for us to share our work and inspire and encourage other artists, especially Native artists, to express creativity and share who they are through unifying art.”
“We’re letting people know it’s safe to share creative differences,” said Chanthavy. “We can create and join communities through our art and our creativity — don’t be afraid to express yourselves in any medium.”
The logo features a Roadrunner, a culturally significant animal in the region, designed by Nayah, set against a traditional basket image from Myra Masiel-Zamora from the Pechanga Band of Indians, designed by Chanthavy, symbolizing the strength and interconnectedness of community collaboration.
The design marks a historic milestone as the first Kumeyaay-created logo for an Indigenous Futures Institute event. In addition to their artistic contribution, both Alvarado sisters will share their creative journeys as presenters on the Indigi-Con youth comic artist panel and as presenters for a San Diego Comic-Con panel.
By sharing cultural wisdom and lived experience, Native community members continue to shape public health policy and practice while demonstrating the power of storytelling, art, youth leadership and Indigenous knowledge as public health strategies. This work continues to expand through new collaborations, student groups and community-centered programming that strengthens Native leadership and cultural connection.