Dear AzRA,

One of my favorite traditions at AzRA is the trip leader’s morning readings with guests. As a lover of poetry and storytelling, I’m probably biased — but I find this tradition has the potential to offer guests a deep sense of grounding and education while in the Grand Canyon.

Furthermore, I believe one of the best ways to offer alternative perspectives on such a powerful place is to read the words of people unlike myself. Knowing that my own retelling of a story can be colored by my personal lens and values, I try to be especially careful when sharing Indigenous perspectives. I prefer to read the words of Native authors directly, in hopes of more accurately conveying this part of Grand Canyon’s story.

Like many of us, I proudly lug around my own library ammo can. Digging up readings that are not only accurate and meaningful, but also accessible and resonant with our mostly middle/upper-class, white, tourist audiences can be a big job. So, I put this zine together to share some of my own resources with you all. Inside, you’ll find copies of the same stained pages from my own amo can library- my favorite things to read aloud to guests while guiding in the Grand Canyon. Some are short and sweet, while others are longer, deserving a good sit in the shade. I’ve included the source of each piece, along with a brief introduction to the author.

In this collection I have chosen to only include words from non-traditional voices: women, indigenous, queer - the words from anyone other than the usual JWP. My hope is to build a resource for folks that can bring unheard voices to Grand Canyon. I would love to hear from any of you with readings to contribute to this resource.

Warmly,

Seneca