Meet Indigenous Skateboarder Naiomi Glasses

Naiomi Glasses is a Diné (Navajo) Weaver/Textile Artist, Cleft Lip Advocate, Designer, Model & Skater.

She started learning how to weave in 2013 at 16 years old and in 2019 she won her first ribbon in weaving at the Gallup, NM Inter Tribal Ceremonial Arts Market where she placed first in the “Utilitarian” category for her handwoven bag.  

In 2021 she launched her first design project and continues to work with companies to bring her weaving designs to life on blankets, mill made rugs, shoes, clothing and bags, allowing her to give back to her Diné community. She says, “weaving as her grandmother Nellie said, is providing her a life.”

Being born with a bilateral cleft lip palate, Naiomi has endured her share of bullies. She wants the youth to know that bullies are everywhere, no matter what age, no matter where you go, people or situations will try to instill fear in you. You have to decide for yourself that you can do anything you want and believe opportunities are out there for you. You can and will find that people will support you too. Naiomi says, “I could blame so many things to fail and to stay down but I have chosen to give myself a chance and root for myself and share that with others."

In October of 2020 she was with her brother looking for sheep and decided to post a video of her skating the red rocks near her home doing the “Doggface Challenge.” Much to her surprise, that video generated 1.4 million organic views, which allowed her followers to see another side to her, skater Naiomi. 

Naiomi is an artist who has used her social media platform to show Diné people and their way of life. She enjoys bringing her culture with her and allowing others to see the beauty of Diné to all she meets. Her goal is to bridge the gap between today’s youth and Diné ancestors by demonstrating the beauty of the Diné (Navajo) Culture through weaving and design.

Her motto is, T’áá hwó’ ají t’éego (It’s up to you), which means for her, your future is up to you. You can choose how to write your story.

In her childhood, Naiomi Glasses faced the harsh reality of bullying, finding solace in the world of skateboarding. A place where she could decompress and be herself. Her passion was unwavering, and she eagerly embraced every opportunity to skate, fostering a profound connection with her surroundings.

Now, at the age of 24, Naiomi fearlessly takes to the skateboard, donning vibrant skirts and traditional Diné garb. Her choice to skate in her own unique style reflects her growing confidence and self-assured femininity. Breaking free from societal norms, she boldly shows the world that skateboarding knows no boundaries.

Weaving Dreams, Designing Change -- Inspired by her grandma Nellie in 2021, Naiomi embarked on her first design project collaborating with renowned companies to bring her weaving designs to life on blankets, rugs, shoes, clothing, and bags. Through her art, she not only nurtures her passion but also bridges the gap between generations, bringing the rich heritage of the Diné (Navajo) people to the forefront.