So many of us have felt invisible at one time or another.
We feel passed over, diminished, or unknown. And it takes a toll on our wellbeing.
But many people are continually unseen in their full existence –– because of the color of their skin, the faith they hold, where they live in the world, the resources they don't have, or the various identities they carry.
Not only does that impact an individual’s wellbeing, but when someone is invisible to us, we lose the ability to see them as human. And when someone isn't seen as human, we don't make decisions that consider their existence, their priorities, their needs. That is dehumanizing. And dangerous.
Those of us with more access to role, status, or systemic power have a responsibility to notice who's being unseen and use that power and take action that actually changes circumstances.
We're at a precarious place in our timeline, and for many people, waiting to be seen, chosen, and valued is not an option because the costs continue to be so great.
My guest today kept asking herself, “Why are we not being seen?” She used her skills as a bridge builder, community connector, and fundraiser to build thriving and sustainable organizations and businesses where people in her community are seen in their fullness.
Crystal Echo Hawk (Pawnee) is a nationally recognized strategist, movement builder, and cultural architect shaping the future of narrative power, media, and Indigenous leadership. She is the founder of Indigenous House, a next-generation global entertainment, culture, and lifestyle brand working with visionary Indigenous and diverse creators to shape culture across film, digital, and emerging platforms. Previously, she founded and led IllumiNative, driving a transformative shift in Indigenous representation nationwide.
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