Meet Dominique Daye Hunter, an Afro-Indigenous storyteller, inspirational speaker, advocate, and artist with a focus on poetry and sustainable fashion. She is the author of ‘Seeds: Stories of Afro-Indigenous Resilience’ and the CEO of D. Daye Hunter Designs LLC. Through her writing and visual art, Dominique delves into the intricate links between historical trauma, creating safe spaces, and healing within Black and Indigenous communities. Her book is available in various retail locations and featured in over eight library systems nationwide.
Additionally, she serves as the Project Manager for the Yesá Language Immersion and Lifeways Conference, a key initiative under Monuments Across Appalachian Virginia. Through her various roles, Dominique provides workshops on healing through storytelling, stress management for Black and Indigenous communities, and empowerment. She also offers DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) training to foster more inclusive environments. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Leadership Management with an emphasis in American Indian Studies, Dominique splits her time between Durham, NC, and Phoenix, AZ, constantly working to uplift her communities through education, art, and advocacy.
Book Synopsis:
Seeds: Stories of Afro-Indigenous Resilience is a powerful collection of poetry by Dominique Daye Hunter that delves into the histories, intergenerational trauma, personal healing, and resilience of the Afro-Indigenous diaspora.
Focusing on Afro-Indigenous peoples in the southeastern United States, Daye Hunter’s work reflects her journey of reclaiming her traditional Yesá/Saponi culture and spirituality alongside her African heritage. This ancestrally informed collection illuminates the multifaceted experience of being a Black and Native woman, addressing themes such as reproductive justice, food sovereignty, water rights, environmental racism, systemic racism, self-love, and healing. Through Seeds, Daye Hunter offers a poignant exploration of identity, resistance, and the enduring spirit of Afro-Indigenous communities.
Inspiration Behind the Book:
The inspiration behind the book stems from Dominique’s profound desire to share her experiences as an Afro-Indigenous, neurodivergent woman navigating chronic illness and pain while healing from intergenerational trauma. Her goal is to remind Afro-Indigenous communities of their resilience and the hope that exists for tomorrow. The journey from the initial 2018 edition of Seeds to the current full-length collection mirrors Dominique’s personal growth, enriched by the stories of her ancestors, family, and historical figures. This book stands as a testament to the strength of Afro-Indigenous people and a call to continue healing and reclaiming their rightful place in the world. Dominique’s family, especially her Daye Afro-Saponi relatives, provided the love and motivation for this book and the vision for a better future for all.
For more about Dominique Daye Hunter and her work, follow her on Instagram @ddayehunter
