"My St. Lawrence Island Yupik name is Yaari. I was very fortunately raised by my grandparents, Jimmie and Mabel Toolie. I come from the Aymaaramka and Sanighmelnguq clan. I have 7 beautiful children. My youngest was adopted and we are blessed to have her as she is blessed to have us.

I was raised in a traditional Masingka (St. Lawrence Island Yupik) way. I was taught the important lessons, values, and self discipline by my grandparents and my parents. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

Here I am living in two worlds, the St. Lawrence Island Yupik and western way. I live in a city which to me is big; and that’s Anchorage. I struggle as I try to survive in both worlds. Sometimes I feel like I’m being pulled both ways. Somehow, I try to pull myself more towards my culture, but then I realize I need to balance my life with both. Especially if I’m here in the “big” city. It isn’t easy. Although I know my ancestors walk with me as I go through these changes. I feel the presence of my Apa who was a very wise and knowledgeable man when I’m going through tough times. I could hear him telling me, “Aatak aygumun angwaaghnaqi – Keep paddling against the wind."

I feel so far away from home, my culture, and my people. I miss the ocean, I miss the tundra, and I miss the relaxing pace. Yet working for the Alaska Native Heritage Center makes me feel closer to home. I have a lot of good opportunities to educate the outside world about my people and my culture. It makes me feel good. It’s worth while to educate people. Even if I get through to just one person, it matters."

Get the Story:
The Village: 'I miss the ocean' (The Anchorage Daily News 4/7)