SOUTHWEST SEMINARS: My Genízaro Roots

Presented by: Istara Freedom

Writer, Researcher and Artist. An honorary member of the Merced del Pueblo de Abiquiu. A great granddaughter of Genízaro (Hispanicized indigenous captives in Spanish Colonial New Mexico and the greater Southwest) settlers of Las Casitas, near El Rito, in northern New Mexico.

Occurring during a very important chapter in the history of the American Southwest of the United States this journey has allowed me to discover what it means to be a Genízaro descendant. Extensive research within my family’s lineage, their process of migration and loss of connections has led to my own rediscovery and advocacy for both historical research and indigenous land protection.