Phoenix Lara is a Two-Spirit visionary of the Yaqui Tribe who has spent over two decades advancing visibility, cultural leadership, and community empowerment for Two-Spirit people. Since 1999, Phoenix has been a key part of BAAITS, opening doors, shifting narratives, and supporting Native organizations across the Bay Area.

Reclaiming who we are has been part of the vision to build Two Spirit community. BAAITS was formed thru a small cohort in 1999, I was part of this small cohort that launched the vision and dream.

Preserving history and telling our stories is not simply about sharing our stories to the greater Native community & LGBT community, it is about preserving the conditions that allow future generations to imagine themselves, know themselves, and build upon the work that came before them.

As the original drum keeper for the BAAITS Two-Spirit Drum, Phoenix has taught traditional songs, led drum circles, and mentored new drum keepers while drumming at hundreds of events and powwows. A writer and published poet, Phoenix continues to honor ancestors and uplift future generations through song, story, and community leadership.