Today, we’d like to introduce you to Téh Sanchez.
Hi Téh, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a two-spirit member of the Madesi band of the Pit River Nation. My people are from what is now called Northern California. Being native is my fabric, and it’s my responsibility to uphold that in all things I do. I care about community and connection above all else. I am one of the owners of Turtle Island Coffee Shop. It is one of the first queer indigenous-focused coffee shops in the nation.
We are also the only queer congregating space in Central Oregon. I am the founder of Queer by Nature, a non-profit focused on getting marginalized folks outside and in their bodies. We focus on creating safe spaces for folks who otherwise wouldn’t feel safe to take up space in outdoor sports and areas. Our goal is to create safety within our communities and spread love to all folks.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I was a firefighter for a long time. I learned how to code-switch very well. In the process, I lost myself living for everyone else.
In this process of self-actualization, I blew my entire life up and rebuilt from nothing at 32 years old. I’m thirty-four now and have found my way to happiness through sorrow.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Before I opened up Turtle Island with my dear friend Beth, I threw parties and helped put together events with local business owners and event planners. I’m known for being eccentric and bringing folks together.
This translates well to creating the vibe and community-oriented space that Turtle Island is today. I enjoy art and the magic of building community.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Bend has so many different wonderful things about it. Outdoor recreation all season long, a diverse community is being built, lovely restaurants, and it’s just so darn pretty.
I hope that Bend will eventually become a more diverse place.
Contact Info:
- Email: turtleislandbend@gmail.com
- Instagram: @turtle_island_coffee_shop_
Image Credits
@wildlemoncreative
