Staff

Tia Bahozhoni is a Policy Specialist for NIWRC. Tia is a Diné woman (Naashashí/Bear Clan born for Tsédeeshghiiznii/Rock Gap Clan) and grew up in Shiprock, New Mexico. She learned about her Diné culture through attending ceremonies, hearing her language through songs, and participating in traditional agricultural practices. Growing up, Tia was influenced by relatives who excelled creatively through different art forms such as weaving, sculpting, and painting. She hopes to carry these lessons and passions in all aspects of life. 

She earned her B.A. in English-communications, with a minor in Socio-Anthropology, from Fort Lewis College. She later earned her M.A. in Anthropology from the University of Colorado—Denver, with a focus in Medical Anthropology. While completing her graduate program, her areas of interest were migrant health and drug syndemics. 

As a Policy Specialist for NIWRC, Tia helps identify and research policy priorities and provides training and technical assistance regarding policy priority areas. She also ensures that the NIWRC’s policy work, systems engagement, and resource development are culturally, historically, and legally relevant and supports governmental, nonprofit, and community responses to the immediate crisis needs of Native women victimized by violence and the social change work inherent in ending violence against Native women.