Urban Warrior: Tatanka Means

Photo by Mihio Manus

Tatanka Means (Oglala Lakota / Omaha / Dine`) of Albuquerque, NM is an Actor, Stand up Comedian and owner of Tatanka Clothing. He is also the son of activist Russell Means, he tells UNGS the ten things he can't live without. 

1. My C’anunpa (sacred pipe)  

It is the way I grew up. It is what I know. It is my way of life. I try to live the best positive lifestyle I can because of this responsibility. 

2. My woman, Christine Begay
She’s my secret weapon, I consult her on everything. She’s so cool I asked her to marry me, she said yes.

3. My iNdN Bling 
My Tommy Singer silver bracelets, TC beaded medallion, giant turquoise necklace and my ring I feel naked without it. I really like big jewelry. 

4. The gym
It’s a love hate relationship. Working out is essential for a healthy heart, it works hard for me so I should work hard for it. Plus I think the endorphins released after a good sweat helps to keep a positive attitude.

5. Tatanka Clothing
Because the designs are sick and all the shirts are printed on American Apparel and thats the only kind of shirt I wear.

6. My screen press 
It’s my primary source of income, it’s where I make magic and it also gives me the time to concentrate on other things when I need to.

7. Sharpie Pen and Moleskine note pad journal 
I always need these in my pocket for when I think of something funny or a good idea or just for general note taking. 

8. My laptop
Christine hooked me up on my birthday with my macbook. I use it for many different things. Email, designing, printing, sending auditions, editing etc. I don’t have a cool internet phone so I have to do it all on my laptop.

9. My Jeep Grand Cherokee 
It gets me where I need to be when I need to be there; auditions, shows, home. It has just enough space inside to pack in all my tables and bins of shirts for my booth whenever I set up.

10. Salsa only from New Mexico 
The best salsa and chile in the world is in New Mexico. My top two choices are Genaros and Sadies. I like it fiery spicy hot. 

Inspired by Toronto Life's 'City Survivor' pages, UNGS is selecting Indigenous individuals from all over who represent what it is to be a Native person living in today's modern world and how we decide to navigate it.

NB: Tatanka Means' Official Site
         Tatanka Clothing MySpace page
         Tatanka Means' MySpace page

See other Urban Warrior's here:
Waawaate Fobister
Tatanka Means 
Erika Archer
Anthony Collins (aka Thosh)
Lisa Charleyboy 
Brian Frejo 
Sage Paul 
Doug (AKA Plex) Bedard 
Julie Lafreniere