About Tai

Tai Simpson is “The Storyteller” in the indigenous language of the Nimiipuu nation (Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho). She is a direct descendant of Chief Redheart and serves her community as an organizer, activist, and advocate. Tai studied Sociology and Political Philosophy & Public Law at Boise State University. During her time at Boise State she catalyzed her racial and social justice activism. 

In the community, she serves as an organizer for the Indigenous Idaho Alliance. In 2018 and 2019, the Indigenous Idaho Alliance drafted the proclamations for Indigenous Peoples Day at the city and state levels. In 2020, the Alliance helped to draft HCR033 Concurrent Resolution acknowledging Missing & Murdered Indigenous Peoples Day that passed in the Idaho legislature in March.   

As a Social Change Associate with the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence, Tai focuses on addressing violence prevention and response within Idaho’s tribal communities. In 2019, Tai gave a TEDxBoise talk which explored the belief that Indigenous “old ways” need to come back in style, made new. The old ways are principles on which many Indigenous communities build their social and political narratives. As an antiracism activist and community leader, she uses contemporary and traditional Indigenous storytelling to depict the lens of “old ways” and how it is used to protect the sacred, build strength in the community, and keep nature in balance.