So, I’ve been sitting on a surprise for quite some time. 🤫 🫣 I’m one of the subjects in this amazing book by the super talented author,
@jordanritterconn .
Years of interviews, meetings, follow ups, making sure my story was captured accurately, has all culminated in this book about four men grappling with identity, self-awareness, masculinity, and all the struggles in between.
I talked about what it was like growing up in the 1900’s in Akwesasne, struggling with my personal and sexual identity, being forced off sports teams, my familial relationships, struggling with city life when I moved away, the transition to moving back to the reservation, my time as an MMA athlete and some gym/training stories, my relationship with my partner and how we made it work…it’s all there (for the most part).
I did the one thing I’ve never done: opened myself up, wholeheartedly, and pulled no punches. Bared all…the good, the bad, the ugly, the struggles, the triumphs, family struggles, all leading to my happily ever after. I had the option to have my name changed and keep things as anonymous as possible once everything was done. I chose to keep my name to my story because it’s MINE. I wanted to show other Two Spirit indigenous people that you WILL be okay, there’s support and love out there for you, despite the trials and grief that may come.
The book drops April 21st. Read it, with your 👀, and maybe you’ll understand me a bit more, and realize why I’m so mean. 🤣 jk Im the “Ryan” in the book. It’s me…Rye Rye. 🥰
#AmericanMen #Akwesasne #Books #nonfictionbooks #Indigenous
