Boozhoo, I’m Ashley Fairbanks.

In Ojibwe, my name is Asiniiwiikwe, which means she’s made of stone— a name given to be because I was a stubborn baby.

I'm an Anishinaabekwe from the White Earth Nation. I grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and currently live in San Antonio, Texas. I have over 15 years of experience doing digital strategy, design, art direction and messaging work. I am also an artist, organizer, and writer (my first book, This Land, was released by Penguin Random House in August 2024)

I went to college at the University of Minnesota, where I studied American Indian Studies with a focus on Anishinaabemowin, and Political Science. A museum fellowship after college changed my path, and I started my career developing and designing museum exhibitions. I learned so much from the museum world, mostly about how stories can engage people and shift their thinking.

While working in museums, I was also working for political candidates. Eventually, I was called back to the political world and then into the halls of government. I’ve done communications, design and social media on municipal, gubernatorial, senatorial, and presidential campaigns. I’ve also started an Indigenous farmer’s market, opened pop-up museums and interactive art installations, and helped create a political wing of a hip-hop label. It’s been a crazy journey.

For five years, I’ve worked as the communications and creative director for 100%, an organization working to shape a just, sustainable, and fossil free future for Minnesota. I also work with clients across the country to help them create brands and tell stories that make real impact.

I live in downtown San Antonio with my husband, 13 year old daughter, and my 13 lb. scruffy white dog, Waffles. When I am not working or writing, I love to swim, bake bread, and read everything from economic theory to silly romance novels.