Born in Brawley, California and raised in the Yaqui community of Guadalupe, Arizona. Enrolled Pascua Yaqui Tribe member. First Indigenous woman elected to the Arizona House (1996). Served on the Pascua Yaqui Tribal Council (1992-1998). BA in Elementary Education and MA in Multicultural Education from University of Arizona. Chairs the AZ Indigenous Peoples Caucus.
SA
Serving
About
Family & Heritage
Born in Brawley, California and raised in the Yaqui community of Guadalupe, Arizona with her ten siblings. Member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Married to longtime Pascua Yaqui tribal councilman Luis Gonzales, with five daughters and 22 grandchildren.
Political Career
Before Politics
Full-time education professional including teaching, teacher training, and administration for Tucson Unified School District, Tempe Elementary Schools, Arizona State University, and University of Arizona. Education Director of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Served on Pascua Yaqui Tribal Council from 1992 to 1996.
Education
B.A. in Elementary Education, Arizona State University; M.A. in Multicultural Education, University of Arizona
Key Issues & Priorities
Public education funding and teacher salaries
Healthcare access and diabetes treatment
Women's and employee rights
Environmental justice and clean energy
Gang prevention and juvenile justice