Meet Tracie Yellowman Tso

A Rural Utah Story

Bitahnii Nishli’, Tlaashchi’i Bashishchiin, Taachiinii DaShiCheii, Haashtlishnii Dashinali. I am a Diné woman from Diwoozhi Bikoh. Utah (near the old Hatch Trading Post) is located in San Juan County. I am running for Utah House District 69 because rural and working communities deserve leadership that understands what it takes to survive, provide, and plan for the future.

I come from the same lived experiences as many families across rural Utah, long drives, hard work, and doing what it takes to support our families and communities.

Hard Work & Blue-Collar Experience

I am a pipe welder by trade with over 23 years of experience, and I know firsthand what it means to work long hours, commute long distances, and spend time away from my own family because opportunities are limited in small rural communities.

I have lived the blue-collar life and understand the realities workers face when trying to build stability, support their families, and create a future in the places they call home.

Land, Water & Way of Life

Raised with strong horsemanship traditions and deeply connected to reservation life, I understand the challenges many rural and tribal families experience every day.

As a traditional Diné woman, caring for the land, respecting water, and understanding our relationship to the environment are deeply important to me. I know what it takes to haul water, rely on natural resources for heat, and live with the direct impact of decisions involving land, water, and infrastructure.

These lived experiences shape my commitment to protecting our natural resources, strengthening water access, preserving culture, and supporting the communities that depend on them for future generations.

Education & Public Health

Education has played an important role in my journey. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Health, Kinesiology, and Health Education & Promotion from the University of Utah, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health.

My work in research and program development has focused on practical, evidence-based solutions that respond to real community needs and strengthen the health and well-being of families and communities.

Youth, Families & Future Generations

As a foster care alum, my experiences helped shape my matrilineal perspective on leadership, one grounded in care, responsibility, resilience, and protecting the next generation. These experiences reinforced the importance of family, culture, community, and the creation of strong support systems for those facing challenges. Through my work as a Sexual Assault Tribal Outreach Specialist with Restoring Ancestral Winds, I have been committed to advocating for the safety, healing, and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

That perspective continues to guide my commitment to youth, families, education, and creating opportunities for future leaders. I was honored to serve as the first Native American student commencement speaker at the University of Utah, a milestone that reflected not only my journey but also the potential within our communities. I believe every young person deserves opportunities, encouragement, and support to pursue their goals, discover their strengths, and contribute to the future of their communities. This belief continues to guide my work alongside community-based and nonprofit organizations supporting Native communities through advocacy, prevention, education, and wellness initiatives.

Leadership Built on Listening

I believe in hands-on, boots-on-the-ground leadership built on teamwork, listening, collaboration, and problem-solving.

Having lived both on the reservation and in urban spaces, I understand the different realities many Utah families face. Every rural community has unique strengths, needs, and priorities, and all deserve attention, respect, and representation.

I believe our voices matter. Strong communities are built when people stay engaged, informed, and involved in the decisions that shape their future. Voting, participation, and civic engagement are essential to ensuring rural communities are heard and represented.

I am committed to working alongside our communities to strengthen rural Utah, protect what matters most, and create opportunities for future generations. At the heart of my work is listening, collaboration, and finding thoughtful solutions that reflect the values, priorities, and unique needs of the people we serve.

Thank You, Ahxé’héé

Tracie Yellowman Tso