“Hello my name is Kelia Yanito. I’m from the Navajo Nation. My clan is Nihóbáanii (Grey Streaked Ends) and Tł’ááshchí’í (The Red Bottom People). I currently work for Nambe Pueblo Healthy Family Services as their Legal and Victim Advocate. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Fort Lewis College and I received my advanced certificate in Tribal Court Legal Advocacy through the extension program at the University of Wisconsin Madison-Law called National Tribal Trial College. I’m currently enrolled at Santa Fe Community College and attending the Paralegal Studies.
As a Legal/Victim Advocate I play a crucial role in ensuring justice and support those affected by domestic violence and other crime. I get the opportunity to represent tribal members in tribal court with common civil legal matters and advocate on the behalf of the clients. As the Legal/Victim Advocate, I get to help victims and survivors in holding their perpetrators accountable legally and to advocate for the victim’s safety and privacy throughout the legal process. I have assisted individuals in order of protections, retraining orders, child custody and alternative dispute resolutions. As the Legal/Victim Advocate I’m able to create positive relationships with other advocates from other Pueblos, Navajo Nation, Tribal Court staff and other agencies to best support the victims and survivors that need assistance.
I love being a Legal and Victim Advocate because I get to Advocate for Justice when our people need us!”