As young Native Americans took the leap from the cliff next to Pumpkin Springs into the cold waters of the Colorado River, Amber Benally knew the trip had been special.
It was the summer of 2022 and the last full day on the river as part of the Grand Canyon Trust’s Rising Leaders Program. Throughout the journey, the 14 Native Americans had navigated through more than just the white water.
Benally said they, as a group, had developed a bond and been able not only to learn about the Canyon, but also embody emotional vulnerability and courageousness...