What does it mean to truly represent your culture in a way that is innate, intimate and unique? Eric Hernandez is a Native American hoop dancer whose love for expressing his culture comes through movement and by telling his story, shedding a light on the diversity within the Native American and Indigenous communities. In this episode Eric reveals his choice to follow life’s whispers and nudges and how the teachings of his ancestors and elders played a part in shaping his present gift to the world. We hear about the process of creating his TEDx Talk and how a role with Cirque du Soleil invited him to dance the way that he was meant to dance. Perhaps most of all we are left with the revelation to be who we truly are - even and especially when faced with decisions at the crossroads of life.
About Eric: Eric Hernandez, a proud member of the Lumbee tribe, is an esteemed Native American hoop dancer with over 20 years of experience. Mentored by Terry Goedel, Eric's skills took center stage as the lead in Cirque du Soleil's "Totem," touring over 17 countries. A recent TEDx speaker, his mission is to challenge stereotypes and spread ancestral wisdom about Native Americans through the art of hoop dance.
Facebook: @nativeric
Instagram/ericmicha3l.com