White Texans — my ancestors — weren’t on the defensive. We were on theoffensive Despite his negative experience in Anaheim, Smith has built quite a name for himself in Hollywood. His breakout role was in Baz Luhrmann’s Bronx-based Netflix musical dramaThe Get Down.He then starred in the wildly successfulDetective Pikachuand landed a supporting role in theJurassic World “You’re gonna go out and search for groups that accept you where you can do the work that you want to do, but you might not necessarily find that immediately. I’ve had to fight just as hard in some progressive spaces as I fight in centrist or Republican spaces just to get taken seriously. If you’re trans in politics, you have to do twice the work for the issues you want to fight for, and then you also have to fight to have your own voice heard. Make sure you’re ready to fight all of those fights and also take care of yourself at the same time. You’re not going to be able to do the work if you’re not taking care of your body and your material needs like your housing and your health care. Go to the doctor for that pain that’s been hurting you for months; go buy a bed if you need a new bed. Take care of your material needs first so that you can be there for the people who are counting on you to do the work.”TV As a leader, it is my job to highlight my fellow youth and put them in the spotlight, because when one of us succeeds, we all succeed. Being Indigenous in a place like Chicago can be tough. The assault of racist mascots and attempts to erase Native culture are constant and daunting. However, I’m fortunate to be surrounded by a supportive family, a strong Native community, and incredible young leaders who stand up for what’s right and take care of one another.Get the Teen Vogue Take.Sign up for theTeen Vogueweekly email.Related: