By Molly Ann Howell
Managing Editor
Damaris Yazzie thought she would take a longer break from pageant life.
Instead, the 22-year-old from Teec Nos Pos, Ariz., left Red Rock Park Aug. 7 wearing the crown of the 2026-2027 Miss Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Queen.
This isn’t Yazzie’s first time winning a pageant. She served as Miss Northern Navajo from 2024 to 2025.
Yazzie is Kin Łichíi’ii and born for Áshįįhí. Her maternal grandfather is Táchii’nii and her paternal grandfather is Tó’aheedlíinii.
She said her favorite part about competing in pageants is getting to meet the other contestants, and the speaking portion of the competition.
“You’re sharing what you’ve been taught, and what you’ve learned,” she said.
Yazzie is currently enrolled at the San Juan College in Farmington, where she is pursuing a degree in biology.
Education—specificially promoting higher education— is a part of her platform as Miss Ceremonial.
Through “Cultural Pride Through Lifelong Learning,” Yazzie plans to encourage people of all ages to continue learning their traditional teachings and to pursue higher education.
“I’m excited and happy to be representing my tribe as Miss Ceremonial,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what happens this year.”
Yazzie has already hit the ground running with attending events as Miss Ceremonial, including the Santa Fe Indian Market Aug. 15.
“I really enjoyed walking around talking to people along with [Little Miss Ceremonial Rhylee Manwell],” Yazzie said. “She’s so fun to talk with.”
Former Miss Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Cajaun Cleveland has been in charge of the Ceremonial Queen program for a couple years now. As the 2022-2023 Ceremonial Queen, Cleveland brings a unique background that allows her to help guide the young girls and women who win the title each year.
In an interview with the Sun, she said she was excited to work with both Yazzie and Little Miss Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Rhylee Manwell
“So far, it’s been really great,” Cleveland said. “They’re willing to put in the work that is required and needed, and I’m very excited to work with them because I know they’re really great ambassadors from their communities.”
