As a child, former Ganado resident Trisha Hope made a promise to her mother, Irene Sulak Psencik. In 2024, she was able to fulfill that promise.
“As a young girl, I’d sit with my mom watching the Republican National Convention, cherishing those rare moments when it was just the two of us,” Hope said. “With six kids in our home, her full attention was a precious gift. I was captivated by the vibrant hats and patriotic energy on the screen, and I promised her that one day, I’d be a delegate.”
After her mother passed, Hope remembered her promise and in 2016, she applied to be a Delegate.
“I applied to be a delegate but wasn’t chosen,” she explained. “I tried again in 2024 and was thrilled to be selected as the first from my district. I took the cowboy hat they gave us and personalized it, weaving in symbols of my advocacy for J6ers, a cause that means so much to me.”
At the Republican National Convention, Hope was asked for a donation.
“Stepping onto the convention floor, hat and earrings proudly worn, I felt my mom’s presence,” she explained. “Then, (someone from the) Smithsonian staff approached, asking if I’d donate them to their collection—a humbling honor.
“On May 20, I’ll travel to Washington, D.C., to deliver the hat and earrings, joined by one of the J6ers depicted on the hat.
Together, we’ll hand over these pieces, a quiet tribute to my mom and the dreams we shared long ago.”
