A New Mexico student is celebrating Native American Heritage Month by following in her ancestors’ footsteps in the US

Jessica “Jaylyn” Atsye, 21, a Laguna Pueblo member, designated last Friday as Rock Your Mocs Day — honoring the unique footwear of many American indigenous peoples by wearing moccasins.

“They show who you are,” Atsye said.

Moccasins historically were the footwear of many Native American tribes. The shoes’ decorative elements including beads, quillwork and painted designs used on moccasins varied among tribes.

“It’s like you’re wearing these pieces of art, They’re all unique.” said Jessica Metcalfe, a Turtle Mountain Chippewa from North Dakota.