Scott Sink, known more commonly as Scott Keltic Knot, a Spanish teacher at Dana Hills High School since 2004, has passed away. Friends and colleagues shared remembrances of Sink, who was also a musician, martial artist, and a "tireless seeker of truth and justice."
Tributes described Sink as an activist who consistently stood up for Indigenous rights and against racism and injustice. He dedicated himself to studying history, educating himself, and showing solidarity with people of color and Indigenous communities. Friends noted his efforts to expose police brutality, challenge racist school mascots, educate people about the history behind “Thanksgiving” – which he referred to as “ThanksTaken” – and advocate for day laborers and working-class communities. He also taught self-defense, participated in educational workshops, supported environmental causes, and contributed to numerous local struggles.
His activism, according to those who knew him, was characterized by direct action and commitment. He joined community gatherings, shared meals, and became a part of the communities he supported, giving his time, energy, and heart to local causes. One friend specifically recalled protesting “Columbus Day” at Mission San Juan Capistrano alongside Sink as a lasting memory of his legacy.
Scott Sink was remembered as an intelligent individual who saw learning as a tool for understanding and translated that understanding into action. He fought for immigrant rights in Fullerton, created resistance art, and, as a friend described, viewed gardening as an act of resistance and survival, connecting it to ancient knowledge and unity. He explored culture, language, and identity, focusing on building lasting unity through connection to the land.
A childhood friend recounted their shared youth, hiking in the Yorba Linda hills, challenging school authority, and placing signs on “stolen Gabrieleno land.” They made signs against Columbus Day and Thanksgiving for display at their high school and distributed flyers about school administrators. They immersed themselves in various books, learned fluent Spanish, traveled to Mexico, and worked with the Save Puvungna Coalition to protect sacred sites. They joined the American Indian Movement, participating in actions such as the Ward Valley land occupation and fighting racist mascots across different states and counties. A road trip in their early 20s saw them visit 35 states, exploring historic and sacred places.
Scott Sink, remembered by loved ones as a friend, teacher, revolutionary, poet, and caretaker, is survived by his wife, Gema, who is also an activist. Friends expressed that his absence would be deeply felt, but the work he supported and the people he stood beside will carry his memory forward.
