Native America Issues
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A New Dawn for Tribal Nations and Communities
Since the inaugural event in 2009, the Gatherings have followed the ancient manner of tribal gatherings, which requires the presence of elders, honors visitors, allows for crop trading, and encourages support for each other through sharing song, prayer, dance, and laughter. Five successful Gatherings have been conducted, hosted by four participating tribes. Positive outcomes include network building, documentation of Native resources, and support for each individual and tribe.
An ancient tribal process of selecting a leader took precedence over a Western democratic process of selecting one. Participants were selected by individuals that were community-driven and keepers of songs, stories, prayers, and teachings and still follow the ancient oral teachings of their ancestors.
The twenty-plus participants have displayed tremendous support for this process; they have taken what they learned back to their communities and shared the Traditional Ecologic Knowledge (TEK) they gained from the other participating tribes. The Gathering participants are the driving force behind the work and are providing guidance to ensure its completion.
Gathering participants identified four key areas of focus: water, health, sacred sites, and language and culture. Participants have created committees to focus on identifying specific projects that address the need of these four areas for the participating tribes. This has resulted in the creation of the Opportunity Fund and Youth Leadership Council.
Along with initiating the two funds, participants have continued researching and identifying regional experts, and strategizing on other ways to support projects in tribal communities and Nations in the four areas of interest. They have…
- Continued education on the sacred property and relationship with native people and water
- Supported better health by revitalizing traditional farming, foods, and exercise
- Conducted workshops that strengthen networks, resources, and tools for effective, long-term protection of sacred sites
- Supported language and culture by preserving elders’ songs, stories, and teachings that perpetuate land protection ethics
Your donations and membership dues make our work with the Navajo and Hopi Tribes possible.
