NCFY Recommends: Connecting Native American Youth to Their Heritage

November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, a time for celebrating the ancestry and traditions of Native cultures. Here are some resources that help young adults embrace their heritage and connect with peers throughout the year:

• United National Indian Tribal Youth, known as UNITY, encourages young adults to engage in their communities by forming youth councils. Each council develops its own programs promoting community service, cultural heritage and healthy lifestyles but must submit a constitution and application to be recognized as part of the UNITY network.

• Health resource website We R Native, which is designed for and by Native American youth, features an “Ask Auntie” column that allows youth to submit their questions anonymously.

• Young adults looking to explore their creative sides can reach out to NVision to collaborate on cultural and multimedia programs highlighting the Native American experience. NVision views these artistic collaborations as a way to develop youth leadership skills and strengthen Native American identities while raising public awareness about concerns affecting native communities.

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