Unity Conference

 

 

UNITY, 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, stands for United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc.

Impressing the 1100 attendees from approximately 24 states and Canada on the first day were dancers from Jemez Pueblo. The Cherokee National Choir sang the national anthem in Cherokee. During the conference the youth engaged in activities designed to promote personal development, citizenship, effective youth councils and communication. In conjunction with UNITY’s celebrate Native Health project, which is designed to help prevent childhood obesity, the alliance for a Healthier Generation facilitated a number of activities, which promote active living and healthy eating.

“I went to one of the best universities in the country but my best teachers were those back home who didn’t speak a word of english,” said Regis Pecos, chief of staff for New Mexico’s speaker of the House of Representatives Ben lujan. Pecos, cochiti Pueblo former Governor of his tribe, is a graduate of Princeton University and a UNITY alumni. “What will your grandchildren say about you? Will they say you made sure our language and culture were a part of their lives? Will they say you wanted to make sure it survived?”

Alvin Warren, cabinet secretary for Indian affairs to New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson spoke to the theme developed by the youth “Diverse We Are, United We Stand, Together We Rise.” He encouraged the youth to be prepared for leadership roles within their respective tribes saying every contribution they make counts. Warren, Santa Clara Pueblo, served two terms as lt. Governor for his tribe.

After learning that New Mexico has the only cabinet level position for Indian affairs, many youth wondered why their state doesn’t have such a position. No doubt a few will take steps to ensure a similar position in their own states. challenging the youth to get ready for globalization was laDonna Harris, Comanche and the founder of Americans for Indian Opportunity. The California University of Pennsylvania recently recognized Harris with an Honorary Doctorate for her 50 years of activism and advocacy for American Indians and other underrepresented populations. Harris has devoted her life to building coalitions that create change.

 

For the full article...

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!