The Native Village of Eyak Tribal Youth Council stands as a shining example of UNITY’s mission in action, connecting rural Alaska Native youth to a broader network of Indigenous peers across the country. Through events that celebrate culture, promote wellness, and foster leadership, the council embodies the transformative potential of youth councils in addressing community challenges and building strong connections.
Addressing Unique Challenges in Alaska’s Rural Communities
Alaska Native villages face distinct challenges, from geographic isolation to limited access to resources. The Native Village of Eyak Tribal Youth Council confronts these obstacles head-on by creating youth engagement and cultural preservation opportunities. “It’s important for us to maintain our traditions while finding ways to connect with other Native youth,” shared Jessica Weaver, a council leader.
UNITY provides a vital platform for this connection, linking Alaska Native youth with peers from the Lower 48 states to share ideas and solutions. This cross-cultural exchange strengthens both UNITY’s network and the communities it serves.
Cultural Preservation Through Meaningful Activities
One of the council’s standout initiatives was their drum-making and designing event for a sobriety celebration. This activity supported a community event and provided youth with a deeper connection to their culture. “Making drums reminded us of our roots and the importance of tradition in healing,” said a council member. The project exemplified UNITY’s emphasis on cultural heritage as a source of strength and resilience.
Promoting Wellness Across Generations
The council actively engages in events that promote wellness and intergenerational connection. For instance, three members attended the Elder & Youth Conference hosted by the First Alaskans Institute, where they explored the theme “Let it be that we heal each other.” Bringing this knowledge back to their community reinforced the value of shared learning and mutual support.
In their annual Easter Egg Hunt, the council encouraged physical wellness and community bonding by organizing a joyful event for over 100 participants. Activities like these highlight the council’s role in fostering holistic well-being.
A Model for Youth Empowerment
Youth councils like the Native Village of Eyak Tribal Youth Council provide a practical framework for enabling youth to address local needs while gaining invaluable skills. As outlined in the UNITY Youth Council Handbook, youth councils empower young Native Americans to organize, take responsibility, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Members develop self-confidence, leadership, and a sense of purpose—qualities evident in Eyak’s activities.
Connecting Alaska to the National UNITY Network
The council’s participation in UNITY conferences provides an essential bridge between Alaska Native youth and their nationwide counterparts. Members exchange ideas, build relationships, and bring back innovative solutions to their villages through these events. The council has expressed interest in further hosting a National UNITY Conference in Anchorage to integrate Alaska’s unique perspectives into the national dialogue.
Inspiring a Future of Resilience and Connection
The Native Village of Eyak Tribal Youth Council demonstrates how youth councils can address the specific needs of their communities while contributing to a larger movement. From cultural preservation to wellness initiatives, their work reflects the UNITY creed’s spirituality, cultural pride, and balanced living principles.
Jessica Weaver summarized the council’s impact: “We’re not just a group—we’re a connection point for our community and a bridge to other Native youth. Together, we can overcome challenges and celebrate our strengths.”
The Eyak Youth Council’s story inspires others, proving that even in the most remote corners of the nation, youth-led initiatives can create meaningful change.