UNITY is excited to announce the launch of its first annual Youth of the Year Award, recognizing one outstanding Native youth for their leadership, service, and positive impact in their community. This new award celebrates Native youth who are stepping up, giving back, and making a difference through community service. Whether you have volunteered with your […]
For Rhiannon Eaglespeaker, April was about connection—visiting with relatives, talking with youth and families, and building excitement for Native youth to experience UNITY’s national programs. While attending the Kyiyo Pow Wow in Missoula, Montana, Rhiannon used the gathering as an opportunity to share UNITY’s mission, answer questions, and encourage youth to take part in the […]
Rhiannon Eaglespeaker’s month was filled with movement, connection, and cultural pride. From speaking with youth councils across Montana and North Dakota to attending the Denver March Powwow and the Montana State University American Indian Council Powwow in Bozeman, she used each gathering as an opportunity to represent UNITY, build relationships, and remind Native youth that […]
The National UNITY Council has taken a unified stand through its resolution, “Restore the Balance: Healing Trauma & Ending Violence in Native Communities,” reflecting the voices of Native youth nationwide and outlining a path rooted in healing, cultural strength, and action. Adopted at the 2026 UNITY Midyear Conference, the resolution highlights urgent challenges facing Native youth, including […]
For Rhiannon Eaglespeaker, February was about using both cultural expression and community service to bring people together and support important causes. As a Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Rhiannon participated in events that raised awareness while continuing to give back to families in need. During the second weekend of February, […]
For Watson Whitford, February was a month centered on community, ceremony, and connecting with Indigenous youth across borders. As Male Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee and a student leader at Montana State University, Watson continued to support gatherings that strengthen relationships among Indigenous communities. Early in the month, the Montana State University […]
January marked a month of connection, transition, and cultural engagement for Rhiannon Eaglespeaker of Blackfeet and Kiowa heritage. As a Rocky Mountain Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council, Rhiannon began the year by strengthening relationships with Native youth leaders across the country and continuing community involvement in Montana. The month began with Rhiannon […]
Phoenix, Arizona — January 19, 2026 During the UNITY Midyear Conference in Phoenix, the National UNITY Council (NUC) officially adopted a powerful resolution titled “Restoring Balance: Healing Trauma & Ending Violence in Native Communities.”Approved at the National UNITY Council Business Meeting with a quorum present, the resolution establishes a unified, youth-driven framework to address some […]
Hope for the future of Indian Country was on full display this January as hundreds of Native youth gathered in Phoenix, Arizona for the 2026 UNITY Midyear Conference. Among the leaders helping guide that momentum was Watson Whitford, Chippewa Cree and Navajo leader and Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. The Midyear Conference […]
2026 National UNITY Conference | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma For nearly five decades, United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) has uplifted individuals and youth councils whose leadership strengthens Native youth, families, and communities across Indian Country. As part of the 2026 National UNITY Conference—a historic gathering marking UNITY’s 50th Anniversary —we are proud to honor exceptional […]
