The National UNITY Council Executive Committee (NUCEC) program has had an impactful year, serving as the collective voice of Native youth nationwide. Elected annually in July, the two Executive Committees serving in 2024 have upheld UNITY’s mission of fostering the spiritual, mental, physical, and social development of Native youth through a wide range of initiatives, events, and grassroots efforts. Their achievements highlight their dedication and emphasize the vital role of the National UNITY Council (NUC) in empowering young leaders to address issues affecting Indian Country.
A Year of Connection and Leadership
The NUCEC hosted 15 virtual meetings, including both monthly and special sessions, where they discussed organizational business, reviewed regional reports, and strengthened their collective vision. These meetings, chaired by the Male and Female Co-Presidents, exemplified the importance of using parliamentary procedures to ensure inclusive and efficient dialogue. “These meetings weren’t just about planning—they were about collaboration, growth, and fostering accountability across the UNITY network,” remarked a Co-President.
Empowering Healing and Resilience
In honor of National Suicide Awareness Month, the NUCEC partnered with WeRNative, the THRIVE team, and the Native Wellness Institute to host the “I Will Live” Suicide Prevention Healing Circle Webinar. This event offered a safe space for healing, dialogue, and connection, addressing one of Indigenous communities’ most critical issues. The second webinar, “Roots, Culture and Identity,” addressed the blood quantum challenges, lateral violence, cultural bullying, and strengthening identity among Native youth. UNITY 25 Under 25 honorees Alyssa Mosley, Anagali Duncan, and Kiara Tanta-Quidgeon facilitated the discussion as guest speakers. The two webinars are part of a series initiated by the NUCEC, addressing the “Top Ten Issues Facing Native Youth” adopted by the NUC during the 2024 National Conference Business Meeting. These trainings reinforced UNITY’s commitment to mental wellness and showcased the NUCEC’s ability to lead conversations that inspire hope and healing.
Strengthening Regional and National Collaboration
The NUCEC organized 15 virtual regional meetups throughout the fall and spring, bringing together Native youth councils nationwide. These meetups allowed youth to share experiences, collaborate on projects, and set actionable goals. “Every meetup showed the strength of our UNITY community,” shared a regional representative. “From rural reservations to urban centers, we came together to learn from one another and grow as leaders.”
2024 Youth Outreach Efforts and Partnership Highlights:
- American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) Convention, Spokane, Washington
- National Indian Education Association (NIEA) Convention, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- White House Tribal Youth Forum, Washington, DC
- White House Tribal Nations Summit, Washington, DC
- National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana
- UNITY Midyear Conference, Phoenix, Arizona
- Reservation Economic Summit (RES), Las Vegas, Nevada
- National UNITY Conference, Portland, Oregon
Advocating on National Stages
The White House Tribal Youth Forum, cohosted by UNITY and CNAY, provided a historic platform for over 150 Native youth leaders, including NUCEC members, to engage directly with Biden-Harris Administration officials. Topics ranged from climate resilience to mental health and career development. NUCEC members pridefully represented UNITY and their communities, contributing to meaningful discussions that will shape policies impacting Native youth. “It was inspiring to see Indigenous youth sharing their stories and advocating for their communities,” noted a UNITY Earth Ambassador who attended.
Revitalizing Culture and Language
In 2024, the NUCEC introduced a National Initiative focused on Substance Abuse Prevention and Culture and Language Revitalization, culminating in the resolution “Revitalizing Our Roots: Growing through Our Culture” at the UNITY Midyear Conference. This initiative encouraged youth councils to host cultural classes and webinars, emphasizing community service and inclusivity. “Revitalizing our languages and traditions is essential to our identity and resilience,” said an Executive Committee member. This initiative underscored the power of culture as a protective factor against challenges such as substance abuse.
The Purpose of the NUC: A Unified Voice for Change
The NUC, comprising Native youth leaders from over 300 councils, is the cornerstone of UNITY’s mission. By adopting the annual Top 10 Issues Facing Native Youth, the NUC equips its members with tools and strategies to create lasting change in their communities. The 2024 NUCEC’s achievements reflect this mission, demonstrating the strength of Indigenous leadership and the power of collective action.
From hosting webinars to facilitating national conversations, the 2024 NUCEC exemplified the spirit of servant leadership, fostering wellness, connection, and advocacy across Native youth communities. As UNITY continues to support and amplify the voices of these young leaders, the foundation for a stronger, more unified Native America grows ever stronger.