“Speaking Strength: O’Shay Birdinground Amplifies Native Voices at NCAI Conference”
“Not a lot of people get to meet this many high-level tribal officials every day,” said O’Shay Birdinground, a proud Apsaalooke (Crow) Nation and UNITY Executive Committee Member for the Rocky Mountain region. Reflecting on his recent experience at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) conference in Las Vegas, O’Shay highlighted how introducing himself in his native language among tribal leaders was a profound and unifying moment. His leadership and passion for community engagement continue to uplift Native youth and preserve cultural heritage, embodying UNITY’s mission of fostering self-reliant, unified Native communities.
A Celebration of Sovereignty and Networking
At the NCAI conference, O’Shay joined tribal leaders from across the nation to discuss policies and initiatives aimed at protecting Native nations’ sovereignty, treaty rights, and cultural heritage. The event, established in 1944 in response to federal policies threatening Native sovereignty, continues to be a vital platform for advocating for tribal communities.
“It was an amazing networking experience,” O’Shay shared. “Being able to introduce ourselves in our native languages was a powerful show of unity.”
For O’Shay, engaging with tribal officials and community leaders provided invaluable skills he plans to use in future endeavors. “Conversations with these leaders gave me insights that I can carry forward in my work as a UNITY representative and in my community.”
Promoting Cultural Preservation Through Leadership
O’Shay’s experience at the NCAI aligns seamlessly with UNITY’s mission to empower Native youth to embrace their identities, advocate for their communities, and promote cultural preservation. By using his platform to engage with tribal leaders and share his native language, O’Shay exemplifies how grassroots efforts and national advocacy can intersect to inspire change.
“This work is about more than policies,” O’Shay emphasized. “It’s about securing our traditional laws, cultures, and ways of life for future generations.”
Bridging Youth and Leadership
O’Shay’s servant leadership extends beyond conferences and meetings. Through his role with UNITY, he continues to promote mental, social, physical, and spiritual wellness in Native youth. By connecting with leaders at the NCAI conference, he has built bridges between generations and demonstrated how youth leadership can complement the work of seasoned advocates.
“It’s inspiring to see so many tribal leaders come together to protect our rights and culture,” he said. “As Native youth, we have the unique opportunity to learn from their example and carry the torch forward.”
The Shared Missions of NCAI and UNITY
The NCAI and UNITY share a commitment to protecting tribal sovereignty, enhancing the quality of life for Native peoples, and promoting a collective understanding of tribes’ rightful place within the American government. O’Shay’s involvement at the NCAI conference underscores the power of collaboration in advancing these shared goals.
His efforts remind us that preserving cultural identity and advocating for Native rights require grassroots action and high-level engagement. O’Shay’s work reflects UNITY’s emphasis on empowering youth to participate in these critical conversations.
Building a Legacy of Advocacy
O’Shay Birdinground’s journey as a UNITY representative is a testament to young leaders’ impact when given the tools, opportunities, and platforms to thrive. His participation in the NCAI conference and dedication to his community embody the spirit of UNITY: collaboration, resilience, and leadership.
As O’Shay continues to amplify Native voices, he is creating a legacy that honors his ancestors, uplifts his peers, and inspires future generations. His story reminds us that Native youth are not just tomorrow’s leaders—they are today’s changemakers.