Sometimes leadership looks like standing at a podium. Other times, it looks like standing shoulder to shoulder with your community under glowing holiday lights. This December, Amaya Escalante of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe chose the second—showing that unity begins at home.
As a Western Region Executive Committee member of the National UNITY Council, Amaya spent the month deeply rooted in community gatherings that uplifted Yaqui families across Tucson, Arizona.
On December 19, she participated in the Christmas Light Parade in the community of New Pascua alongside Earth Ambassador Laylalanai Gocobachi. Hosted by the Department of Language and Culture, the parade featured over 30 floats and brought together families, elders, and youth in celebration. The event was more than festive—it was an opportunity to strengthen intergenerational relationships and celebrate Yaqui pride in a visible, joyful way.
The following day, on December 20, Amaya attended the annual Christmas Party in Old Pascua Village—the community she calls home. Hosted by local cultural participants and community members, the gathering created space for connection, laughter, and shared tradition. By being present in both Old Pascua and New Pascua, Amaya demonstrated what it means to serve not only on a national level but within her own neighborhood.
Reflecting on the importance of these gatherings, Amaya shared, “Participating in these events was important to me because they bring our Yaqui communities together.” She continued, “Being present at the Christmas Parade in my community of Old Pascua and the Light parade in the community of New Pascua reminded me how meaningful it is to create spaces where families, elders, youth, and community members can come together and celebrate.”
Her reflection speaks directly to the power of showing up. “I learned that showing up and staying connected strengthens our relationships, preserves our culture, and reinforces our sense of unity and belonging as Yaqui people.” In a season often filled with busyness, Amaya centered her time on community connection—an act of servant leadership that reflects the heart of UNITY’s mission.
The National UNITY Council (NUC) represents Native youth from over 300 affiliated youth councils nationwide. Through leadership development, cultural engagement, and collective action, the NUC empowers Native youth—including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Natives—to address issues of concern while drawing strength from their heritage and teachings. Amaya’s commitment to local cultural gatherings mirrors UNITY’s broader vision: inspiring hope and strengthening communities across Indian Country.
As a Western Region representative serving on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Amaya helps guide national conversations while ensuring the voices of Native youth remain central. Her leadership is not confined to conference rooms—it extends to community streets, parade routes, and village celebrations. Through presence, participation, and pride, Amaya continues to light the way for Native youth leadership rooted in culture and unity.