Alyssa Mosley, a proud citizen of the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation and a UNITY 25 Under 25 awardee, has been actively engaging in initiatives that celebrate Indigenous culture, promote education, and foster community connections. Her recent activities across the Northeast region exemplify her commitment to servant leadership and uplifting Native youth.
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day with Urban Indigenous Collective
In October, Alyssa volunteered as a Communications Associate for the Urban Indigenous Collective’s 5-year anniversary celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day. The event, held at CX Collective in New York City, was a vibrant gathering that honored Indigenous resilience and culture. Alyssa’s role involved capturing the essence of the celebration, highlighting the importance of community and heritage.Donorbox
Empowering Students at Quinnipiac University
Following the celebration, Alyssa was hosted by Quinnipiac University’s Indigenous Student Union to present her workshop, “Thrift and Thrive.” In this workshop, she guided students on connecting cultural identity with personal style, encouraging them to express their heritage through fashion. This initiative provided a platform for students to explore and embrace their Indigenous identities in contemporary contexts.
Showcasing Indigenous Fashion in Narragansett Territory
Alyssa’s commitment to promoting Indigenous artistry led her to Narragansett territory, where she participated in a photoshoot for designer Kendra Eaglestar. Eaglestar, an enrolled member of the Walatowa Tribe of Jemez Pueblo, creates designs that merge traditional and contemporary Native aesthetics. Alyssa’s involvement in this project helped spotlight the richness and diversity of Indigenous fashion.kendra.eaglestar
Advocating Through the Arts with Safe Harbors NYC
In November, Alyssa joined Safe Harbors NYC as their Social Media Manager, leading the promotion of “Tipi Tales from the Stoop,” a production set to premiere at the Perelman Performing Arts Center in New York City. The play, written and performed by Murielle Borst-Tarrant, delves into the experiences of a Native New Yorker, blending humor and poignant storytelling to shed light on Indigenous life in urban settings. Alyssa’s efforts in promoting this production aim to amplify Indigenous voices in the arts. HowlRound+4wirtz-programs.northwestern.edu+4NYTW+4
Engaging with National Leadership at the White House Tribal Youth Forum
Later that month, Alyssa attended the White House Tribal Youth Forum in Washington, DC. The forum brought together over 100 Native American youth to engage with Administration officials on key issues impacting their communities, including food sovereignty, climate change, mental health, and missing and murdered Indigenous persons. Alyssa’s participation underscored her dedication to advocating for policies that support Indigenous youth and communities. The White House+1aspencommunitysolutions.org+1
Honoring Heritage at The Metropolitan Museum of Art
As part of Native American Heritage Month, Alyssa attended a private viewing of the Native American exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The event featured a panel discussion with author Mona Susan Power, providing attendees with insights into Native American history and contemporary issues. Alyssa described the experience as unforgettable, emphasizing the significance of having the museum space dedicated to Indigenous narratives.
Educating the Public at Prospect Park’s Indigenous Culture Fair
To conclude the year, Alyssa participated in a cultural fair at Prospect Park, organized by the Eenda-Lunaapeewahkiing Collective and the Prospect Park Alliance. During the event, she shared Lenape social dances, including powwow dancing, with the community, educating attendees about the original people of Lenapehoking (New York City). This engagement provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate and disseminate Lenape culture and history. Gotham Togo+4Brownstoner+4Hyperallergic+4
Reflecting on a Year of Growth and Community Engagement
Alyssa’s diverse activities throughout the year highlight her unwavering commitment to celebrating her heritage, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering community connections. Her servant leadership serves as an inspiration to Native youth, demonstrating the impact of embracing one’s culture and advocating for Indigenous representation across various platforms.