In October, Mazie Countryman (Northern Arapaho, Shoshone, Navajo), Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, focused on strengthening Native visibility and advocacy at Brigham Young University–Idaho.
Mazie participated in an informational booth with the Native American Society, where students showcased their tribal identities and shared their experiences with the campus community. She was also invited to lunch with the university president to discuss ways BYU–Idaho can better support Native American students.
In addition, Mazie participated in Culture Night rehearsals, preparing for an upcoming performance celebrating Native culture and representation on campus.
Reflecting on the experience, Mazie shared, “Giving my perspective to non-Native people can show how resilient we are and the trials we face day to day.” Through advocacy, visibility, and culture, Mazie continues to model UNITY’s mission to uplift Native youth and create space for Indigenous voices to be seen and heard.