December wasn’t quiet for Rhiannon Eaglespeaker—it was powerful, emotional, and deeply rooted in culture. As a Rocky Mountain Executive Committee member of the National UNITY Council, Rhiannon spent the month immersed in ceremony, mentorship, and intertribal connection across the Northern Cheyenne Reservation and into Alberta, Canada.
The month began with service to youth. Rhiannon was invited to help middle school students with social dancing after previously supporting elementary students across the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. By teaching dance and encouraging participation, she helped strengthen cultural pride among younger Native youth—making sure traditions are not only remembered but actively practiced.
Throughout December, she attended sweats every other week, marking her first time participating in a Cheyenne sweat. Coming from a Blackfeet background, the experience allowed her to respectfully learn the differences between tribal practices while deepening her spiritual growth. She shared that the experience helped her release burdens and build new relationships. Cultural humility and openness like this strengthen unity among Indigenous nations.
Rhiannon also wrapped up a beading class she had been leading since October with dorm students before winter break. Teaching beadwork wasn’t just about art—it was about patience, mentorship, and laughter. She reflected on how naturally talented the students were and how meaningful it felt to guide them. The class became one of her most memorable leadership experiences, blending cultural education with genuine connection.
A significant highlight of the month was her partner being selected to lead major ceremonial responsibilities—roles known as scout, bustle, warbonnet, chief, and pot dance, in that sacred order. The honor carries a four-year commitment, including the responsibility of creating four warbonnets and four bustles. Witnessing and supporting such an important ceremony deeply moved her and strengthened her appreciation for cultural continuity and responsibility.
The celebrations continued at the Christmas Powwow, where Rhiannon competed in the hat and boot special and placed third. More importantly, dancing provided healing, joy, and new friendships during the busy winter season.
Her travels also took her to Stand Off, Alberta, Canada, where she engaged with council members about UNITY and represented Native youth during a Christmas dinner gathering. These intertribal conversations expand UNITY’s reach and build relationships across borders. She even discovered extended family connections—reminding us how interconnected Indigenous communities truly are.
Reflecting on the month, Rhiannon shared, “This month was the most prettiest and beautiful month for ceremonies, it helped me grow of knowledge of a different tribe other then my own, I couldn’t ask for anything better.” Her words highlight growth, gratitude, and cultural respect.
Rhiannon’s December activities reflect the mission of the National UNITY Council—to draw upon Native heritage and teachings while developing leadership skills in Native youth. Through cultural education, service projects, spiritual wellness, and intertribal relationship-building, she embodies UNITY’s vision to inspire hope and strengthen Native communities, including Native Hawaiian and Alaskan Natives across the UNITY network.
As a Rocky Mountain Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Rhiannon serves as a voice for Native youth in her region while collaborating with fellow representatives and Co-Presidents to guide national priorities. Whether teaching beadwork, stepping into ceremony, or representing UNITY across borders, she continues to lead in a way that honors culture, uplifts youth, and strengthens Indigenous unity.