Showcasing Gabriel Jurado: A UNITY 25 Under 25 Awardee Leading Ecological Initiatives
Gabriel Jurado, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, has been recognized as a UNITY 25 Under 25 national awardee for his outstanding leadership and commitment to ecological sustainability and cultural preservation. Gabriel’s journey as a leader in his community is marked by his passion for restoring the environment and uplifting youth, all while staying grounded in his Native heritage.
Ecological Research and Community-Based Solutions
One of Gabriel’s most significant leadership initiatives is his work to address environmental concerns, particularly the impact of using non-traditional tools to harvest first foods such as Camas. Gabriel is passionate about preserving the environment through traditional practices, a core element of his ecological research. He identified a critical issue facing his community: the destruction of the environment when store-bought tools are used to harvest indigenous plants.
Gabriel proposed a project to address this problem by creating traditional digging sticks, a tool designed to have minimal environmental impact. In his own words, Gabriel explains, “I believe that this project combines two of the concerns I have mentioned previously that are facing my community: reconnecting youth and preserving the environment. By being able to connect with other tribal teens, we are recreating this sense of community that has been lost over the past two years. At the same time, we are restoring a lost art and hoping to have a more positive environmental impact.”
Gabriel’s solution to these ecological challenges reflects his broader vision of sustainability, rooted in traditional knowledge. By using these traditional tools, his project aims to both preserve the environment and reconnect Native youth with their cultural heritage, reinforcing the importance of cultural and ecological preservation.
LEADING WITH INTEGRITY AND KINDNESS
Gabriel has been a leader in his community from a young age, participating in the Tribal Youth Council even before he was old enough to formally join. His nominator, Katy Holland, describes him as someone who leads with “kindness, integrity, and sincerity,” qualities that have enabled him to inspire other youth to come together in positive ways. She notes that Gabriel “stands out because he is a true leader, who acts with integrity and in doing so establishes trust in others.”
Gabriel’s leadership is evident in his dedication to his culture and community. He has represented the Siletz Tribe at significant events, including the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C., and in Bolivia, where he shared his tribe’s songs, language, and dances. “Gabriel’s Native culture is who he is,” Holland explains. His dedication to preserving and sharing his tribe’s cultural practices with others, both locally and internationally, is a testament to his deep connection with his heritage.
Looking Ahead: Gabriel’s Vision for the Future
Gabriel’s leadership extends beyond his current accomplishments. He is committed to pursuing higher education and plans to major in Marine Biology at Oregon State University, with double minors in Environmental Science and Native American Studies. His goal is to contribute back to his community by combining his academic passions with his dedication to preserving his tribal heritage.
In 10 years, Gabriel envisions himself working on new opportunities for Native communities, focusing on environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. His nominator shares this confidence in his future, stating, “I see Gabriel working towards building new opportunities for our Native people through his work and passion.”
Gabriel Jurado’s recognition as a UNITY 25 Under 25 awardee highlights his remarkable leadership, his dedication to his community, and his commitment to ecological and cultural preservation. He serves as a role model for Native youth and a beacon of hope for the future of his community and the environment. As Gabriel continues his journey, his leadership will undoubtedly create lasting positive change.