On April 16, 2026, communities across the country are invited to greet the dawn in a moment of reflection, unity, and hope as United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc. (UNITY) celebrates its 50th birthday.
To begin this milestone day, UNITY will host a Sunrise Prayer at 6:00 a.m., welcoming Native youth, elders, families, and community members to gather around the UNITY fire. This special moment offers time for prayer, gratitude, and reflection as we honor the past and look ahead to the next 50 years.
The morning prayer will be led by Ken Duncan, from the San Carlos Apache Tribe to help set the tone for a day grounded in purpose, lifting prayers for Native youth, tribal communities, and the future we are building together.
For five decades, UNITY has worked to “Inspire Hope. Change Lives.” by supporting Native youth councils and advancing leadership development across the United States. The Sunrise Prayer honors this legacy while setting a powerful intention for the future.
“In many parts of Indian Country, hope can feel distant when communities face hardship,” UNITY leaders shared. “But hope is powerful. It is the spark that helps young people believe in their future, strengthen their communities, and become the leaders our nation needs. Beginning our next 50 years in prayer reminds us that transformation starts with hope.”
UNITY invites everyone—Native and non-Native alike—to take part in this meaningful moment. Those who are able are encouraged to attend the sunrise gathering in person. Native youth councils across the country are also invited to host their own sunrise prayer circles within their communities. Whether gathering at a school flagpole, in a community space, or at home with family, prayer can happen anywhere.
These local gatherings provide an opportunity for youth leaders and community members to stand together in prayer for:
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The well-being and strength of Native youth
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The healing and resilience of tribal communities
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The continuation of culture, identity, and leadership
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Guidance and responsibility for the next seven generations
As the UNITY fire is lit at sunrise, it will mark both a celebration of the past 50 years and a shared commitment to the future—rooted in hope, unity, and collective strength.
Event Details
Event: UNITY 50th Birthday Sunrise Prayer
Date: April 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 a.m.
Location:
UNITY Headquarters
953 E Juanita Ave
Mesa, AZ 85204
Program:
Sunrise prayer led by Ken Duncan of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, featuring the UNITY fire.
Community members are encouraged to bring their families, youth councils, and friends to begin the day together in prayer and hope for the generations to come.