In a month filled with cultural celebration, community engagement, and national advocacy, Jalen Harvey (Navajo Nation, Pueblo of Acoma, Hopi Tribe), UNITY Executive Committee member representing the Western Region, exemplified servant leadership and resilience. From reconnecting with family and community at local events to representing Native youth voices at the national level, Jalen’s November was a testament to the power of Indigenous youth leadership.
Cultural Reconnection and Community Engagement
Jalen began the month by attending the 36th Annual Red Mountain Eagle Pow-Wow at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. This event, featuring over 450 dancers and numerous vendors, provided a space for cultural celebration and community gathering. Reflecting on the experience, Jalen shared, “I was happy to see some familiar faces, and use this time to rejuvenate myself to balance my mental wellbeing.”(O’Odham Action News)
Continuing his community involvement, Jalen participated in the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Youth Council Bingo Night. He expressed the personal significance of the event, stating, “Growing up, bingo was something I was always taught when I would go with my soh’soh to bingo nights back home on the reservation. So it’s always something fun to do, and most of all I feel like she’s always there with me whenever I play bingo with family or friends.”
Family Connection and Personal Wellbeing
Jalen took time to visit his maternal grandfather in Farmington, New Mexico, emphasizing the importance of family and personal wellbeing. He recounted, “It was a weekend filled with family, and honestly needed it so much! I was able to ride my grandpa’s new quad he bought, so I was living my life out there.”
Advocacy at the National Level
Jalen’s commitment to advocacy was highlighted by his participation in the 2024 White House Tribal Youth Forum in Washington, D.C. This forum brought together over 100 Native American youth to engage with federal officials on critical issues such as food sovereignty, climate change, mental health, and missing and murdered Indigenous persons. Jalen reflected on the experience, stating, “For me, it was a powerful reminder that our voices matter and that we have the ability to shape the future of our communities and our nations.”(The White House)
He further emphasized the significance of cultural celebration within the forum, sharing, “We shared our stories of resilience, but we also celebrated our traditions through music, dance, and art. It was a beautiful reminder of the strength and beauty of Native cultures.”
Gratitude and Forward-Looking Perspective
Concluding his reflections on the month, Jalen expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities and experiences, stating, “The month of November was truly so much fun, and I’m extremely grateful for the amazing opportunities. The work being done by Indigenous Youth from all around the nation brings me hope that NDN Country is in good hands, and our future looks bright.”
Jalen’s November activities underscore the impact of dedicated youth leadership in fostering community, preserving culture, and advocating for Indigenous voices at all levels. His journey serves as an inspiration for Native youth across the nation.