In honor of Native American Heritage Month, the National Association of Social Workers’ Native American Council (NASW-NAC) would like to recognize all Tribal Nations in the U.S., First Nations in Canada, and those from the North to the South. Currently, there are 567 federally recognized Tribal Nations in the U.S.; however, this does not disregard the unfederally recognized Tribal Nations that continue to strive. Indian Country is vast and beautiful, and we see generations of our people carrying on our traditions, heritage, culture, and language. We are still here! Native American people today conduct themselves honorably, connected to the earth, recognizing that we all originated from this very land. While we honor and remember our past, we look forward with hope, resilience, beauty, and strength. We safeguard our youth, the future leaders of this great nation. We honor our rights as Native people to this land, as previous to the 1978 Indian Religious Freedom Act, we were persecuted, imprisoned, or murdered for practicing our Indian ways. Per the NASW Code of Ethics 1.05, Cultural Competence is vital in serving and demonstrating understanding of culture and its function in human behavior and society, recognizing the strengths that exist in all cultures.
Though many of our nations face significant disparities stemming from historical trauma and modern-day colonization—reflected in the disturbing rates at which our women and girls go missing or are murdered—we unite as one. We are growing, educating ourselves, and drawing upon our oldest methods of healing, such as ceremonies, language, and heritage, to confront and overcome these formidable challenges. As we honor and embrace our rich culture, it is vital to acknowledge the beauty that lies within our people. We carry forward our ancient languages and traditions through the grace of dance and the power of ceremony, embodying humility, care, and compassion. We remain deeply connected to our Mother Earth, which nourishes us. If you are a guest on this land and wish to honor Native American Heritage Month, I encourage you to reach out to an Indigenous person. Take the time to ask about their origins, about their people, and see if you can connect with an elder who can share invaluable insights through storytelling and advocacy. Learning about the original caretakers of the land you live on is a meaningful step toward becoming a steadfast ally.
The NASW NAC honors the past, present, and future of all Indigenous Nations. During Native American Heritage Month, we will provide educational resources through podcasts, videos, and books addressing important topics such as the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls epidemic, the Boarding Era/CA Mission system, and resources to help individuals learn about the land they occupy. We will also include information on Native American veterans’ resources, Indigenous modalities for healing substance use disorders, suicide prevention, and evidence-based practices for Indigenous communities. Additionally, we will provide local listings for connection opportunities, Talking Circles, and educational resources in Northern and Southern California for those interested in collaborating to serve Indigenous Peoples. We deeply appreciate the NASW for its unwavering commitment to advocacy, education, and grassroots movements carrying on Indigenous empowerment throughout California, as we continue the critical work of healing for all Indigenous Nations. Aise-tsaant—thank you! Ose!
This website offers a diverse array of resources, including engaging podcasts, thought-provoking videos, insightful books, and comprehensive lists of organizations situated throughout Southern and Northern California. These carefully curated resources aim to enhance your understanding and support of Indigenous Nations within your region, fostering an environment of education and meaningful contribution. We consider it a profound privilege to share this valuable knowledge, which encourages deep engagement and respectful allyship with these vibrant communities. Thank you for your commitment to nurturing awareness and building strong, supportive relationships.
Original Indigenous Caretakers of the land
Indigenous Non-profit Organizations Health Centers
Indigenous Education Programs, Colleges & University Programs
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls (MMIWG)
Suicide Prevention Resources
Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) prevention resources
Indigenous Scholarships
Talking Circles
Podcasts
Books/Videos
Fashion/Jewelry/Art/Music
If you would like to share your Tribal Organization, dance circles, talking circles, or any other community-based information with this Indigenous tool kit, feel free to email the NASW NAC at naswca.nacouncil@gmail.com.
With honor and respect, for Native American Heritage Month
The NASW Native American Council
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