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Native American Issues

Why the Native Vote Matters — for Tribal Communities, and our Country

With more than 560 federally recognized tribes, the ability of the Native American vote to influence Congressional change cannot be questioned. However, there are barriers to Native voter turnout, including the common belief among tribal communities that voting for officials outside Native American nations does not matter. President Barack Obama's Generation Indigenous (Gen-I) initiative, coupled with the work of Native youth leaders like Jason Chavez, works to change Native voter perceptions by empowering and educating tribal nations on the importance of their vote.

BY Amber Richardson

Blog Post

11.03.2015
Native American Issues

How the Indian Child Welfare Act Improves Outcomes for Native Families

Enacted nearly four decades ago, the Indian Child Welfare Act went a long way to prevent the unnecessary breakup of Native families. Now is not the time to roll back the law's protections.

BY Anita Fineday

Blog Post

09.01.2015
Native American Issues

Helping Native Youth Succeed With Culturally Responsive Education

If we want Native youth to survive and thrive, we should invest in tribal colleges and universities. They teach their students and communities to honor the past, live well in the present, and lead their people toward a better future.

BY Cheryl Crazy Bull

Blog Post

07.22.2015
Native American Issues

Why Education Is Key to Building a Future for Native Youth

To ensure no Native youth are left behind, we must invest in a range of programs: Everything from financial assistance to something as simple as helping a Native student complete a college application. By investing in Native youth, we empower them to be successful Native professionals.

BY Teddy McCullough

Blog Post

06.24.2015
Native American Issues

Michelle Obama Issues Call to Support Native American Youth

At a recent convening at the White House co-hosted by the Aspen Institute Center for Native American Youth (CNAY), first lady Michelle Obama acknowledged the issues Native youth face.

Blog Post

04.15.2015
Native American Issues

Bringing Authenticity and Change to the Native American Narrative

Throughout my life I’ve encountered many misconceptions and stereotypes about Native Americans: inaccurate and hurtful depictions in film, in textbooks, and in sports and mascots. Although I faced challenges along my journey, I never let stereotypes become my narrative. Unfortunately, these stigmas too often negatively impact Native American children and their communities. Through the Aspen Institute Center for Native American Youth (CNAY), I am working to change the narrative for the 2.1 million Native American youth living in United States.

BY Chaske Spencer, Guest Blogger

Blog Post

11.19.2014
Native American Issues

It’s Time For Race-Based Mascots to Go Away

On the opening day for the National Football League’s 2014 regular season, Native American youth across the country have one message for the NFL: it is time for Native and race-based mascots to go away. Native American youth see the offensive name “Red***” plastered on t-shirts, hats, and national stadiums — a word that was defined in the dictionary long ago as a racial slur.

Blog Post

09.04.2014
Native American Issues

Why the Washington Redskins are #NotYourMascot

On June 18, the US Patent and Trademark Office canceled the Washington Redskins’ trademark registration. This is an exciting announcement for the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY), whch has been active in advocating against this racist name.

BY Erin Bailey

Blog Post

06.20.2014
Native American Issues

Effects of Obama's Policies Felt with Even More Urgency in Indian Country

In response to last night's State of the Union address, Aspen Institute program directors are reacting to President Barack Obama's promises to tackle some ...

BY Erin Bailey

Blog Post

01.29.2014
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