When Native youth show up fully as themselves—culture first, community always—powerful things happen. This January, Amaya Escalante of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe embodied that spirit of servant leadership at the 2026 UNITY Mid-Year Conference in Phoenix, creating space for cultural exchange, deeper regional connection, and youth-led growth. As a Western Region Executive Committee member, Amaya […]
2026 National UNITY Conference | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma For nearly five decades, United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY) has uplifted individuals and youth councils whose leadership strengthens Native youth, families, and communities across Indian Country. As part of the 2026 National UNITY Conference—a historic gathering marking UNITY’s 50th Anniversary —we are proud to honor exceptional […]
The conference was held January 17-19 at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel Phoenix, Ariz. – More than 600 Native youth from tribal communities throughout the United States gathered for the UNITY Midyear Conference over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. Addressing the most important issues they face today, attendees celebrated Dr. King’s legacy by building real-world […]
January marked an important time of transition and growth for Vydell Willie of the Navajo Nation, a UNITY Earth Ambassador in the Western Region. As the new year began, Vydell stepped into a new academic semester at Northern Arizona University while continuing to stay active in leadership and personal development. At the beginning of the […]
UNITY is proud to recognize Hector Tigertail Alicea as an Honorary UNITY Earth Ambassador for the 2025–2026 Cohort, honoring his exceptional leadership, cultural grounding, and commitment to environmental stewardship. A citizen of the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida, Hector made a lasting impact on the UNITY Earth Ambassadors during the UNITY Southeast Regional Gathering held in […]
Leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about showing up, stepping forward, and putting in the work. This November, Gabriel Loonsfoot of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians did exactly that. From cultural presentations to national advocacy spaces, Gabriel demonstrated what it means to lead with intention and represent Native youth on every stage. Serving […]
The federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe marks a historic and long-awaited milestone, one that carries the voices, sacrifices, and resilience of generations. For Native youth across North Carolina, especially those involved in the North Carolina Native American Youth Organization (NCNAYO), this moment is more than a political achievement; it is deeply personal, profoundly emotional, […]
When Native youth lead with generosity and cultural pride, entire communities feel it. This December, Weston Bird of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation demonstrated what servant leadership looks like in action—through service projects, cultural education, and powerful community gatherings in White Shield, North Dakota. As the Great Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY […]
Sometimes leadership looks like standing at a podium. Other times, it looks like standing shoulder to shoulder with your community under glowing holiday lights. This December, Amaya Escalante of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe chose the second—showing that unity begins at home. As a Western Region Executive Committee member of the National UNITY Council, Amaya spent […]
In a season often filled with rush and noise, Tia Butler chose intention. This December, the Northwest Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council slowed down in the best way—by planting seeds of knowledge, culture, and care throughout her community. Representing the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Tia dedicated the month to educational outreach […]
