In a powerful convergence of culture and leadership, UNITY’s Executive Committee traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, to participate in the 81st Annual National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Convention. The convention served as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the celebration of tribal sovereignty and self-determination. This year marked the third year of partnership […]
The Missoula Native Youth Council (NYC) brought energy, education, and cultural leadership to the annual Halloween event at Russell Elementary School, reaching over 200 community members. While the event was packed with festive fun, the Council used the opportunity to spotlight a serious message as part of Red Ribbon Week: the dangers of commercial tobacco […]
Watson Whitford, UNITY Male Co-President, exemplifies dedication to cultural heritage and community engagement through his recent activities. Whitford participates in significant cultural events that not only reflect his commitment to his roots but also his leadership within the Native youth community. Engaging in Ceremony and Tradition At the beginning of July, during the National UNITY […]
Male Co-President Watson Whitford Inspires Unity and Wellness in Native Communities Watson Whitford’s role as Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee demonstrates leadership grounded in connection and wellness. As a Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader, his advocacy for cultural preservation and mental health exemplifies UNITY’s mission to develop Native youth spiritually, mentally, […]
Cultural celebration and resilience form the cornerstone of O’Shay Birdinground’s leadership as Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee. From organizing traditional games to leading powwow preparations, this Apsáalooke (Crow) leader showcases how Indigenous heritage can inspire and unite communities. Elevating Leadership Through Tradition As the Arena Director for the Crow Fair […]
Calling all Native youth and their Advocates! You are Invited! The National UNITY Council Executive Committee (NUC EC) is thrilled to announce our joint regional meetups this fall, designed to unite youth councils and Native youth from across the country. These virtual gatherings welcome UNITY-affiliated youth councils and their supporters to reconnect, collaborate on shared […]
For Watson Whitford, a Chippewa Cree and Navajo youth leader serving as the Co-President of the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is about cultivating relationships, sharing knowledge, and inspiring others to take pride in their roots. This August, Watson began his second year at Montana State University, balancing his academic ambitions with his commitment […]
Rise and Vote: Amplify Native Voices CLICK below to download two Free UNITY GOTV toolkits designed to empower Native youth in elections by increasing voter participation, representation, and advocacy strategies. The toolkit also includes links to three UNITY webinars featuring Native youth guest speakers actively engaging our community through grassroots voter education.  CLICK HERE 1 – GOTV […]
For Watson Whitford, the National UNITY Council Male Co-President and a proud member of the Chippewa Cree and Navajo Nations, leadership means more than guiding others—it’s about grounding himself in tradition, serving his community, and inspiring other young Native men to find their strength through culture. Watson’s journey this summer has been one of deep […]
For O’Shay Birdinground, an Apsáalooke youth leader and Rocky Mountain Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, leadership is more than holding a position—it’s about being a mentor, preserving culture, and fostering community pride. Through his active involvement in powwows and cultural celebrations, O’Shay demonstrates how Native traditions not only shape personal identity but […]
