For Ethan Hedgepeth, February was focused on strengthening connections between Native youth councils and Native student organizations. As the Southeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Ethan continues to support youth leadership both in his region and on his college campus. On February 21, Ethan attended the North Carolina Native American Youth Organization […]
For Liliana Mars, February was a reminder that leadership and personal wellness often go hand in hand. As the Northeast Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Liliana spent the month reconnecting with culture, strengthening relationships, and supporting youth councils across the region. At the start of the month, Liliana traveled to Hollywood, Florida, […]
Phoenix, Arizona — January 19, 2026 During the UNITY Midyear Conference in Phoenix, the National UNITY Council (NUC) officially adopted a powerful resolution titled “Restoring Balance: Healing Trauma & Ending Violence in Native Communities.”Approved at the National UNITY Council Business Meeting with a quorum present, the resolution establishes a unified, youth-driven framework to address some […]
Native youth leadership is strongest when it uplifts the well-being of the community. This January, Ethan Hedgepeth of Cherokee and Tuscarora heritage stepped into that role by helping guide important conversations around mental health and wellness while continuing to stay connected with Native students on campus. As a Southeast Executive Committee Member of the National […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””] The National UNITY Council (NUC) continues to move forward because of the leadership, commitment, and impact of UNITY Youth Councils across the country. As we prepare for the upcoming UNITY Midyear Conference, the NUC Executive Committee is pleased to share this 30-day notice of items that will be presented for review and action […]
Finals season can test anyone—but for Native youth navigating college life, having community makes all the difference. This December, Ethan Hedgepeth, of Cherokee and Tuscarora heritage, was reminded of the strength that comes from staying connected. As a Southeast Executive Committee Member of the National UNITY Council, Ethan continues to balance academic responsibilities with leadership […]
In November, Ethan Hedgepeth (Cherokee, Tuscarora), Executive Committee Member for the Southeast Region, stayed actively engaged on campus and in the broader community through cultural education, outreach, and advocacy. Ethan participated in several events hosted by the Native American organization at East Carolina University, including a Craft & Chat, the organization’s monthly meeting, and a […]
