EMPOWERING THE LIVES OF NATIVE AMERICANS IN THE PORTLAND AREA
WINTER 2015
NATIVE STUDENT LEADERS SHINE 1.
1. NAYA’s Early College Academy students performed culturally inspired slam poetry at the NAYA Gala. The youth collectively wrote the poem to address the experiences, issues, concerns they face as Native youth. Read more about these inspiring youth on page 6. 2. NAYA is excited to announce a new Early Childhood Education program for children six weeks to 36 months. In 2016, classes will open for enrollment into a childcare and education program. NAYA plans to integrate a culturally-specific curriculum with important educational objectives for youngsters so they will be ready for Head Start by age three. Read more about this program on page 3.
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4. U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley is an active supporter of initiatives that uplift Portland’s Native community. Recently, Senator Merkley experienced Portland’s transit system during a morning ride along with Cazmine Bonnott, Lakota. Later that day he presented a new bill to increase transit accessibility for urban communities like Portland. In November, Senator Merkley hosted the Multnomah County Town Hall at NAYA. He listened to students, Elders, and community members as they shared their concerns and ideas.
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3. NAYA’s Winter Gathering is a time for community to come together and enjoy a festive evening celebrating the winter season. A holiday meal is shared as a family and activities for kids and youth will be available. There’s a rumor that a special guest will be making an appearance!
5. NAYA youth experience culturally-specific summer camp programs that draw upon Native traditions and values. These camps and special opportunities like the White House Tribal Youth Gathering emphasize the importance of teaching culture and supporting cultural identity. See some of the summer’s highlights that NAYA youth had on page 4-5. 6. The 2015 NAYA Gala was our best yet! The evening was spectacular from the introduction video, NAYA’s ECA students’ slam poetry, and an inspiring story from Davineekaht White Elk, Ute/Blackfoot, receiving educational supports from NAYA to be a successful college student today. Thank you to our sponsors, donors, and friends for a fun and successful evening. Check out page 7 for more photos, and online on our Facebook album.
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7. NAYA’s Neerchokikoo powwow celebrates the traditional lands that NAYA sits on. Community gathers for a day filled with traditional dancing, drumming, and singing. A few highlights are captured on page 6, and online on our Facebook page.