Since colonial and American expansion, Tribal and Indigenous communities across Turtle Island, the United States, have survived on the bare minimum or nothing at all. State and federal governments have failed to provide the necessary resources promised to Native Americans; as a result, “Native Americans continue to rank near the bottom of all Americans in health, education, and employment outcomes.” (Broken Promises, p. 6) For centuries, Indigenous people faced discrimination, neglect, greed, and violence while their land, languages, religion, and resources were seized and robbed. Yet, Tribal, and Indigenous communities and people prove to be resilient and continue to contribute to a country that took so much and has not given back as promised.
Understanding why one of many populations, such as Tribal and Indigenous communities and their people, rank so low and are in high socioeconomic need should raise high alert for community outreach. Community outreach is the simple act of meeting communities where they are and connecting them to the resources and support they need to overcome barriers. One of the most critical aspects of community outreach in Tribal and Indigenous communities is building trust and relationships with its people. Becoming mindful and knowledgeable about Tribal etiquette and culture can open the doors for giving to many communities nationwide. Once rapport is built, you can collaborate and empower the Tribal and Indigenous communities in outreach efforts, from evaluating and planning to giving them a voice and a choice in decision-making. Together, these efforts and contributions will celebrate shared achievements and success.
Broken promises: (n.d.). https://www.usccr.gov/files/pubs/2018/12-20-Broken-Promises.pdf
UNM-Center for Native American Health
Dose of Reality-about Opioids
https://www.doseofreality.com/our-campaign-resources/native-american-campaign/
Native American Professional Parent Resources, Inc.
New Mexico Legal Aid-Native American Programs