Native American Connections

“Systems of power, privilege, and oppression have traditionally created barriers for persons and groups with particular identities, ages, abilities, and histories. We pledge to replace such barriers with ever-widening circles of solidarity and mutual respect.” - Unitarian Universalist Association Shared Values

In keeping with our Shared Values, Native American Connections (NAC) works to support, honor, appreciate, and work cooperatively with Indigenous peoples locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Indigenous communities face many challenges and there are many opportunities to build relationships with them. NAC has been actively involved with indigenous communities like Lummi Nation since 2005. We help organize and support educational events and cultural opportunities that inform and engage others in the issues and activities of Indian Country.

  • Locally, we support projects like Lummi Food Bank, Youth Canoe Family, Lummi Nation School and more.

  • Regionally, we support and participate in events of the Pacific Northwest Tribes/Nations like the annual Tribal Canoe Journey and salmon restoration and protection efforts.

  • Nationally, we promote acknowledgement and understanding of ongoing issues like the Repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery (General Assembly 2012), bringing Lummi Nation to General Assembly 2015 and the ongoing awareness of issues around boarding schools, destruction of sacred sites, missing indigenous people and more.

  • Internationally, we regularly reach across the border into British Columbia supporting First Nations communities and supporting Lummi House of Tears Carvers Totem Pole Journeys. We host indigenous leaders and speakers including representatives from South America.

NAC contributes to the support of Indigenous communities by:

  • Collaborating within our Unitarian Universalist family including UU Service Committee (UUSC), UU Ministry for Earth, Green Sanctuary, Indigenous Water Protectors, JUUstice Washington, and others, to support indigenous communities around the globe;

  • Engaging other non-governmental organizations and faith groups in supporting Indigenous leadership in addressing issues that are impacting them;

  • Promoting calls for action and for donations of time and financial support;

  • Serving to build bridges of understanding, respect, and compassion;

  • Attending and promoting public cultural events, sponsoring guest speakers at the pulpit; and supporting Native artists, musicians, and storytellers;

  • Educating our congregation and the larger community through workshops, films, speakers and other culturally appropriate activities;

  • Working with other UU congregations and faith groups to establish teams to support indigenous communities in their areas and

  • Taking action when we are invited to do so by the Tribes and Nations or supporting organizations.

Our nation has been complicit in profound injustices against Indigenous communities and peoples on this continent, both past and present. Many of us are not aware of our history regarding this relationship, nor are we aware of the living cultures, the contributions and the wisdom that indigenous peoples on this continent, and worldwide, possess. We must educate ourselves about these issues and work in partnership with Tribes or Indian organizations on projects to redress these injustices them in a loving and respectful manner.

For more information contact:

Beth Brownfield: bethbrownf1@gmail.com

Deb Cruz: dwcruz@comcast.net