Recognizing Tribal Culture and Traditions
Region 2
The political sovereignty of California tribes is based on the historical recognition of its distinct communities by the US Constitution. Over the centuries, American Indian and Alaska Native peoples have overcome normalized oppressive policies and practices, even sanctioned extermination campaigns, through the strength gained from their cultural core values and interrelated sense of solidarity.
Today, tribes continue to develop and maintain resilience as they address their communities’ challenges and expectations. (CIMC census report)
An equity lens allows for consideration of historical context and recognizes the strong cultural traditions and practices of tribal communities
when supporting outreach efforts. California Indian Manpower Consortium, Inc. (CIMC) plays a leadership role with the State to reach tribal nations, especially the 109 federally recognized tribes in California.
CIMC Vaccine Clinic Team
CIMC has served in a critical role for the State’s priority campaigns, such as Vaccinate ALL 58 in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and extreme heat. CIMC has also played a critical role in the past five decennial censuses to ensure that an accurate census remains a priority among tribal members while respecting their sovereign rights.
CIMC’s outreach approach considers cultural traditions, tribal diversity, and tribal leadership structures. CIMC understands the challenges of historical trauma and geographic distances in rural areas. For Native communities, a meeting is an intimate space to take the time to be accountable to others and honor them by meeting face-to-face.
Effective Outreach Approaches
CIMC enhanced their outreach approaches throughout the years as a trusted messenger between the State and Native People by:
- Disseminating information through an extensive Native network, their seven field offices, programs for elders, and partnerships with tribal governments
- Addressing the mistrust of government and misinformation, such as vaccines and the Census, by highlighting the benefits and recognizing the reasons for hesitation.
- Meeting people where they gather, such as at pow-wows, tribal meetings, health clinics, and festivals, to share relevant information.
- Creating relevant messages and materials. Surveys and conversations helped gauge current sentiments. Coloring books on Native traditions and values not only educated Native Peoples but also the public.
To develop effective outreach tactics, organizations must begin by listening to communities. Across California, tribal communities
have differing backgrounds, obstacles, and resources. Acknowledging and understanding these varying circumstances helps to navigate
relationships more effectively and cultivate mutual respect.
By actively understanding each tribe’s individual experience, we continue to facilitate collaborative efforts to respect each tribe’s sovereignty and contribute to our collective well-being, leading us to improve our outreach efforts.
Nature's Nurture Coloring Book
CALIFORNIA’S TRIBAL TALES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONNECTION
by: TC’ACHE HOAGLIN | Tribe: Yuki, Wailacki, Pomo.
CIMC used coloring books to educate Native communities focusing on their cultural traditions. They also became a way to share a new perspective with other Californians.