Author Archives: Rafael Tapia, Jr.
The Importance of the 2020 Census for Native Americans
According to the National Congress of American Indians, many Native Americans fall within certain population groups that are considered “hard-to-count,†making them vulnerable to under-representation.
Strengthening Native American Youth in Arizona
PWNA hosted the sixth annual Native Youth Know (NYK) Forum, a special initiative for young people… more than 140 Native American youth came to the Capitol to voice their concerns, challenges and opportunities to make changes in their communities.
National Homemade Bread Day and the History of Frybread
Nov. 17 is National Homemade Bread Day, and bread is one food that knows no cultural bounds. However, this day is also a reminder of the darker history behind Indian frybread.
Labor Day and Native American Employment Disparities
Labor Day: We hope employers will consider hiring Native Americans to foster a new generation of American labor and build a brighter future for all Americans.
The History and Significance of the Pueblo Revolt of 1680
The Pueblo Revolt against the Spaniards began on Aug. 10, 1680, and by September, Spanish settlements ceased to exist in the state of New Mexico.
Tribal Sovereignty as a Pathway to Thriving Economies
As tribal nations exercise their rights to self-govern and strengthen their economies, their sovereignty is also benefiting local nontribal communities. Depending on the tribe, as high as $.90 of every tribal dollar earned is spent in non-tribal economies.
Celebrating DÃa del Niño and Promoting Child Literacy in Native Communities
This “DÃa del Niñoâ€, celebrate the magic of reading by sharing your favorite culturally relevant Native American children’s book with any young readers in your life.
Graduates Reflect on 4D Strong Native Women Program
The 4 Directions Development program of PWNA incorporates culturally-based tools. “If 4D were to establish [a] university, I would enroll,” …
Celebrating Arizona’s Birthday and the Rich Native American History of the Grand Canyon State
Poverty Awareness Month: Alleviating the Challenges Facing Native American Communities
Two of the five poorest counties in the U.S. are located on Indian reservations and the highest poverty rate by ethnic group is found among Native Americans, accounting for 27.6 percent of national poverty overall.