This Year, Resolve to Be More #NativeAware

Last year reminded us to take a step back, express gratitude for what we have and show empathy for those whose struggles are greater than ours. COVID-19 brought to light many difficult truths about the disparities within America’s diverse communities, including for our Native American population. Now, many more people are paying attention to these struggles for the first time and want to know what they can do to help.

As we embark on 2021 together, we want to encourage you to add one resolution to your list: Be more #NativeAware.

Did you know Native Americans historically have been undercounted in the census? Or that there are multiple voting barriers for Native Americans that largely stem from living in remote, rural areas? Last year, Native communities came together to ensure their voices were heard so that they might have a chance to address the most critical issues facing their communities. For example:  

• 23% of Native families experience low food security, meaning they have inconsistent access to enough food to lead a healthy, active life.
• Native Americans endure a legacy of healthcare disparities, fueling high rates of diabetes, cancer, tuberculosis and infant mortality.
• Only 13% of Native students hold a college degree, roughly half the rate of Caucasian Americans.
• Up to 61% of Native children live in poverty or low-income households, and 29% of employed Native Americans live below poverty level.
• Suicide rates for Native Americans between the ages of 15-24 are three times the national average — and the second leading cause of death for their age group.
• 90,000 Native Americans are homeless, and 40% live in unsafe or substandard housing.

The fight against COVID-19 is not yet over and we want to continue to support our reservation partners while helping to bring attention to the issues that matter most so that others can help end the cycle of poverty in Indian Country.

So, how can you be more #NativeAware in 2021?

• Check out our YouTube channel to learn more about how PWNA helps Native communities.
• Read up on food insecurity, animal welfare, and the education barriers unique to Native American students.
• Purchase a Native Aware t-shirt to support PWNA’s ongoing work with the tribes.
• Tune into our “Realities Video Series with Wes Studi” and share what you learn. Be sure to include #NativeAware in your post.
• Link your Amazon Smile account to Partnership With Native Americans so that a portion of every item you purchase on Amazon helps support our mission.
• Visit our Native Aware site to learn more about the realities Native Americans are struggling with and how you can help. And share the page!
• Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and use #NativeAware and the URL www.nativeaware.org to help spread the word!