August 17 Webinar to Present Opportunities for Engagement with Generation Indigenous
As part of the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers, GCRI is proud to support the work of Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) around indigenous youth and opportunities for engagement in the White House initiative, Generation Indigenous. Join us for a webinar on August 17 from 2pm-3pm to learn more about opportunities for funders to participate in Generation Indigenous.
“Native people have endured a long history of racism and colonialism which has led to multi-generational, community historical trauma. Despite the diversity in language, location, and economic distinctions, there is structural and systematic discrimination that affect all Native communities. Annual grant funding has remained below 0.5%, yet Native Americans are 1.7% (5.4 million) of the total US population. This [webinar] will highlight impact driven solutions and opportunities to partner with philanthropy,” stated Sarah Eagle Heart, CEO of Native Americans in Philanthropy.
Recent statistics show that 81% of Native men and 84% of Native women experience violence in their lifetime. Suicide is the second highest cause of death of Native youth between the ages 15 and 24 — who make up over 40% of the total Native population — and at a rate that is 2.5 times the national average. Native youth are placed in the criminal justice system at a rate up to 5 times that of whites, receive disproportionately harsh treatment, and are more likely to be killed by police than any other racial group. Additionally, Native Americans are often categorized in data and reports as “statically insignificant” or “other,” erasing their existence and unique circumstances; as a result, services and policies inherently leave Native people behind in social and economic advancement.
Gen-I seeks to improve the lives of Native youth by promoting a national dialogue, policies, and programs to mobilize and cultivate the next generation of Native leaders.