Native Americans today are facing serious challenges as a result of events that happened almost seven generations ago, when our culture and way of life were almost completely destroyed. When such devastating turmoil happens to an entire race of people, the effects are severe and long-lasting, and they endure for generations. Historians and psychologists call it "transgenerational trauma."
Native Americans, however, are a strong people. We are survivors, and our fortitude to maintain our culture and sense of who we are in the face of such a traumatic history is proof of our resilience. We are part of a generation refusing to settle for the status quo. We are finding our voice and taking a stand. This is just the beginning of a movement sweeping across Indian country and beyond to restore the dignity and vitality of our people and our culture.
But it can’t be done alone.
In Native American tradition, the circle is a significant symbol. It represents equality and mutual respect, where every voice is heard. It’s an unbroken connection, symbolizing closeness and protection. Strength and unity.
Black Elk of the Oglala Sioux called it "The Great Circle," saying, “So long as the hoop was unbroken, the people flourished. The flowering tree was the living center of the hoop, and the circle of the four quarters nourished it. The east gave peace and light, the south gave warmth, the west gave rain, and the north with its cold and mighty wind gave strength and endurance. Everything the Power of the World does is done in a circle.”
We at Native Hope would like to invite you to join our circle, The Circle of Hope.
The Circle of Hope is a community of people—Native and non-Native—who affirm the values of respect, honesty, compassion, generosity, prayer, humility, and wisdom. It is comprised of people who are committed to supporting Native Americans and investing in their future.
When you pledge to give any monthly amount, your investment helps fund vital programs for Native youth that provide protection for those who are at risk as well as an education for a path forward.
We invite you to join our movement.
Stand in Solidarity. Invest in Hope. Join us...in The Circle of Hope.