Native Star Foundation

The Native Star Foundation co-sponsored alcohol and drug prevention speakers for the Tule River Tribe‘s Get Drugs Off Our Rez event & Boys with Braids Regional Conference in March 2025, which aims to combat bullying, addiction, suicide and stereotyping through traditional teachings about the significance of hair in Native culture. By fostering understanding and respect, this effort helps promote healing and resilience in the community.

The event was well received, with more than 300 Native youth in attendance. Many youth from across California’s Central Valley participated by getting on stage to demonstrate pride in their long hair.

This was a regenerative turning point for the Central Valley and the Tule River Indian Community – the excitement of the event set the tone for rest of the year in regard to being healthy or healthier!