Brave Heart Fellowship
Champions for Change
CA Native Youth Collective
Remembering Our Sisters
Building Communities of Hope
Creative Native
Democracy is IndigenousConnecting Native youth to pathways of civic engagement
FIVE $1,000 micro-grants available to support fire relief & rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles and Southern California.
Priority funding available to support community engagement projects in the DMV (DC, Maryland & Virginia).
About the Program
The Democracy is Indigenous (DII) campaign at the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) is dedicated to mobilizing young leaders – ages 11-24 – wishing to enhance civic engagement at the local, tribal, state and federal levels. Participants benefit from tailored training, a prominent national platform to amplify their initiatives and micro-grant funding to support the development of community action projects. By spearheading their own projects, organizers gain invaluable professional growth opportunities.
Get Involved
Southern California Fire Relief
Los Angeles, California is home to the largest urban Native American population in the United States. In response to the ongoing wildfire crisis in Los Angeles and Southern California, the Center for Native American Youth is offering five $1,000 micro-grants to Native youth who want to help rebuild their community.
To apply, tell us your idea for how to use these funds: CNAY California Fire Relief Microgrant Applications
*Please note that if your application is approved, it can take 4-6 weeks to receive funds. Please keep this in mind when describing your relief plan.
General Funding
CNAY is excited to offer a great opportunity to make a real impact in your community! Are you involved with a local organization doing good work? Do you have an idea for a community event, research or other project that will enhance the lives of community members? Apply today for micro-grant support to bring your idea to life!
To apply, tell us more about your plans for a community action project using the Democracy is Indigenous Project Proposal form. Projects will be funded on a rolling basis throughout 2025, with a priority given to those in DC, Maryland & Virginia (DMV). We also have a printable PDF flyer available for download to share in your local DMV community!
Curious about what others are doing? Check out our Project Spotlight! Have more questions? Need help with your project? Contact Katy Stewart: katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org
Partner With Us
CNAY is committed to fostering and building relationships within communities, bringing valuable training opportunities to Native youth across the United States. These tailored trainings – offered free of charge throughout the year – equip emerging young leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary for civic engagement, encouraging them to actively participate in shaping the future of their communities. All youth who participate have the opportunity to receive funding for a community action project.
REGISTER FOR A FREE TRAINING!
Virtual trainings are held periodically – please register using the link(s) below. 2025 dates forthcoming.
If you have any questions or would like to arrange a custom civic engagement training – outside of the dates above – for the youth in your network, please contact Katy Stewart: katy.stewart@aspeninstitute.org
Learn More
Civic Engagement
Civic engagement refers to the active participation of individuals in the social, cultural and political affairs of their community, city, state and/or tribal nation. It involves citizens taking an active role in shaping public policies, making informed decisions and contributing to the betterment of society. Civic engagement is a fundamental aspect of democracy, as it empowers individuals to have a voice, express their concerns and work collectively towards positive social change and the common good. Civic engagement can include, but is not limited to:
- Voting in elections
- Participating in community organizations
- Advocating for social justice issues
- Volunteering, attending public meetings
- Engaging in peaceful protests
Indigenizing Democracy
Indigenous democracy refers to the principles, practices and systems of governance rooted in the traditions, values and cultural frameworks of Indigenous peoples. It encompasses the unique ways in which Indigenous communities exercise self-determination, make decisions and maintain their own forms of governance. Often, this is characterized by collective decision-making, consensus-building and a strong emphasis on community participation and inclusivity.
We Indigenize democracy by recognizing the inherent rights, knowledge and sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples. Indigenizing democracy is a vital aspect of self-determination for Indigenous communities working to uphold traditional governance systems and maintain their distinct identities.
Narrative Change
DII provides a platform for youth to share their work in their own voice, furthering the narrative and discourse surrounding Native American youth, civic action and Indigenous Democracy. We encourage Organizers to approach and reframe conversations from a Native perspective and provide unique opportunities to highlight their efforts through local and national media outlets.
Project Spotlight
Additional information and complete projects from former Organizers can be found under each bio below.
- Jenna is hosting a mural competition, celebrating 100 Years of Citizenship. Voter registration information and opportunities will be made available at the winner unveiling event.
- Royal and Romeo passed out goodie bags containing information about the election to thousands of attendees at the Comanche Nation Fair.
- Ian started When Natives Vote, an online awareness campaign (image credit) inclusive of two community events with panels on the importance of civic engagement.
Meet the Organizers
