By Gerilynn Yazzie (Navajo Nation), United Tribes Technical College
For me, including Native peoples in America’s 250th anniversary is not about celebrating the past — it’s about telling the truth, honoring our ancestors, and ensuring our children grow up knowing that their history is essential to the story of this country.
Impactful ways to include and elevate Native voices:
- Centering Indigenous perspectives in the national story
Highlight the contributions, resilience, and leadership of Native nations — not just in the past, but today. Our stories should be told by Native people, in our own words. - Honoring the land and the original caretakers
Every celebration, every event, and every educational resource should acknowledge the Indigenous nations whose homelands make up the United States. This is not symbolic — it’s a reminder of our ongoing presence and sovereignty. - Teaching accurate Native history in schools
As a future elementary educator, this is especially important to me. Children deserve to learn the truth: the beauty of our cultures, the impact of colonization, and the strength of Native communities today. This is a chance to correct the gaps and stereotypes that still exist in classrooms. - Including Native leaders, artists, educators, and youth in planning and events
Native people should be part of the decision making, not just invited to perform or observe. Our communities have wisdom, creativity, and insight that can help shape a more inclusive vision of America. - Recognizing Native sovereignty and the government-to-government relationships
We need to acknowledge that Native nations are not just cultural groups — we are sovereign governments with our own laws, traditions, and responsibilities.
Reclaiming democracy as Native people begins with strengthening our sovereignty and honoring the systems of governance our ancestors practiced long before the United States was founded. For the Navajo Nation, this means returning to values like K’é, consensus, and community responsibility. These principles shaped our traditional leadership and decision making. It means ensuring Native voices are included in conversations about policy, education, and land stewardship. When we protect our languages, teach accurate history, and support Native youth in becoming leaders, we reinforce a form of democracy that is rooted in identity, culture, and long-term thinking.
As Americans, reclaiming democracy requires creating a society where every community is heard and respected, including the first peoples of this land. This involves telling the truth about our shared history, building stronger relationships between Native and non-Native communities, and encouraging civic participation that reflects our cultural values.
By showing up in local and national decision-making spaces, advocating for our rights, and teaching future generations the importance of their voice, we help shape a more inclusive and honest democracy. Reclaiming democracy is ultimately about healing, representation, and ensuring that the future reflects all of us.
Attending United Tribes Technical College (UTTC) has strengthened my commitment to reclaiming democracy through education, cultural pride, and community leadership. Being surrounded by other Native students who share similar goals reminds me that our voices matter and that we are shaping a future where our histories and values are respected.
As I continue my journey in elementary education, I hope to empower the next generation to understand their identity, their rights, and their role in building a more inclusive and truthful democracy.
