NAYA’s Statement about the Results of the National Election

Dear Community,

As we process the results of the 2024 presidential election, I know many of us are feeling uncertain and even afraid of what the future holds.

Our people have faced incredible challenges time and again, including attempts to erase our existence and culture. Yet, we resist, persevere, and continue to preserve our traditions and ways of knowing.

This moment calls us to embrace hope and community even as we acknowledge the challenges ahead. It has been through moments like this that we have found our greatest strength, unity, and clarity. From resilience in the face of injustice to the building of movements for change, our journey and vision is self-determination. We must lean into the wisdom, courage, and hope passed down to us by our ancestors.

NAYA Family Center remains committed to our mission of enhancing the diverse strengths of our youth and families in partnership with the community through cultural identity and education. We will keep shaping a future rooted in justice, cultural pride and resilience. While political landscapes may shift, our commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights, well-being, and self-determination remains steadfast.

The path to systemic change is long and filled with setbacks. But we move forward with confidence, hope, and an unbreakable resolve, knowing that our collective strength will guide us through.
We are resilient, strong, and together, we will continue to make a future worthy of our ancestors’ vision.

In strength and solidarity,

Oscar Arana, Chichimeca 
Chief Executive Officer