We believe that cultural engagement is civic engagement. A strong sense of cultural identity naturally leads to a desire to participate in civic life. Native peoples are often underrepresented in Census figures and in political determinations. Making our strengths known and voices heard as a community is an important part of the work we do at NAYA.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit, NAYA does not engage in partisan political activity. However, our non-partisan engagement is a significant part of our Community Development work. Resulting from the need to engage in partisan political activities, the NAYA Action Fund was born. The work of the Action Fund is to build and enhance political activities in Oregon and Washington. For more information on the NAYA Action Fund, please contact William Miller.

NAYA participates in Get Out the Vote efforts to encourage voter turnout in the Native American and Alaskan Native community. Our community engagement team holds voter registration sessions and provides educational forums about what voters can expect on their ballot, how to fill out a ballot, and where to vote each election cycle. GOTNV is regularly discussed at the Portland Youth and Elders Council along with legislative updates, upcoming elections and other opportunities to gather input on policy decisions. Additionally, NAYA serves as an unofficial drop site for voters in our community and will pick up/drop off ballots at the elections office. Please contact our Advocacy Team for more information on voting and turning your ballots in.

TAKE ACTION

• You can register to vote and learn about upcoming elections at the Secretary of State’s Website.  
• We’d like to know what issues are important to you, email us at Advocacy@nayapdx.org.