Advocates to the Front! 2024 WSCADV Conference

In this session, we will delve into the significance of incorporating culture as a primary means of prevention, especially within minoritized communities. Harnessing the wisdom passed down through our indigenous teachings, Snxestwilxtn staff will explore how cultural practices play a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing healthy relationships. Through a hands-on mindfulness activity rooted in our traditions, we will engage in meaningful dialogue about our shared responsibility in amplifying BIPOC voices and anchoring culture in prevention efforts. Discover why culture is not just an add-on, but a cornerstone of building and sustaining thriving communities.

Martin Spotted Bear (Blackfeet), Shanna Howtopat (Yakama), and Madeline Rider (Algonquin Anishinabeg) will share their experiences providing culturally specific, Intergenerational trauma informed, street outreach to Native American survivors of violence. They will share how homelessness response and prevention is intricately connected to ending gender based violence and the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR).

Mother Nation was founded in 2013 by Norine Hill, with a mission to deliver social and cultural healing services for Native women that nurture, create stability, and inspire growth through sisterhood. Today Mother Nation is a Native American 501(c)(3) nonprofit that offers culturally informed healing services, advocacy, mentorship and homeless prevention in Washington State. We support Native and Indigenous women during times of transition from chronic homelessness and gender-based violence to stable housing by providing counseling, connection to social services, sisterhood, community, and spiritual support.