| Summary: | First Nations Day First Nations Day, held in October each year, recognizes North Dakota’s indigenous peoples and their unique role in shaping the history and culture of the state, as well as the history and culture of the nation. It also recognizes the role American Indian people continue to play in shaping the future of the state and nation by making important and distinctive contributions to culture and society, as well as the critical role American Indian people, tribal governments, colleges, and businesses play in strengthening their communities and growing North Dakota’s economy. The 2016 First Nations Day celebration, “Preserving Our Culture,” was held on October 7 in the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum auditorium. The event included a flag presentation from the United Tribes Technical College Honor Guard and the Wise Spirit Singers. In addition, opening remarks were made by Scott Davis, executive director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission, and a keynote address was presented by Dakota Goodhouse, a writer, editor, and artist, as well as instructor at United Tribes Technical College. The First Nations Day celebration also included the governor’s and the city of Bismarck’s Proclamation on First Nations Day. A traditional meal was provided by United Tribes Technical College. Indian Youth Leadership Academy The North Dakota Indian Youth Leadership Academy (NDIYLA), held each year in June, creates and fosters an environment for Native youth to learn and develop leadership skills, which will open doors for them in their local communities, the state of North Dakota, and throughout the United States. The academy is a peer-to-peer mentorship program that utilizes current college students and/or former youth leadership academy attendees to help participants learn about pursuing a career or expanding on their educational aspirations. These participants are challenged by motivational speakers and mentors, visit college campuses, learn about military opportunities, and have multiple opportunities to talk about the challenges they face. Native American Youth Leadership Summit The North Dakota Native American Youth Leadership Summit, held during the United Tribes Technical College Tribal Leaders Summit in September, offers youth leaders from throughout the state the opportunity to talk about issues they see in their communities. The event includes group discussions and an opportunity to present the issues to tribal leaders. More than 75 youth leaders from each of the North Dakota tribal nations were in attendance at the 2016 Leadership Summit, as well as a group of youth leaders living off-reservation. Chapter Seven - Tribal-State Relationships 421
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