Empowering Our Future: A Vision for the Colville Business Council Position 1
Empower our Youth
Pictured on the right is Meghan’s Great-Grandfather Art Circle, son of Yat-ah-mo-set (Charley Wilpocken), who was raised on the Snake River and was forced to the Colville Indian Reservation. Charley Wilpocken’s father was Showaway (II) and he was the son of Communsni and T’siyiyak (Palus). Communsi was the daugher of Chief Wiyawiikt, “Caught While Going Along” of the Weowicht Family. https://rdscheuerman.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/columbia-plateau-family-lineages.pdf https://digitalcollections.lib.washington.edu/digital/collection/loc/id/1524/rec/198
In the heart of our vibrant community lies the spirit of unity and resilience, a spirit that has been passed down through generations. As we stand at the cusp of a new era, the challenges we face are many, but not insurmountable. I am stepping forward to serve in the Colville Business Council Position 1, guided by a vision shaped by the voices of our youth, the wisdom of our elders, and the pressing needs of our time. This vision is deeply rooted in the principles laid out by United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY), and it encompasses the following critical areas:
Substance Abuse: Our community faces a daunting challenge with substance abuse, which affects not just the individuals struggling with addiction but their families and our community as a whole. My commitment is to champion comprehensive support systems that include prevention, treatment, and recovery programs, ensuring that those in need have access to the help they require.
Culture and Language Preservation: The essence of who we are lies in our culture and language. These are not merely aspects of our heritage to be remembered; they are living, breathing elements of our identity that must be actively preserved and promoted. I will work to ensure that programs and resources are available to all community members who wish to learn and pass on our traditions.
Mental Health: Mental health is as crucial as physical health, yet it often goes unaddressed. I will advocate for increased mental health services, including counseling and support groups, to ensure that our community members have the support they need to thrive. Particularly for our youth and address partnerships with our local school districts.
Domestic Violence: A safe community is a strong community. Tackling the issue of domestic violence requires not only legal measures but also education and support services to help victims and rehabilitate perpetrators. My role will include supporting initiatives that provide these necessary resources.
Education: The future of our community lies in the education of our youth and young people. I will support educational programs that not only provide a strong academic foundation but also incorporate our cultural heritage, preparing our young people to succeed in the modern world while staying connected to their roots.
Tribal Leadership Support: Effective leadership is the backbone of a thriving community. I will work to ensure our leaders support our young leadership and have the resources, training, and support they need to make informed decisions that benefit all community members.
Climate Change: Our connection to the land is sacred, and protecting our environment is imperative. I will advocate for sustainable practices and policies that address the impacts of climate change, ensuring that we can safeguard our natural resources for generations to come.
Suicide Prevention: The tragedy of suicide affects far too many of our families. I am committed to supporting suicide prevention programs that provide education, outreach, and support to individuals in crisis, with the goal of saving lives and healing our community.
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives: This crisis has brought untold pain to our communities. I will work tirelessly to support efforts that address this issue directly, from improving law enforcement response to providing support for affected families.
Youth Involvement/Empowerment: The voice of our youth is powerful and must be heard. I will ensure that young people are actively involved in decision-making processes and have opportunities for leadership and development. Their energy, creativity, and perspective are vital to our community's growth and success.
As I step forward to take on this role, I am guided by a commitment to rise to the occasion, to support our young people, our elders, and every member of our community. I am driven by the belief that together, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a future that honors the teachings of our ancestors and the dreams of our children. This is not just my vision; it is our shared journey. Let us walk it together, with unity, resilience, and hope.
Central to my campaign and the work ahead is our guiding mantra: Educate, Inspire, & Transform. This slogan is more than just words; it encapsulates the essence of our collective journey. As a young person stepping into this role, I bring with me not just the energy, passion, and creativity that our times demand but also a profound commitment to learning, guiding, and evolving our community for the better. My leadership is rooted in emotional intelligence and humility, recognizing that true strength comes from listening, understanding, and empathizing with the diverse voices within our community.
With a background in public relations, I've honed the critical skill of connecting communities that have traditionally operated in silos. My vision extends beyond the immediate horizon, aiming to forge robust alliances with other tribes and organizations that share our commitment to empowering young people. These connections are vital, not only for the exchange of ideas and successes but also for building a supportive network that uplifts our youth, encouraging them to dream bigger and reach further.
Educate, Inspire, & Transform is not just a call to action; it's a promise. A promise to educate our community about the issues that matter, to inspire action and involvement at all levels, and to transform our challenges into opportunities for growth and unity. In embracing these principles, we set forth on a path that honors the legacy of those who came before us and lays a strong foundation for the generations that will follow. Together, let's embark on this transformative journey, with raised hands and our shared energy, passion, and vision for a brighter future.
