Session Description:

Offered in partnership with Native Governance Center, this course is designed primarily for non-native people who want to engage respectfully with Native nations but aren’t sure where to start—or how to find the right words. This interactive 90-minute session combines a short Native Nations 101 primer with a deep dive into How to Talk about Native Nations.

We’ll begin by grounding participants in the basics: what is Tribal sovereignty, how Tribal governments work, and the vision Native nations are carrying forward for the next seven generations. Then, we’ll shift into practical tools for talking about Native nations, including terminology do’s and don’ts, what to avoid, and how language reflects respect for sovereignty and identity. Throughout, we’ll share real-world examples, diverse perspectives from Indian Country, and our own stories as Native facilitators.

Participants will have the chance to engage through live polling, Q&A, and discussion. Whether you’re new to these conversations or looking to deepen your knowledge, this session will help you grow your baseline understanding and leave with more confidence in how you talk about and build relationships with Native nations.

Speakers:

Cree Rose Dueker (Chippewa Cree Tribe) is passionate about data, storytelling, and engagement as tools to support and sustain sovereignty. She previously worked in higher education with a focus on recruitment and outreach with Native students. At Native Governance Center, Cree is part of the Community Engagement team, where she blends her love of education and outreach to create meaningful resources and programming. With experience working alongside Native nations and urban Native communities, she brings a deep commitment to uplifting Indigenous voices and fostering understanding between Native and non-Native partners.

Sage Phillips (Penobscot Nation) was raised in Wabanaki Territory with the understanding that education and knowledge are powerful tools that guide her community forward. As such, she has dedicated the majority of her time to learning about and advocating for equitable solutions for access to higher education for future generations. Based on her experiences as a Native student, Sage is determined to provide the next generation of Indigenous students with opportunities for practicing culture and achieving success. She is a strong believer that Indigenous sovereignty begins with education for our communities and their allies and brings this perspective to her role with the Community Engagement Program.

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