For many AIs/ANs there is a huge concern about loss of cultural roots, violence, drug and alcohol abuse, depression, and suicide within their communities. Many believe the disconnection with cultural values and traditions is the key factor contributing to the fragmentation experienced in their communities. They believe the disconnection with their culture and heritage contributes to the high rates of alcohol and drug use, family violence, and school dropout rates. Many feel the lack of a sense of community built on cultural traditions, values, and pride are at the core of the behavioral health difficulties experienced by both youth and adults. UC Davis

Inductive Reasoning vs. Deductive Reasoning Inductive reasoning (as opposed to deductive reasoning) is reasoning in which the premises seek to supply strong evidence for (not absolute proof of) the truth of the conclusion. While the conclusion of a deductive argument is supposed to be certain, the truth of an inductive argument is supposed to be probable, based upon the evidence given.

 Extended family & kinship ties  Long-term natural support systems  Shared sense of collective community responsibility  Physical resources (e.g., food, medicines, land, etc.)  Indigenous generational knowledge/wisdom  Historical perspective & strong connection to the past  Survival skills (resiliency) in the face of multiple challenges  Retention/reclamation of traditional/cultural ways  Ability to “walk in two worlds”  Community pride (“Native Pride”)

Cultural humility denotes recognition by service providers of the common disconnect between patients and providers and of the need to drive their care toward cultural safety. Cultural safety, in which the services provided are based in the culture of the individuals seeking the services, is the ultimate goal for the health care system. Ideally, such care is delivered in the patient’s language, in the patient’s community, and in ways that respect the patient’s traditional practices. Institute of Medicine of the National Academies

AI/AN Perspective: Eurocentric paradigms focus on individual pathology. An “indigenist” perspective of health incorporates the devastating impact of historical trauma and ongoing oppression of [AIs/ANs]. The model emphasizes cultural strengths, such as the family and community, spirituality and traditional healing practices, and group identity attitudes. Public Health Report

"When a community does something together, that community is very happy, jovial, connected, and unified.“ --Larry P. Aitken, CHIPPEWA The Indian People have always been able to adapt. If the hunting changed, we found new hunting grounds. If the earth changed, we moved to a better place. If the river changed course, we followed the river. But with every change, we kept our Indianness and spirituality. Our culture and spirituality have always been our strength. Our culture and spirituality taught us to live in harmony. We must change with the times, but we must maintain our culture and spirituality, always living in harmony. Great Spirit, You have taught us to survive… Let me always maintain my Indianness and spirituality. White Bison

“Traditional AI/AN cultures are congruent with social work strengths and empowerment perspectives." Brave Heart & Chase (Lakota Social Workers)