April 2023Vol. 24, No. 3Culture Is Prevention: We Are All Connected

Culture Is Prevention: We Are All Connected, published by the Tribal Information Exchange, is a guide to help tribal communities understand how culture can be a protective factor that promotes healthy behaviors, strengthens family and community relationships, and creates a safe environment. The guide suggests that these factors help prevent negative outcomes for American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth.

The document highlights how featured tribal organizations use traditional tribal practices and incorporate cultural values to create a more holistic approach to prevention and healing and prevent and address harmful behaviors. The guide emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that considers the historical trauma and ongoing challenges faced by AI/AN communities and recognizes the strengths and resilience of their cultural traditions.

The paper also highlights the importance of cultural context when developing prevention and treatment programs and provides practical strategies for how tribal communities might implement culture-based prevention efforts. It also provides examples of successful prevention programs and strategies that have integrated cultural components and emphasizes the importance of community engagement and partnerships with other organizations.

Finally, the guide emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication between tribal communities and outside organizations. Overall, Culture Is Prevention: We Are All Connected stresses the value of cultural preservation and promotion as a critical component of promoting the safety and well-being of AI/AN youth.