Bloom Communications

https://lnkd.in/gDgNMtpg President Biden’s decision to issue a formal apology for the devastating legacy of federal boarding schools is a powerful moment. These schools left lasting scars on many Native families, including my own. An apology can’t change what happened, but acknowledging the truth matters. What really counts now is following up with real action that helps survivors and supports Native communities going forward.

Carrying Their Strength with Me Every Day Fear didn’t stand a chance against the love and strength of these five women: Aunt Angela, Aunt Edith, Grandma Rita, my Mom Annie, and Aunt Josie. They were the role models closest to me growing up, and their influence has shaped who I am today. Through them, I learned what courage looks like in everyday moments—moving forward, even when fear is present. 🌸 In my latest article, I reflect on how we can embrace courage in our own careers using the ‘Courage to Bloom’ framework. Their example reminds me that every step forward counts. https://bit.ly/3YzfUpM #NativeWomenRISE #CourageToBloom #ResilienceInAction

Fear can stop us in our tracks, but it can also signal that opportunities for growth are near. In my latest blog post, I share how I've navigated fear throughout my career and developed the Courage to Bloom Framework to help push through it. Read all about it here: https://bit.ly/3YzfUpM I’d love to know—what fear are you working to overcome? Let me know in the comments!

SkoVOTEden! Voting in Alaska opens up this week. #GetOuttheNativeVote https://lnkd.in/gvAnZT7i

Happy Indigenous Peoples’ Day! Yesterday, I shared an open letter (see below) calling on Alaskan employers to go beyond recognition and take meaningful steps toward equity for Alaska Native employees. Let’s continue this important conversation.

This open letter urges Alaskan employers to recognize and elevate the contributions of Alaska Native employees beyond Indigenous Peoples' Day. #IndigenousPeoplesDay #AlaskaNativeVoices #DiversityandInclusion #WorkplaceEquity #CulturalInclusion #BloomCommunications

Friday Inspiration Roundup Each week, I share the words of Native women to highlight the wisdom, strength, and resilience within our communities. These quotes are not just words; they are powerful reminders of our shared values and the importance of tradition, respect, and community. I hope they inspire you as much as they do me. Swipe through and let these voices uplift and guide your day. 1️⃣ Velma Wallis: “Within each individual on this large and complicated world there lives an astounding potential for greatness.” The potential within us is limitless, waiting to be discovered. 2️⃣ Linda Hogan (Chickasaw): “Walking, I am listening to a deeper way. Suddenly all those who came before me are behind me. Be still, they say. Watch and listen. You are the result of the love of thousands.” Let’s honor the strength of our ancestors and the love that brought us here. 3️⃣ Katie John: “We need to teach our children our traditional ways so they know who they are and where they come from.” Ensuring the next generation knows their roots is key to keeping traditions alive. 4️⃣ Nancy James: “I am not a chief by myself. I have seven other council members that work just as hard and give direction for me to be a good chief.” True leadership is about collaboration and valuing the strength of the community. 5️⃣ Dr. Poldine Carlo: “The land is our life; it provides for us, and we must respect it.” Our connection to the land is sacred and must be honored with care. 6️⃣ Pauline Peter: “Respect for everyone and everything is the foundation of our way of life.” Respect shapes and sustains the way we live and interact with the world. 7️⃣ Daisy Demientieff: “Our people taught us to be strong. They had ancient wisdom and passed that on to us, and we should pass it on to our kids.” Carrying forward the strength and wisdom of our ancestors is our responsibility. Which quote speaks to you today? Let’s reflect together in the comments below. #IndigenousWisdom #FridayInspiration #AlaskaNativeVoices #CommunityStrength #CulturalRespect #UpliftingVoices #IndigenousLeadership #TraditionAndRespect #EmpowermentThroughCulture #NativeWomen

Monday, October 14, 2024, is Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Recognized in Alaska since 2017, it honors the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It’s a time to learn, reflect, and take action. This video has simple ways employers can show support and engage meaningfully with Native communities. Let’s make this day count together. Follow Bloom Communications for more tips and insights!

Building an Inclusive Workplace for Native Employees: Insights from a Native Professional In my recent article, "Embracing Resilience: Navigating the Workplace as a Native Person," I explored the unique challenges and strengths Native employees bring to the professional world. Today, I'd like to share key insights for employers on creating inclusive environments: ✅ Flexible Scheduling: Offer adaptable work arrangements to accommodate cultural practices and family obligations. ✅ Cultural Awareness Training: Invest in education to help all employees understand and respect Native values and traditions. ✅ Open Dialogue: Create safe channels for communication about cultural needs without fear of judgment. ✅ Policy Review: Regularly examine and adapt HR policies to ensure they're inclusive of diverse cultural needs. ✅ Support Networks: Encourage the formation of Employee Resource Groups for Native employees. ✅ Career Advancement: Actively support the professional growth of Native employees, addressing unique challenges they may face. Implementing these strategies not only supports Native employees but strengthens entire organizations through increased diversity of thought and experience. For a deeper dive into these topics, visit: https://bit.ly/4eSCLSu. How have you seen these or other strategies make a difference in your workplace? #InclusiveWorkplace #NativeEmployees #DiversityAndInclusion #WorkplaceCulture

Friday Reflection 💡 "Strong communities are born out of individuals being their best selves." – Leanne Betasamosake Simpson Leanne Betasamosake Simpson is a renowned Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg scholar, writer, and artist whose work focuses on Indigenous resurgence and the power of community. In this week’s blog, I share insights on how career success is not just about individual skills, but also the strength of the communities we build. Whether through mentorship, collaboration, or emotional support, community is a critical element in our professional growth. Learn more about harnessing this power and join the waitlist for Native Women RISE. Read the blog here: https://bit.ly/3XTCtUC #Leadership #CommunityBuilding #NativeWomenRise #Mentorship #BloomCommunications