Today, we honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of all Indigenous Peoples; and we are called to reflect on the vast inequities that they experience in America. Indigenous communities have endured centuries of forced removal from their lands and cultural erasure. The long-term impact of policies such as forced assimilation through boarding schools, broken treaties, and land dispossession has led to cycles of poverty, substance abuse, mental health challenges, and marginalization, all of which are linked to higher rates of incarceration.
Aligning with exalt’s work, we see daunting similarities: Native Peoples are incarcerated at DOUBLE the national average and more than QUADRUPLE the rate of their white peers.
Let’s honor the wisdom, strength, and resilience that Indigenous Peoples have carried for generations. At exalt, we believe that every young person, regardless of background, has the right to determine their future, free from systemic injustice. By addressing these inequities head-on, we are not only reshaping individual lives but also dismantling the harmful structures that have long perpetuated the over-incarceration of underrepresented communities.
As we reflect on Indigenous Peoples' Day, let us commit to amplifying their voices, learning from their lived experiences, and working toward a future where justice and opportunity are equally accessible to all. Together, we will empower the next generation to embrace their own potential and write a new narrative—one defined by education, self-determination, and hope.
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