Darius Sparks, a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, serves as a mentor to Native youth. Photo from Running Strong for American Indian Youth

Three young tribal members who are making a difference in their communities will speak at the Center for Native American Youth in Washington, D.C., today.

Darius Sparks, 21, a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe; SuSun Fisher, 16, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians; and Keith Martinez, 21, a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, accepted the Generation Indigenous challenge. They will discuss the unique challenges facing Native youth and some of their successes.

“The aim of this event is simple – elevate amazing people who are changing lives. The Native American youth who will join us today have initiated projects, started campaigns, and completed countless other activities to address challenges they see their peers and communities facing,” CNAY executive director Erin Bailey said. “This is the focus of CNAY and our work on Gen-I: create platforms for youth to tell their story and raise awareness to Native youth priorities so as to compel more resources and create more equitable opportunity.”

The event, which takes place at the Aspen Institute, will be co-moderated by journalist Patty Talahongva, a member of the Hopi Tribe and retired Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-North Dakota), who founded CNAY.

Assistant Secretary Kevin Washburn, a member of the Chickasaw Nation who serves as head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, will deliver closing remarks.

The event will be webcast at www.aspeninstitute.org/events/live starting at 12pm Eastern.

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