Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council Applicant Meeting

Welcome and Context

  • The Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council (YAC) was officially launched this year.
  • The YAC was established a few years ago to give youth a voice in decision-making, policy, and projects affecting their communities.
  • Historically, the council has experienced fluctuating activity and has been inactive for almost six years.

Importance of Reviving YAC

  • There is a new emphasis on prioritizing youth engagement and leadership.
  • The speaker shares personal motivation as a parent of a sixth grader interested in politics, highlighting the importance of youth involvement.

Proposed Changes to the Structure of the YAC

  • The council proposed to place the YAC directly under the Navajo Nation Council for streamlined communication.
  • This connection aims to address the issues the youth face and ensure their voices are heard.
  • Participation in the YAC can be valuable for building resumes and leadership skills.

Application Process and Participation

  • An announcement was made that 41 applications were received from across the Navajo Nation.
  • This indicates a strong interest from youth in participating in government and policy-making.
  • The YAC position is described as a public servant role, empowering youth to contribute creatively to their communities.

Selection Process Explanation

  • The competition for selection into the YAC is rigorous.
  • The selection committee is using a rubric system to evaluate applications based on:
    • Short essays (total 25 points).
    • Letters of interest (total 30 points).
    • Personal mission and vision videos (total 45 points).
  • The goal of the scoring breakdown is to maintain objectivity and ensure all voices are valued.
  • The top twelve applicants will be selected for the council.

Confirmation Process

  • Once selected, youth members will go through a confirmation process similar to that of division directors in the Navajo Nation, with their appointments subject to council vote.
  • Applicants will have the opportunity to present themselves in person or virtually during the confirmation process.

Networking and Opportunities

  • The speaker encourages networking among applicants to help foster connections and support each other.
  • There will be ongoing opportunities, even for those not selected, to remain involved with government and future openings.

Engaging with Legislation

  • The process includes a potential opportunity to draft and propose resolutions based on community needs or issues.
  • YAC members will work with council delegates and present their resolutions to the council, having a voice in legislative proceedings.

Executive Structure of YAC

  • The YAC will have a defined structure similar to legislative processes, including roles like chair and vice-chair to lead meetings and discussions.
  • Members have the responsibility to guide the council according to the needs and opinions of youth across various regions.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

  • YAC will serve as a forum for creating recommendations to the Navajo Nation's government about issues affecting youth.
  • There is a strong emphasis on rural representation to ensure all voices from less populated areas of the Navajo Nation are heard.
  • YAC is expected to promote advocacy on various issues, including mental health and educational resources.

Conclusion and Encouragement

  • The speaker highlighted the importance of patience and perseverance, encouraging members to stay positive whether selected or not and to continue pursuing opportunities.
  • Reinforcement of the values of self-advocacy, resilience, and community service was emphasized throughout the discussion.

Implementation Questions

  • Questions from participants regarding how suggestions made by the YAC will be incorporated into government decisions.
  • Clarification that YAC will operate within the legislative framework and work to draft resolutions, voice opinions at council meetings, and involve in community engagement initiatives.

Future Initiatives and Additional Clarifications

  • Community outreach initiatives, potential collaborations with schools and nonprofits, and legislative resolutions can be driven by YAC members.
  • Guidelines for conducting resolutions and making official proposals were discussed, stressing the importance of structured communication with council delegates.

Closing Remarks

  • The instance concluded with an open invitation for further questions from participants, showcasing a continued commitment to active engagement and transparent leadership within the youth community.