President Biden proclaimed November as National Native American Heritage Month, an annual observance celebrating the contributions of Tribal peoples. OJJDP joins the President in honoring the culture and heritage of Native Americans and supporting Tribal nations.
"This month, we celebrate Native American history and culture. We are reminded that with hard work and a commitment to our founding ideals, we can address the wrongs of our past and become a more perfect Union—one that ensures liberty, justice, dignity, and equality for all."
— President Joseph Biden
OJJDP continues to support programs and services for Tribal youth, awarding nearly $12 million under the Tribal Youth Program and $6 million under the Juvenile Healing to Wellness Courts—two purpose areas of the Department of Justice's Fiscal Year 2023 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation.
In September and October 2023, OJJDP held virtual Tribal consultations and listening sessions with Tribal leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to gather input on how it can support Tribes to prevent and reduce delinquency and improve juvenile justice systems.
In addition, OJJDP's Healing Indigenous Lives Initiative encourages Native youth's participation in issues related to juvenile justice, delinquency prevention, and public safety.
RESOURCES:
- Learn more at OJJDP's Youth Healing to Wellness Court Program webpage.
- Visit OJJDP's 2023 Tribal Consultation webpage.
- View and download the Healing Indigenous Lives: Native Youth Town Halls report.
- Follow OJJDP on X formerly known as Twitter and Facebook.