Presenters

Co-Presenters hide

Presenter(s): Tim Ruise and Norma Contreras

Organization(s): Strong Hearted Native Women’s Coalition, Inc.

Objectives:

  • Understand how Tribal culture serves as a protective factor.
  • Explore the connection between cultural identity and healthy relationships.
  • Identify culturally grounded prevention strategies
  • Discuss ways communities can strengthen safety and healing.

Description: This interactive session explores how Tribal culture, traditions, and community values serve as powerful protective factors in preventing violence and promoting wellness. Participants will examine the relationship between cultural identity, belonging, and healthy relationships while learning how traditional teachings, community connections, and Indigenous knowledge support resilience across generations. Through discussion and practical examples, attendees will identify culturally grounded prevention strategies that strengthen safety, healing, and collective responsibility. The session encourages participants to recognize the role of culture as a foundation for restoring balance, fostering healthy families, and creating safer Tribal communities for future generations.