Celebrating & Supporting Elders

One of the most long standing traditions of the holiday season is spending time with loved ones. For the most fortunate, this is an opportunity to take a break from our busy schedules and gather around fireplaces and kitchen tables to spend time with family and friends. We play games and tell stories. And a central figure in these moments is often a cherished elder.

As many travel back to their childhood hometowns to see extended family and old friends, it’s a perfect moment to celebrate the crucial role our elders play. 

In his new book, The Warrior Within, Air Force veteran and Ottawa tribal member D.J. Vanas explains, “[o]ur tribal warriors never retired, but they did change roles as they matured. Ultimately our best warriors evolved into our tribes’ best elders, sharing the lifetime of experience, lessons, and stories with others. Elders were, and still are, the backbone of our tribal communities.” 

Elders are not just our grandparents, aunts, and uncles. They’re our former teachers and our current mentors. They’re people we work with and, on occasion, classmates. They’re leaders and culture keepers. They show us how to exist as proud indigenous people. We owe them everything we are today.

As you gather with beloved elders this season, take the opportunity to listen to their stories. In this season of giving, find ways to thank them for lighting our path. 

Many tribal communities have opportunities to give back this time of year. Some have volunteers put together food baskets to ensure elders are treated to a delicious holiday meal. Others organize programs to chop and deliver firewood to keep our relatives warm. And many communities host dinners or dances to honor the legacies our elders are creating. The Adopt-a-Native-Elder program from the Navajo Nation is just one great example of how tribal communities are lifting up elders. Contact your tribe to learn more about ways you can get involved and celebrate this season of giving.