Rekindling the Pillars of Our Nation: Faith, Family, and Education

We are NASP are deeply committed to the well-being and prosperity of our nation. The strength of our country lies in the foundational pillars of faith, family, and education. However, in recent years, we have witnessed a disconnection from these pillars, leading to societal challenges. Despite these challenges, we remain optimistic. We can turn this country around by reenergizing these pillars and redefining success on our terms. This is not just a task but a purpose. This country is worth saving, and our mission aims to inspire others to join us in this endeavor.

Faith

Faith, in its broadest sense, is a profound belief in a higher power that guides our actions and gives meaning to our lives. It is not limited to religious faith but encompasses a deep-seated trust in the goodness of humanity and the universe. Notably, the freedom of religion, a principle enshrined in our Constitution, was intended to protect the spiritual practices of all citizens, including those of Native Americans, as discussed in American Indian Quarterly (1997). Unfortunately, we have witnessed a decline in this faith. According to a Pew Research Center study, the religious landscape of the United States has undergone dramatic changes in recent years, with a significant decrease in the number of adults who identify as Christians and an increase in those who describe their religious identity as atheist, agnostic, or “nothing in particular.” We can turn this around by returning faith and truth in the Creator.

Family

Traditionally considered the nucleus of society, the family has also undergone significant changes. Various family forms, including single-parent families, cohabiting couples, and blended families, have replaced the traditional nuclear family structure. While these changes reflect the evolving nature of our society, they have also brought challenges. A study by the American Psychological Association has shown that children from divorced families are more likely to experience academic, behavioral, and psychological problems than those from intact families. In the Native American community, we strive to keep our families together, a fight embodied in the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), a law designed to preserve Native families and culture. This commitment to family unity is a testament to our resilience and dedication to preserving our cultural heritage.

Education

Education is the cornerstone of a prosperous society. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to their communities and succeed in life. However, our education system has been grappling with learning loss and achievement gaps. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, with students in the United States likely to lose an average of five to nine months of learning by the end of this school year. To address these challenges, we advocate for parents’ choice and school choice, including the rise of micro-schools and schools that infuse Native language and culture into their curriculum. These educational models not only respect the diversity of our learners but also help to preserve and promote our rich Native heritage, thereby benefiting our children and our communities.

Despite these challenges, we are optimistic. We can turn this country around by reconnecting with our faith, strengthening our families, and investing in our education system. We must redefine success on our terms, not as societal norms or expectations dictate. Success should be about leading a fulfilling life, contributing to our communities, and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

Join us at NASP as we work towards rekindling the pillars of our nation. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can save this country.