by Sacramento, CA – In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, a remarkable Sacramento-based nonprofit, the Native Sisters Circle, is making a profound impact by helping young Native American girls embrace their cultural identity and build lasting confidence. Since its founding in 2018, this close-knit community group has offered a safe space for Native girls to connect, lead, and reclaim pride in their heritage.
The organization’s mission goes beyond cultural celebration—it is about healing, empowerment, and fostering leadership among its members. Through weekly meetings and community activities, these girls are learning to stand proudly as leaders in both their heritage communities and broader society.
A Circle of Healing and Strength
At the heart of the Native Sisters Circle are the talking circles, a traditional practice that promotes equality and open dialogue. These sessions often serve as mental health support, helping girls find their voice and build trust.
“The circle teachings, for us as a tribal community, means that there’s equality. Everyone is equal. We sit in a circle,” said Leticia Aguilar, founder of the group. “The more that we can create trust, that’s the goal.”
- The group gathers every Tuesday evening in a small community room in Sacramento County.
- Members share meals, prayers, and laughter, strengthening their bonds and cultural connection.
- Talking circles provide a safe environment for emotional expression and peer support.
From Struggle to Leadership
Leticia Aguilar was inspired to create the Native Sisters Circle after witnessing her own daughter’s struggles with identity. Her daughter, Angelina Hinojosa, is one of the original members and now helps guide other girls to become confident leaders.
“Every girl walking in here not knowing what they’re going to do today, but knowing that they’re being who they are, and being comfortable here, and knowing they can say, ‘Hey, this is my safe space,'” said Hinojosa.
Aguilar emphasized the transformative nature of the program: “They are already powerful. They’re so powerful within their own selves already.”
Cultivating Future Advocates and Leaders
Beyond the weekly gatherings, members of the Native Sisters Circle are taking on leadership roles in their communities by hosting workshops and leading youth conferences. This real-world application of their skills highlights the program’s success in developing advocates for Native youth.
Read Also: Former Anchor Angelynn Mock Charged with First-Degree Murder in Fatal Stabbing of Elderly Mother
- Girls advocate for causes they are passionate about.
- They participate in events like the 2nd Annual Native American Heritage Month Parade at the California State Capitol.
- The group helps instill a lifelong sense of pride and responsibility.
For more information on the Native Sisters Circle and its initiatives, visit their official page at CBS Sacramento.
Join the Movement
The Native Sisters Circle stands as a powerful example of how community-driven efforts can foster resilience, identity, and leadership in Native youth. As they continue to grow, their impact reverberates across Sacramento and beyond.
What do you think about this inspiring community effort? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
