The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) announced that the Native American Workgroup (NAWG) of the New Mexico Cancer Council has recently been granted the 2023 Carol Friedman Excellence Award. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) bestowed this award, recognizing outstanding leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to the cause of comprehensive cancer control, and it is presented annually. This award serves as an acknowledgment of NAWG's significant contributions in mitigating cancer occurrences among Native American communities in New Mexico.
The role and achievements of NAWG have been instrumental in fighting cancer among the indigenous population. Established in 2009, NAWG advises the New Mexico Cancer Council on effective engagement with Native American communities. NAWG has made significant contributions, including resources such as "Implementing the New Mexico Cancer Plan in Native American Communities" and the "Facilitator Guide for Implementing the New Mexico Cancer Plan in Native Communities." Presently, the focus of NAWG is on implementing action plans for cancer care, specifically addressing elevated rates of colorectal cancer among New Mexico's indigenous population. The group's distinctive approach characterized by a diverse range of tribal programs, strong partnerships, and a commitment to culturally responsive cancer care earned them the award according to a press release by DOH.
The recognition received by NAWG comes with heartfelt praise and admiration from within their circles. "It is important that we elevate and champion the well-deserved recognition bestowed upon the New Mexico Cancer Council-Native American Workgroup as they proudly receive CDC's esteemed Carol Friedman Comprehensive Cancer Control Award for Excellence in Cultural Responsiveness," said Janet Johnson, Tribal Liaison for New Mexico Department of Health capturing the significance of their achievements according to a press release by DOH. "This honor stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering dedication, profound devotion, and remarkable efforts exhibited by the workgroup members. Their invaluable services have played a pivotal role in advancing Tribal health and well-being marking a significant contribution to the broader landscape of comprehensive cancer control."
Finally, it's worth acknowledging the esteemed authority that has granted this award. The CDC is the United States' foremost science-based, data-driven service organization dedicated to safeguarding public health according to the About webpage provided by CDC.