Traditional knowledge, culture, health, and spirituality are deeply interconnected with Native American sacred places. The Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has a long history of protecting these sites and supporting solutions grounded in Indigenous thinking. During this Native American Heritage Month and through the end of the year, NARF is highlighting ongoing efforts to protect sacred places.

Grassroots activists and cultural practitioners recently met with leaders in public health professions to discuss how access to and protection of sacred places affect the health of Indigenous communities. They also explored how public health as a profession could assist Indigenous practitioners in better accessing and protecting these sites. This dialogue took place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at a gathering convened by NARF and the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health.

"Bring the right people together and they can solve any problem," said NARF Staff Attorney Brett Lee Shelton.

NARF encourages donations this holiday season to support their work in protecting sacred places and Native American peoples.