​About The Nakani Native Program

“Nakani” is a Tlingit word for a person or entity which serves as a connector and go-between for different people, places and cultures.

The Nakani Native Program was formed in 2017 after the American Friends Service Committee laid down its Northwest Indian Program. AFSC supported the former staff and committee members in forming a new nonprofit organization to carry on work grounded in the roots of sixty years of service to Pacific Northwest Native American communities.

Governed by a committee composed mostly of members of Native tribes, Nakani’s priorities reflect the perceived needs of Native communities. We discern these through frequent contact and involvement with our partner organizations.

​The Nakani Native Program builds and strengthens leadership and organizational capacity in the Native community. We recognize the deep cultural conflicts that exist between mainstream society and Native Americans and bridge gaps to promote equity and social justice for all.

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An Outgrowth of AFSC After the Quaker non-profit, American Friends
Service Committee (AFSC), laid down its highly regarded Northwest Indian Program, AFSC supported the former staff and committee members in continuing their work.

Same Vision, New Strengths
Nakani carries the same vision and passion of the Indian Program under AFSC, but now has greater autonomy to continue the legacy of sixty years of service regarding Pacific Northwest Native issues.

​Our Mission

​“To provide social and political support to Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest, expressing values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equity.”

Our Vision

Powerful Indigenous peoples lead the world in protecting Mother Earth!
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