UICSL August 2026 Newsletter: We Value T.H.E. P.E.O.P.L.E

As we close out one of the hottest months on record in Utah, I also want to acknowledge things heating up for our services – July saw our highest number of clients and participants ever. We want to thank everyone for being patient with us as we continue to develop and enhance our organization to be a better community partner but also figure out ways to provide more resources.

Some of our July highlights include an expansion of our summer youth programming as we expand our Family and Community Services through two new hires who bring with them a wealth of knowledge and passion for prevention and working with youth. We were also fortunate to partner with the University of Utah for a delegation of over 30 nursing students from their sister campus in South Korea for half a day of shared knowledge about Indigenous culture, how it’s incorporated into healing practices, food, and tours of several of our facilities. We rounded off the month with a visit from some of our Elders to share their stories and wisdom at our All-Staff Meeting. When I first stepped into this role, I engaged myself with the Elders of the community – I sat and listened to their stories, learned the history of the Center and what brought them to the SLC area. Over time, I came to realize the pivotal role we play as an organization and what UICSL means in people’s lives that want to stay connected to their culture and tribal identities. It really is an honor for all of us here at UICSL to serve as that bridge and connection.

As we move out of summer and children head back to school (you made it, parents!) I am excited for a few bigger events – one of them new. On August 1st, we will be holding our annual back to school fair – always a great opportunity for community partners and families to gather. Seeing children smile as they receive new backpacks, have their faces painted, enjoy produce and snacks, and seeing friends they have not seen in a while is always a joy and one of my favorites each year.

UICSL is also excited to announce we will be hosting the inaugural Urban Nations Powwow on September 12th at the Smith’s Ballpark – old home of the Salt Lake Bees. This discussion has been going on with the city for almost a year, and we feel very fortunate to finally make it happen and bring some life back into the stadium but also the broader community. We realize how often UICSL held powwows in our main community center for so many growing up around Utah and recently went through photos for many of those events.

Just as with learning from our Elders, it has encouraged us to recognize our history and continue to build upon those foundations. This is something consistently resonating with us and going into the back part of this year will come to light with some new initiatives.

With gratitude and respect,

Matt Poss, Executive Director

Yá’át’ééh (Navajo) and Haluuġivsi (Inupiat)!

My name is Collyn, and I was born and raised in Anchorage, AK. My mom is from Shiprock, NM and is full Navajo. Then my father is from Anchorage, but is descended from the Inupiat people of Nome, Teller and Mary's Igloo. I have lived in Utah since 2012 (with the exception for my 2-year LDS mission), I am married with two beautiful daughters (one of them just born in June), and have a BA in political science from BYU and an MA in Community Leadership from Westminster University.

As I reflect on this time of year, I find myself thinking deeply about what it means to belong to such a vibrant and resilient Native community here in Salt Lake City. The Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake is more than a place—it is a living expression of culture, connection, and collective strength. Every gathering, every program, and every shared story reinforces that our community is not only present, but thriving.

Pioneer Day carries layered meaning for Native communities. While it commemorates the arrival of settlers in Utah, it also invites us to reflect on the histories that existed long before and the realities that followed. For many of us, it is a time to honor the endurance of Native peoples, acknowledge the complexity of our shared history, and recommit to ensuring that Native voices, perspectives, and leadership are visible and valued today.

That leadership is all around us. I am continually inspired by the Native professionals and leaders in our community who are pioneering in their own right. Just look at my Native colleagues on the Board who are advancing innovation in aerospace, earning PhDs in engineering and shaping the future of science and technology, practicing and teaching good medicine, advocating for Native communities in law, policy, and government—these are modern-day pioneers. They are breaking barriers, expanding opportunities, and carrying forward a legacy of strength and ingenuity.

At the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake, we are proud to be part of that story. We are a place where culture is preserved, where community is strengthened, and where future generations can see what is possible. As we move forward, may we continue to uplift one another, celebrate our achievements, and honor the paths that brought us here.

Thank you for being part of this community.

Collyn Mosquito, Board of Directors, Diné and Inupiat

In December 2024, Cleon Yazzie was hired as UICSL’s facilities manager, marking a homecoming. As a member of the Navajo tribe, Yazzie was a board member of UICSL over a decade ago. Yazzie brings a wealth of management and construction experience to his role, which now includes operations. Recently, he reflected on his nearly 15-year association with the Center for this month’s spotlight.

Read more about Cleon Yazzie: August Employee Spotlight

Rebalancing Culture: Used Book Day

Our Used Book Day was a great way to wind down the week and get some books into the hands of our community! This was an opportunity for our relatives to come in and enjoy looking at all the donated books and have the time and the right place to relax and be in the moment. Salt Lake Public Library brought in a wandering librarian at this event to assist our relatives with signing up for a library card. We had 6 individuals sign up, and that lets us know the community knows the importance of keeping our minds strong.

We appreciate the donated books from many local organizations like Kings English Bookshop and the Salt Lake Public Library. Community also made a huge donation, and we appreciate all the support.

Know The Warning Signs

Pregnancy changes your body in ways that can be exciting, exhausting, and sometimes unexpected. After your baby is born, those changes don't stop. That's why it's important to pay attention to how you're feeling and know when something doesn't seem right.

If you notice severe pain, heavy bleeding, trouble breathing, swelling that comes on suddenly, a persistent headache, or you're feeling overwhelmed in a way that doesn't feel like yourself, don't wait to ask for help. Your health is just as important as your baby's, and getting care early can make a difference.

At UICSL, we want Native mothers and families to know they're not alone. Whether you have questions, need support, or aren't sure if what you're experiencing is normal, we're here to help. Every pregnancy and postpartum journey is different, and you deserve care that respects you, your family, and your experiences.

If you'd like to learn more or speak with someone, give us a call at 801-486-4877.

Summer Youth Program

The Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake Summer Youth and Teen Programs provided safe, engaging, and culturally enriching experiences through activities such as traditional stick games, Powwow singing and dancing, educational field trips, recreation, and, for the teen program, a University of Utah campus tour. Participants built cultural connections, learned new skills, strengthened friendships, and stayed enthusiastic throughout the summer.

Overall, both programs promoted cultural pride, learning, friendship, and personal growth while creating lasting summer memories. The strong participation and excitement shown by youth and teens reflected the programs’ positive impact and anticipation for future opportunities.

UICSL Legacy Mural Sticker Campaign

Did you know we have a Legacy Mural Sticker Campaign going on here at UICSL? We have taken all of the original UICSL artwork from our main hall and made them into stickers. You can collect all 14 images! This month, we are highlighting Pediatrics at our Murray Clinic!

To claim your sticker:

• Schedule an appointment
• Attend/complete the appointment
• Visit the receptionist after your appointment to retrieve your monthly sticker!

If you'd like to learn more or speak with someone, give us a call at 801-486-4877.

Rebalancing Culture: Advacned Diné Bizaad

We are winding down our Advanced Diné Bizaad course with 1 class remaining in our Advanced course. This marks 23 weeks of Diné Bizaad with 7 classes remaining in our 30-week program!

Community members came together to learn more about budgeting, saving money, managing debt, and planning for emergencies during a financial literacy workshop with Deborah and her assistant Deann. They shared vital information and encouraged community members to build a financial literacy mindset by setting goals, staying out of debt, and creating plans for their future.

This particular class involves more of the language and less of the English language. Our facilitator reminds us often to “leave the English at the door.” Each participant is building strong connections by practicing asking for things or practicing saying, “hand me this” or “hand me that.” They have gained more comfort speaking with each other, and they are okay with making mistakes because each participant is very supportive of one another.

It is good to see fluent speakers show up and support those who are learning. The community is appreciating the immersion of the language and how important it is to stick with it. Elders are remembering simple phrases they may have forgotten, participants are smiling more, and the room continues to fill with more hope each class.

We are appreciative of our language facilitator as she makes every moment count by creating lessons that fit each participant, providing videos for after-hours learning, and offering communication and support for those who may need extra help. This is what community looks like at UICSL through the Rebalancing Culture Program.

Our Conversational Diné Bizaad class begins September 2, 2026.

For more information, contact: Honey Rhonda DuVall at (801) 214-7668 or rduvall@uicsl.org.

UICSL Youth Council UNITY Conference

Local Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake (UICSL) Youth Council leaders were represented at the 50th Annual United National Indian Tribal Youth Conference in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, held on July 9-14, 2026. UNITY’s Mission is to foster the spiritual, mental, physical, and social development of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth, and to help build a strong, unified, and self-reliant Native America through greater youth involvement. UNITY is a national network organization promoting personal development, citizenship, and leadership among Native American youth. UNITY has an impressive 50-year track record of empowering and serving AI/AN youth. UNITY is well regarded among the nation’s Native American organizations, tribal leaders, and government officials. (unityinc.org) UICSL Youth Council representatives are:

Kailah Figueroa, a proud member of the Navajo Nation, a student at the University of Utah, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, with an emphasis in Ecojustice Education. Entering her senior year, she will be graduating in the Spring of 2027. Outside of school, Kailah enjoys the outdoors, such as hiking, paddle boarding, and camping. After graduation, Kailah plans to work for the National Park Service as a Park Ranger.

Jade Horse (Navajo, Eastern Shoshone, Paiute, Confederated Tribes of Goshute), a transfer student from Salt Lake Community College, is entering the University of Utah as a junior in the Fall of 2026. Jade enjoys being involved in serving his community through local events, powwows, and Urban Indian Center programs. Jade enjoys listening to music, physical activity, spending quality time with family, and cooking!

Kiyani Benally is a member of the Navajo Nation. Kiyani is a sophomore at Salt Lake Community College and is majoring in Biology. She is an avid MMA fighter and weightlifter. Kiyani enjoys listening to music and working with Native American youth and community.

If you are interested in joining the Urban Indian Center Youth Council (18-24), please get in touch with Zoe John (Prevention Specialist) at zjohn@uicsl.org.