This project immerses students in understanding cultural competence and its role in achieving unity amidst diversity, contrasting it with concepts of ethnocentrism and bias. Through experiential learning, students will delve into Native American history and contemporary issues, analyzing the effects of settler colonialism and federal policies, while exploring efforts for cultural preservation and self-governance. The initiative fosters critical thinking and empathy as students connect past injustices to present realities, culminating in community-engaged exhibitions and symposia that highlight their research and insights on Indigenous narratives and rights.

Students will strengthen cultural competence skills by identifying and addressing personal biases, while analyzing the impacts of these biases on Native American communities past and present. They will investigate the history and culture of pre-contact Native American societies and understand the effects of settler colonialism and federal policies on Indigenous independence and cultural preservation. Through partnerships with community organizations and cultural centers, students will develop empathy and appreciation for Indigenous narratives, fostering skills in multimedia communication to advocate for current Native American rights and cultural issues.

Students will create documentary videos or podcasts that explore contemporary Native American issues, incorporating interviews with community partners to provide authentic insights. Additionally, they will craft visual diaries or scrapbooks that trace their journey through cultural competence, bias, and Native American history. These products will be showcased at public events, such as the 'Indigenous Rights and Narratives Symposium' and 'Cultural Competence Showcase,' allowing students to present their findings and reflections to a broader audience.

Kick off the project with a "Settler Colonialism Timeline Expedition," where students collaboratively create a visual timeline highlighting key cultural milestones and the impacts of policy on Native Americans. Assemble this activity into an interactive gallery walk, allowing students to engage with the material and ask questions in small groups. Use the timeline as a basis for initiating a deeper round-table discussion, moderated by community partners, where students explore the roles of cultural competence, bias, and unity in diversity.

Organize a 'Cultural Competence Showcase' where students present their visual diaries and scrapbooks alongside traditional Native American music or dance performances, inviting family and community members. Conduct an 'Indigenous Expo' featuring student-led seminars and displays on pre-contact lifestyles and federal policy impacts, utilizing audio-visual multimedia projects. Host an 'Indigenous Rights and Narratives Symposium' for students to unveil their podcasts and research on contemporary Indigenous issues, engaging in dialogue with community partners and experts.