URBAN NATIVE COLLECTIVE
Ohio's name originates from "Ohi:yó," a term in the Onöndowa’ga:’ (Seneca) language meaning "beautiful river," reflecting the longstanding Indigenous heritage of this region.
Today there are nearly 98,000 Indigenous individuals who call this region home. Despite these numbers, there are currently no federally or state recognized Tribal Nations in Ohio. This is important to note considering that only federally recognized tribes retain certain rights of self-government (i.e. tribal sovereignty) and are entitled to receive certain federal benefits, services, and protections because of their relationship with the United States.
So where do Indigenous individuals find community and support in our area? For many, there is Urban Native Collective. Based in Cincinnati, Urban Native Collective (UNC) was founded in 2019 through decades of grassroots activism across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Though they do not function as a governing body, UNC has grown into the largest urban Indigenous organization in the region, fostering community, solidarity and cultural pride. Their mission is to uplift and authentically represent Native and Indigenous Peoples through education, advocacy, and support through many programs such as their Urban Garden Project, wellness initiatives, indoor climbing nights and a free lending library.
One of UNC’s largest educational and community gatherings is their annual Indigenous People’s Day Convergence. This will be their 6th year hosting the anticipated multi-day celebration, which includes art exhibitions, speaker presentations and performances, and concludes with a communal feast which is open to the public.
“The theme of our gathering this year is Native Resistance and all of the unique and powerful ways that resistance manifests; through our joy, our art, and ultimately our existence. Our goal is to amplify authentic Indigenous voices to continue to show society that Native people are still here today.”
Cate Donahue, UNC Community Outreach & Events Manager
Coffee as a species has its origins in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, and its propagation throughout the world follows historical lines of colonialism. The fight for Indigenous representation and preservation of culture is a global issue - one we are witnessing in coffee-producing regions and locally. We recognize the contributions of Native communities and are proud to support initiatives like this that foster understanding, dialogue, and appreciation, paving the way for a future where every heritage is recognized and honored.
Funds from this round of the Community Blend Give Back will be used toward supporting Urban Native Collective in hosting this year’s Indigenous People’s Day Convergence. Through art exhibitions, discussions, and community gatherings, this four-day celebration offers a platform for Indigenous voices to reclaim their narratives and share their vibrant traditions.
