Honoring Native Cancer Survivors This June
June is Cancer Survivors Awareness Month, a time to honor the strength of those who live with a history of cancer, from diagnosis through healing and beyond. Within our tribal communities, cancer survivorship reflects not only individual resilience, but the strength of families, ancestors, and community.
American Indian and Alaska Native people often face barriers to cancer care, including long travel distances, limited access to specialty services, and historical inequities. Even so, survivorship in Native communities is deeply rooted in cultural teachings, spirituality, and the support we provide one another.
This month is a time to honor survivors, uplift caregivers, and remember those who continue to walk this journey. It is also a time to encourage wellness, early screening, and community care grounded in respect and tradition.
Community Call to Action:
We invite you to support Native cancer survivors by encouraging loved ones to get recommended cancer screenings, sharing trusted health information, supporting Native‑led health programs, and checking in on those who may be living with or beyond cancer. Listening, learning, and showing care are powerful ways we strengthen our community.
Together, we honor survivorship, resilience, and the generations who continue forward.