Indigenous Leaders Interactive System
ILIS Over the past 47 years, Americans for Indian Opportunity (AIO), founded by LaDonna Harris (Comanche), has brought people together to discuss provoking issues and to work on complex problems. Experience has proven that just bringing people together does not necessarily mean that a solution will be found and acted upon. A group will not endorse proactive solutions or act upon practical action plans unless people participate in a process of dialogue, enabling them to collectively define complex issues. In fact, without the use of a structured process for discussion, the situation usually gets worse.
ILIS: affirms the value of diverse opinions; identifies underlying causes of complex issues vs. band aids for symptoms; incorporates an Indigenous worldview and a communal approach; and fosters ownership in a collective outcome.
Process ILIS utilizes a systemic approach through which leaders can address the challenges facing their communities. The process utilizes computer software and traditional Indigenous participatory processes, protocols, social structures and value systems to facilitate effective, collective action. Through the process, stakeholders will be able to address complex issues by determining root causes to address underlying issues, thereby creating practical plans, with community buy-in. Participants receive process materials in real time and are able to immediately begin to address their issues.
Client List 7th Direction Advance Native American Political Leadership Assembly of Native American Voices Comanche Nation Dakota Wicohan Environmental Protection Agency
Equality New Mexico Institute of American Indian Arts National Urban Indian Families Coalition Native American Community Academy Native Voice Network Railyard Stewards Santa Fe Indian Center
United Houma Nation Winnebago Tribe
“The process was wonderful and effective in providing a strategic plan for the Santa Fe Indian Center. The whole board was very pleased. The process went smoothly and ended with great results. Having the deliverables available so quickly was amazing.� Kathryn Tijerina, Santa Fe Indian Center Board member
Contact Information
Americans for Indian Opportunity 1001 Marquette Ave NW Albuquerque, NM 87102 Phone: 505-842-8677 Fax: 505-842-8658 E-mail: aio@aio.org Website: www.aio.org