Welcome to the Native American Spiritual Leaders of California (NASLOC), a non-profit organization formed to promote communication and repair relationships with Indigenous peoples, and ultimately secure respect for their unique and important place in society and within institutional laws. Our goal is to reduce recidivism by empowering Native American incarcerated men, women, and youth to make healthy choices and reintegrate back into their communities.
NASLOC was formed to serve the Native American inmate population in California correctional facilities by offering enrichment opportunities through traditional teachings, trainings, ceremonies, and cultural values. Our purpose is to reduce recidivism by building bridges through cultural teachings, resulting in safer and healthier communities, and traditional healing of historical trauma.
Our team of Native American Spiritual Leaders/Advisors work in various State of California Correction facilities, focuses on institutional residents needs, spiritual & cultural teachings, dance, songs, drumming, red road & talking circles, counseling & mentoring, reentry, consultation, as well as the needs of the communities these residents belong to.
OUR MISSION
To teach, guide, and mentor incarcerated Native Americans through the practice of Native American-Indigenous spirituality, ceremonies, and cultural values.
Our Vision
For incarcerated Native American-Indigenous men, women, and youth to be positively integrated back into their communities.
A History of Prayer and Struggle
NASLOC is rooted in a rich history of struggle and perseverance to restore healing in the Native American community. From the 1950s, when relocation efforts aimed to eliminate Indian Country, to the present day where NASLOC has 32 Spiritual Leaders/Advisors positions, our organization has been working to improve the lives of Native American incarcerated persons in California.
Religious Freedom Act
The American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) of 1978 marked a significant moment in history, granting Native Americans the right to freely practice their religion in institutions such as prisons. NASLOC continues to build upon this legacy, working with State Correction facilities to ensure the religious rights of Native American inmates are respected and upheld.
Struggle to Pray
In 2010, the US Census reported that 38% of incarcerated persons in the US were American Indian or Alaskan Native. Despite this disproportionate representation, the struggle to practice their religion in institutions has been ongoing. NASLOC has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of Native American prisoners, providing support and guidance to ensure they can connect with their spirituality, culture, and traditions.
Meet the Board Members
Get to know the dedicated individuals behind NASLOC. Our Board Members are committed to the well-being of Native American communities and the reduction of recidivism through cultural teachings and spiritual practices.
