A close-up view of individuals dressed in traditional and colorful clothing, showcasing intricate embroidery and vibrant patterns. The focus is on their lower halves, with one person wearing a white shawl adorned with floral embroidery, while others display skirts with layered designs of ribbons and rich textures. The scene takes place indoors on a tiled floor.

Community

At its heart, NASA is a space of belonging and care for Indigenous community members at the University of Michigan. More than just an organization, NASA is a home away from home—a place where students, faculty, and community members come together to laugh with, advocate for, and support one another.

NASA hosts both informal gatherings and larger community events, creating opportunities for students to build relationships and share traditions. Whether it’s weekly hangouts, beading wellness events, dance practices, or road trips, time spent together strengthens the bonds that make this community so special. Each year, NASA also leads programming for Native American Heritage Month, ensuring that Native culture is not only seen but recognized on campus. These events honor the vibrance and enduring presence of Native peoples at UM. But some of the most meaningful moments in NASA happen behind the scenes—the internal gatherings that offer Native students a space to simply be. In these spaces, community members find opportunities to share experiences, learn from one another, and practice their cultures even when far from home. These moments of connection—of knowing and being known—are what truly sustain this community.

A group of individuals poses together indoors, standing side by side in front of a wooden-paneled wall with arched details. The image has a soft, desaturated tone, evoking a nostalgic or vintage feel. The individuals appear warm and approachable, showcasing a sense of camaraderie and connection in a casual setting.
A gathering of individuals outdoors, centered around a small group performing a drumming circle beneath a tree. Participants include both all genders, some holding drumsticks and engaging in song, while others stand in a wider circle, observing or joining in. The lush green grass and trees, combined with the casual and welcoming atmosphere, reflect a cultural or communal celebration.
A group of individuals stands in a semi-circle, some holding drums and drumsticks, performing in front of an audience during an event titled 'Fall Feast.' The projected background features a seasonal theme with orange and yellow leaves and berries, complementing the warm and festive atmosphere. The performers wear a mix of traditional and modern attire, celebrating cultural heritage in a communal setting.
An individual with long hair and a backpack holds a microphone, addressing a seated audience in an elegant hall with red walls, white columns, and classical statues. The setting suggests an academic or cultural gathering, with attendees seated at tables, attentively engaging in the event. The warm lighting adds a sense of intimacy and focus to the atmosphere.
A group of individuals wearing matching teal T-shirts with a globe design and text pose together in front of a large yellow 'M' on a blue background, representing the University of Michigan. The group is arranged in two rows, with adults and children in the front row, creating a sense of unity and inclusion. The scene reflects a community-oriented event or organization.
An artist seated at a table works intently under a desk lamp, surrounded by tools and materials, while speaking into a microphone. A person stands nearby, engaged in the process. In the background, a projection shows a close-up of hands carving intricate designs, highlighting the focus on craftsmanship and creativity. The atmosphere reflects an interactive workshop or demonstration setting.
An individual with curly red hair engages in a hands-on screen printing activity, carefully pressing a screen frame onto a surface. A second person, partially visible, provides guidance or assistance, their tattooed arm extending towards the frame. The workspace features tables covered in tools and supplies, with posters drying in the background, creating an artistic and collaborative atmosphere.
Three individuals are engaged in a warm and lively conversation indoors, with one person smiling broadly. The central figure wears a yellow skirt and white cardigan, gesturing as they speak, while the others listen attentively. The scene is illuminated with soft lighting, set against a backdrop of large windows, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
A vibrant photo captures three men posing together in a warmly lit room with red walls and white columns. The central figure wears a medallion necklace, while the others are dressed in contemporary attire. A woman in the foreground is photographing them with a phone, and additional people and artwork are visible in the background. The image highlights a moment of camaraderie and celebration within a cultural gathering.
A warm and intimate scene shows a food-serving station at a community gathering. A person in gloves serves food from a steaming tray, while a bearded man in a vibrant, traditional-patterned vest and hat carefully fills his uniquely designed bowl. A second person, dressed in red, waits with a white plate and bowl. In the background, an orange water cooler and blurred figures enhance the sense of a lively, shared meal. The image highlights a cultural celebration and communal spirit.
A participant proudly displays their artwork during a workshop, holding up a carved block and its corresponding printed design. The intricate blue design depicts feathers and a circular motif resembling a dreamcatcher, combining natural elements with artistic flair. The person's satisfied expression highlights the joy of creativity and hands-on learning. The workshop setting, blurred in the background, suggests a communal atmosphere where art and culture are celebrated and shared.
Two participants collaborate on a vibrant outdoor art project, using spray paint to create colorful floral patterns directly on the ground surrounding a rock. The intricate details include white flowers with yellow centers and bold orange and green accents with red strawberries, reflecting creativity and community spirit. Their focused engagement and the dynamic colors bring life to the scene.