NIPI
Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative
Hosted by The Office of Diversity and Equity
NIPI Mission
The Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative (NIPI) was created to bring about a comprehensive revival of the Native American community in San Mateo County through awareness, health education, and outreach which honors culturally appropriate traditional Native healing practices.
NIPI Vision
Our vision is to provide support and build a safe environment for the Native and Indigenous community in San Mateo. Additionally, our goal is to appreciate and respect Native American history, culture, and spiritual and healing practices. In our work, we will strive to reduce stigma, provide assistance in accessing health care and establish ongoing training opportunities and events for behavioral health staff and community partners.
NIPI Objectives
Increase Awareness: Improve visibility of the challenges faced by Native Americans and provide support for our community in San Mateo County.
Outreach and Education: Outreach to and educate San Mateo County employees and community partners on how better to serve our community.
Welcome and Support: Welcome community members, clients, consumers, and family. Assist individuals in accessing and navigating the San Mateo County health care system.
Strengthen our Community: Provide opportunities for our Native Americans to strengthen their skills and create a collaboration for guidance, education and celebration of our community.
Native American Heritage Month
2024 Native American Heritage Month Event info TBA.
The Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative has been formally recognized since 2012. If you are interested in learning more about the Native American Initiative, please contact Gloria Gutierrez or Silvia Salcedo.
2024 Indigenous Peoples Day
Community event
We collectively organize in NIPI to honor Indigenous Peoples Day in October and Native Heritage Month in November each year.
Join us in celebrating 2024 Native and Indigenous People’s Day on Saturday, October 12 from 10AM-12PM at Oyster Point (623 Marina Blvd, Oyster Point, SSF).
Come enjoy indigenous performances, behavioral health & wellness resources, and Special Guest Speaker, Charlene Eigen Vasquez, Chairwoman of the Confederation of the Ohlone People.
Contact ggutierrez@smcgov.org for more info.
The Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative is funded by the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA).