By Matthew Johnson, National Native Children’s Trauma Center
Not all Indigenous youth have the opportunity to grow up connected to their biological families. Even in the absence of immediate biological relatives, there are ways for Indigenous youth to rebuild connections, reclaim their identities, and find the support they need to thrive. Here are several strategies to help Indigenous youth foster connection and belonging when biological family ties are limited or lost:
1. Build Chosen Family Through Community
Many Indigenous youth find strength and support through relationships with mentors, friends, Elders, and other community members. These individuals can serve as surrogate aunties, uncles, cousins, and grandparents—offering guidance, love, and wisdom in the spirit of kinship.
2. Connect with Cultural Organizations and Friendship Centers
Urban Indigenous organizations, friendship centers, and cultural programs often provide safe spaces to learn traditions, share experiences, and meet others who understand the complexities of being Indigenous in today's world. These spaces can become a hub for building identity and finding emotional support.
3. Seek Out Elders and Knowledge Keepers
Even if they are not blood relatives, Elders play a vital role in transmitting culture and offering support. Many Elders are open to mentoring youth and consider it part of their responsibility to help young people find their path.
4. Explore Indigenous Identity Through Language, Art, and Ceremony
Cultural reconnection can happen in many forms. Learning traditional languages, participating in ceremonies, practicing Indigenous arts, or even exploring stories and histories can help youth feel more connected to their heritage and ancestors, regardless of who raised them.
5. Join Peer Support Groups
Talking with other Indigenous youth who have similar experiences—such as being adopted, in care, or disconnected from family—can offer solidarity and reduce feelings of isolation. These groups often share coping strategies and healing practices that are culturally grounded.
6. Access Culturally Safe Mental Health Supports
Therapists, counselors, or support workers with Indigenous backgrounds or cultural training can provide trauma-informed care that respects traditional values and lived experiences. Mental health support can be critical in building resilience and addressing feelings of loss or disconnection.
7. Advocate for Kinship Reconnection
If it’s safe and desired, youth can work with advocates, social workers, or community leaders to trace family roots, reclaim names, or reunite with extended relatives. Reconnection, even later in life, can be an empowering act of healing.
Remember: Blood may tie us together, but connection, culture, and care are what truly define family in Indigenous worldviews. Every Indigenous youth—regardless of their circumstances—deserves the opportunity to feel rooted, loved, and supported by a broader community.