Communication and Collaboration: Cross-Cultural Communication, Protocol, and Consensus-Building

As the Native Communities Learning Project: We Are Still Here series continues to move from reflection toward action, this session focuses on how communication and collaboration can either strengthen or undermine relationships with Native Nations and communities. Building on prior conversations about power, history, and cultural humility, this webinar centers on the practical skills and approaches needed to engage in respectful, effective cross-cultural partnerships. In this session, we will explore how communication is shaped by culture, history, and relationship, and why standard approaches to engagement may fall short in Native contexts. Participants will learn about the importance of tribal protocols, relationship-building practices, and honoring community-defined processes for decision-making. We will also examine approaches to consensus-building that prioritize listening, trust, and collective voice, rather than urgency or institutional timelines. Together, we will reflect on how to move from transactional interactions toward relational collaboration—where communication is grounded in respect, accountability, and a long-term commitment to partnership. This session will highlight how slowing down, listening deeply, and following community lead can create more meaningful and sustainable outcomes in early childhood systems work. Participants will leave with practical strategies for cross-cultural communication, a deeper understanding of protocol and relational accountability, and tools to support collaborative processes that center Native voice and leadership.

LINK TO REGISTER **This is an external event, NOT hosted by NICCA