Email from Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Us This November! CSVANW is a 501(c)(3) organization that is funded in part by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Justice.     HOME ABOUT US BECOME A MEMBER   November 2025 Newsletter Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) is a time to honor our ancestors, recognize the histories and movements that brought us here, and celebrate the resilience and visibility of Native peoples today. At CSVANW, NAHM reflects our mission to stop violence against Native women and children, our vision of thriving and safe Native communities, and our values of kinship, culture, inclusiveness, innovation, and healing. This year, CSVANW’s NAHM campaign is guided by the theme “Protecting our Relatives, Preserving our Future.” Our core message is clear: For 30 years, CSVANW has stood with survivors, families, and Tribal Nations to break cycles of violence and honor the strength of our ancestors. This November, we uplift Native voices, protect our relatives, and preserve our future through culture, kinship, and healing. Throughout November, CSVANW will use both digital and community-based tactics to inspire action and engagement. Online, we will share staff and youth storytelling, educational carousels, and Rock Your Mocs Week activities. In the community, we will table at events, grow membership, and uplift organizational partnerships. Together, these efforts build awareness, raise support, and sustain survivor-centered, culturally rooted advocacy. Native American Heritage Month is more than recognition; it is a call to protect our relatives and preserve our future. Join us this November by attending events, becoming a member, and supporting CSVANW’s work to ensure Native voices, traditions, and movements remain central to our collective healing and sovereignty. #NAHM2025 #CycleBreakersSince1492 #CSVANW30Years   As CSVANW continues to grow and strengthen, we are excited to share recent organizational leadership transitions with our community partners, relatives, and supporters. We are proud to celebrate the incredible leaders within our team who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to our mission of ending violence against Native women and children through education, advocacy, and community support. Nicole Michelena | Diné Executive Deputy Director In her new role, Nicole supports organizational operations, leadership alignment, and program development alongside the Executive Director. Her work ensures that CSVANW continues to grow in strength, accountability, and sustainability. Patrick (Pat) Gallegos - Senior Violence Response Training Coordinator Pat continues to strengthen and expand statewide training efforts that support advocates, responders, and Tribal partners. Their leadership in violence response reflects deep care, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to survivor-centered practices. Melissa Riley, Ph.D | Mescalero Apache - Programs Director Melissa leads CSVANW’s training, education, and event initiatives with a focus on cultural resilience, collaboration, and program infrastructure. Her vision continues to guide our organization’s growth and connection with communities statewide.   GIVE TODAY! Give for Cycle Breaking On December 2, 2025, people across the world will come together for GivingTuesday to harness the power of human connection and strengthen our communities. The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) is honored to be part of this movement and invites our relatives to support us as we continue the work of breaking cycles of violence in Tribal communities. Your generosity will help empower our people, support our advocates, and honor the resilience of our Survivors as we work toward healing and strength for our communities. Together, we can create positive change and build a safer future for all. This GivingTuesday, each dollar donated helps CSVANW continue the work of advocacy, education, and community care through three key initiatives:  Supporting Our Little Ones Providing Indigenous-authored books through our Little Ones Holiday Book Drive to nurture literacy, pride, and belonging among Native children and families that are in domestic violence shelters during the holidays. Strengthening Community Training Expanding trauma-informed, culturally rooted trainings for advocates, service providers, community members, and first responders who serve survivors and families. Uplifting Native Youth Investing in youth-led leadership and healing programs that nurture the next generation of cycle breakers. Learn More Nominate an Advocate Every quarter, we take time to celebrate individuals whose heart and work shine in the movement to end violence against Native women, children, and communities. These advocates embody compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to their people. They lead with culture, uplift community, and walk in the values of kinship, healing, and tradition. Through their efforts in education, prevention, and support, they create lasting change and inspire others to follow their lead. Community members, colleagues, and CSVANW staff are welcome to nominate someone who exemplifies these qualities. Nominate 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Event December 5, 2025 Indian public culture Center For 30 years, the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) has stood at the heart of our communities, breaking cycles of violence and planting seeds of healing. Since 1995, we have walked alongside survivors, families, Tribal Nations, and Pueblos across New Mexico, creating safe spaces, uplifting voices, and advocating for meaningful change. From the very beginning, we have been cycle breakers, committed to building safer communities and healthy families. Today, CSVANW leads with kinship, culture, and innovation. We train hundreds of advocates, support survivors, and help shape policies that protect Native women and children in New Mexico and beyond. Now, as we mark three decades of movement and medicine, we invite you to celebrate with us. Together, we will honor the past, celebrate the present, and invest in a future free from violence. Join us as we uplift the next generation of cycle breakers through art, stories, and collective action. MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON! Call for Artists Celebrating 30 Years of Cycle Breaking In honor of CSVANW’s 30th Anniversary, we invite members, youth, advocates, relatives, and community partners to submit artwork that reflects the impact of our movement to end violence against Native women and families. Deadline to submit: November 21, 2025 Formats: All mediums welcome (painting, pottery, drawing, beadwork, textile, digital art, photography, poetry-as-art, etc.) Usage: Selected pieces will be featured in our Anniversary exhibit and art auction on December 5, 2025, with early submissions previewed October 3 at IPCC. Submit online or drop off at the CSVANW office. Learn More & Submit Here Sacred Seeds: Reproductive Justice Healing Circle November 13th, 2025 | 9AM - 3PM | Location: TBD Please join CSVANW at our Sacred Seeds: Reproductive Justice Healing Circle — a space to foster meaningful conversations surrounding Native women and girls’ experiences with their own reproductive health. Together, we’ll explore the current political and legislative landscape of reproductive rights in Tribal communities and share tools and knowledge to help women better advocate for their rights. Women in our communities deserve access to real knowledge and resources to protect and strengthen their reproductive health. Registration is now open, and spots are limited! We look forward to sharing this powerful space of learning, reflection, and healing with you. Register Community Advocacy Meeting November 13, 2025 | 10: 30 AM - 12: 00 PM | Virtual CSVANW will be holding our Community Advocacy Meetings where we will grow relationships with our Tribal Advocates in sharing resources, learning from presentations that aid in the work we do in community, and sharing updates on policies and events. Tribal Advocates are those who are committed to community advocacy in alignment with CSVANW’s values of kinship, healing, and inclusiveness. The impact these meetings have for Tribal communities enhance service delivery from Tribal Advocate Attendees. The relationships created between tribes and CSVANW bridge the gaps of event support, information sharing, opportunities for PPE support, and training. Advocates will have a safe virtual space to communicate barriers and find support from each other and CSVANW, without sharing confidential survivor-identifying information. Please come in the spirit of inclusiveness, respect, and shared safety. This month, we will be hosting our Sacred Seeds Reproductive Healing Circle Event. This gathering will be an opportunity to foster meaningful conversations surrounding Native women and girls' experiences with their own reproductive health, as well as to inform our Tribal communities about the current political and legislative landscape of reproductive rights. Register Rethinking Manhood - A Healthy Masculinities Workshop November 19, 2025 | 9AM - 4PM | ABQ, NM Native men ages 18–25 are invited to join us for a one-day workshop focused on connection, culture, and growth. When: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Where: UNM Continuing Education, 1634 University Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87131 Participants will explore traditional teachings, storytelling, and crafts, while engaging in positive masculinity workshops designed to strengthen identity and community ties. This session lays the groundwork for deeper connection and personal growth throughout the day. 🍽️ Lunch will be provided. 💵 Participants will receive a $50 stipend for attending the full workshop. This workshop is made possible by the New Mexico Women Grant. Register Membership Meeting November 18, 2025 | 9AM - 1PM | CSVANW Office Join the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women for our Quarter 4 Membership Meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (MST) at our office in Albuquerque. This quarter’s theme, Celebrating Native American Heritage Month, honors the strength and stories of our communities as we reflect on our shared work to protect, educate, and advocate for Native women and children. Come connect with fellow members, share updates, and celebrate our collective impact. Register The Breaking Cycles of Violence Conference, formerly the Tribal Leaders Summit, is a cornerstone gathering hosted by the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW). This conference brings together Tribal leaders, advocates, policymakers, and service providers to strengthen community responses to violence and deepen understanding through the lenses of Tribal sovereignty, justice, and healing. In 2026, under the theme “Protecting Our Future, Healing Our Past,” we invite participants to explore how our communities can transform systems, honor survivors, and build pathways to end violence through culturally resilient and community-led approaches. MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON! Learn More   Our Stories, Our Strength: Voices of Cycle Breakers Storytelling has always been medicine. For generations, our stories have carried the wisdom of our ancestors reminding us of who we are, where we come from, and how we continue to heal. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), we honor those who use their voices to break cycles of violence, reclaim safety, and guide our [...] Read More Running Towards Healing and Justice By: Ang Gonzales (they) intern at CSVANW Community Voice This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I had the profound honor of running alongside fellow survivors in the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) 10th Annual, I Will Run for Them 5k event. The collective strength, healing, and deep engagement I witnessed within the tribal [...] Read More   October 2025 - Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women is honored to partner with IPCC to showcase our 30-Year Anniversary Art Exhibit. For three decades, we have stood alongside Tribal communities across New Mexico, advocating, educating, and fighting to end domestic violence, sexual assault, and violence against Native women and children. This milestone is not just our story, it’s the story of the movement, of survivors, and of the relatives and communities who have carried this work forward. Celebrate with CSVANW as we uplift 30 years of cycle breaking by supporting the next 30 years of this movement by making a donation to CSVANW. Together, we can create a future free of violence. #CSVANW #30YearsStrong #EndViolence #NativeWomen  October 2025 - CSVANW tabled at the City of Los Lunas Get Up and Get Moving event. The day had many resources vendors, bringing together state and local entities. The main purpose of the event is to provide resources and vital information to the local community. Also providing health screenings, flu vaccines shots, public safety information and so much more. Community care is very important to CSVANW. CSVANW handed out PPE, informational sheets, our event flyers and CSVANW swag. Thank you City of Los Lunas for a great event. #CSVANW #CommunityCare #InTheCommunity October 2025 - CSVANW was honored to join the Bernalillo County Domestic Violence Providers Gathering, hosted by the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NMCADV) on October 6th. This powerful event brought together community leaders, advocates, and organizations to strengthen collaboration and our collective response to domestic violence. CSVANW was grateful to speak about the urgent issues impacting our Native communities and why our legislative funding efforts are vital to prevention and healing. We also uplift Enlace Comunitario, S.A.F.E. House, NM Asian Family Center, and the Domestic Violence Resource Center for their life-saving work supporting survivors and families every day. Together, we can create safety, healing, and hope. #CSVANW #EndDV #HealthyFamiliesHealthyCommunities October 2025 - CSVANW hosted its monthly virtual Community Advocacy Meeting with Tribal advocates across New Mexico. In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, CSVANW hosted a panel of Native female founders to discuss the topic, “Cycle Breaking Since 1492.” Incredible leaders including Dr. Peggy Bird, Gwen Packard, and Dr. Christina M. Castro discussed a wide array of challenges and sources of inspiration that keep them motivated in their work in community. CSVANW Board Member, Sharnen Velarde, facilitated the discussion. Advocates and community members left the conversation feeling rooted in the power of sisterhood and full of hope for the possibility of a brighter and violence free future. # #CAM #CSVANW #CycleBreakers October 2025 - CSVANW had the incredible opportunity to present at the 2025 13th Annual National Native Harm Reduction Summit on White Earth Nation in Mahnomen, Minnesota. CSVANW staff presented on harm reduction through the lens of Land and Body Violence and Trafficking exploitation, developing solution-oriented objectives on how to build safe communities affected by extractive industries and the violence associated with those industries. Participants were engaged in many issues related to their communities, expressing how deeply environmental pollution from extractive industries have affected Native lands and worsened violence in Native communities. CSVANW was able to make many connections with other tribal victim advocates and peer support advocates who felt deeply connected to the material. Thank you to White Earth Nation for hosting CSVANW staff and for all the wonderful advocates and community members who joined us! #CSVANW #LandAndBodyViolence #NoMoreStolenRelatives #MMIW October 2025 - CSVANW was excited to host our 10th annual I Will Run for Them 5K. Held at the beautiful Isleta Lakes and RV Park. October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)—a time to come together to raise awareness, foster healing, and strengthen our community’s commitment to ending violence. As part of this effort, CSVANW was honored to host our 10th annual I Will Run for Them 5K Run. This event was more than just a run—it was a collective act of remembrance, resilience, and advocacy. We gathered to uplift the voices and experiences of our Native relatives who have been impacted by domestic violence, to honor the survivors who continue to persevere, to acknowledge the cycle-breakers who are creating change for future generations, and to remember with love and reverence those whose lives were tragically taken by violence. Thank you for being a valued donor, sponsor, volunteer, vendor, and participant of CSVANW’s 10th Annual I Will Run for Them 5K. Some people even signed up to run from home. Your generosity, time, and support helped make this meaningful event possible. We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our shared mission of ending violence and fostering healing in our Native communities. This year Isleta Resort and Casino and Isleta Lakes allowed CSVANW to share space in a beautiful location. The day was beautiful with a blessing from the Governor of Isleta and great words and welcome form our Executive Director. We had Kiss 97.3's DJ Ando play great music and hand out prizes to our participants. Albuquerque Isotopes Orbit paid a visit to support with the Little Cycle Breakers Run. CSVANW had awesome vendors show up and provide information about their organization.  CSVANW handed out t-shirts, running bibs, and stickers to the participants, we had awesome volunteers show their support to CSVANW. CSVANW thanks all that participated to make this event awesome. #10thAnnualIWillRunForThem #CommunityCare #IsletaPueblo October 2025 - CSVANW joined relatives, advocates, and community members at the She Cried That Day Justice Rally in Santa Fe to honor the lives of our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives. CSVANW stands alongside families, survivors, and communities impacted by this ongoing crisis, and remain committed to ensuring that every Native person is safe, seen, and supported. We encourage our community to see the film She Cried That Day if you get the opportunity at an upcoming premier event, a powerful story of love, loss, and the unwavering strength of Indigenous women. A special thank you to Amanda Erickson and See Clearly Productions for your partnership and for creating a voice for those who never got the chance to speak. Your work continues to bring truth and visibility to our relatives who deserve justice. Together, we are breaking cycles of violence and reclaiming our power as Indigenous peoples. #MMIWR #JusticeForOurRelatives #CSVANW #CycleBreakers October 2025 -The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) had the privilege of hosting a comprehensive training event at the Inn of the Mountain Gods in Mescalero, NM. The gathering brought together several dedicated service providers, including the outstanding Mescalero Apache victim service staff, social workers, representatives from the US Attorney General’s Office in Las Cruces, victim service providers from Alamogordo, NM Legal Aid, and Cochiti Pueblo staff. CSVANW extends heartfelt gratitude to the Vice President of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Duane Duffy, and the tribal administrator, whose presence and support ensured all participants enjoyed a welcoming and accommodating environment. The day began with a warm welcome, setting a tone for in-depth discussions on the realities of sexual violence in New Mexico tribal communities. Key training topics included historical trauma, legal frameworks, and trauma-informed care approaches tailored to tribal contexts. Participants engaged in interactive discussions on multidisciplinary team collaboration, secondary trauma and provider wellness, and family/community healing. The closing presentation reviewed and highlighted a shared commitment to healing and prevention. CSVANW is deeply grateful to all who attended, shared expertise, and supported the vision for safer, healthier communities. This event underscored the power of collaboration, cultural resilience, and ongoing coalition efforts. We look forward to continuing this essential work - together. #InTheCommunity #Mesclero #EndingSexualViolence October 2025 - The Albuquerque City Council read the proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a powerful reminder that our community stands with survivors. We’re proud to share that our Executive Director, Tiffany Jiron, was nominated and accepted the role of Co-Chair for the City’s Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Commission. Together, we continue breaking cycles of violence and leading with healing, culture, and kinship.  #CSVANW #CycleBreakers #EndViolence #CommunityHealing #ABQ October 2025 - The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) attended the 2nd Annual Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Awareness Summit at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). The summit brought together community members, advocates, impacted families and organizations committed to addressing the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous peoples. The event featured panel discussions focused on social change, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, male allies, and the impact of grassroots organizations in advancing justice and healing. Attendees also participated in breakout sessions designed to foster dialogue, collaboration, and community-driven strategies. Throughout the day, resource booths were available to share information and connect participants with vital support services and advocacy networks. CSVANW was honored to be part of this important gathering, standing in solidarity with relatives, allies, and partners working to raise awareness and promote meaningful change for our Indigenous communities. #MMIWR #NoMoreStolenRelatives #MMIRawareness October 2025 - CSVANW tabled at the Laguna Development Corporation Resource Fair in Casa Blanca, NM. The day brought together many different health corporations, community resources, and local support shelters all with purpose of informing the employees of Laguna Development Corporation of services and opportunities offered to them. CSVANW appreciates the support given to Laguna Development Corporation staff benefiting their growth. CSVANW had many visitors to the Coalition table. CSVANW handed out PPE, briefs, stickers, and sister organization briefs. CSVANW had many people sign up for the monthly Newsletter. Thank you, Laguna Development Corporation, for a great day. #InTheCommunity #LDC #CommunityResource October 2025 - CSVANW staff presented at the New Mexico Crime Victim Reparations Commission's 2025 Victim Advocacy Training (VAT). CSVANW presented on the topic of best practices for victim advocates to support Native survivors of violence in their work as service providers, and participants discussed the intergenerational impact of domestic violence, gender-based violence, and sexual violence on the Native communities they serve. Participants had the unique opportunity to develop cultural competence and build their capacity to support Tribal service providers and victim advocates in their respective fields of work to achieve a shared vision of healthy communities free from violence. Thank you to NM CVRC for the invitation and thank you to all our wonderful training participants! #DVAM #BelieveSurvivors #ViolenceIsNotOurTradition October 2025 - The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) had the honor of attending the Domestic Violence Awareness Conference hosted at the Zuni Pueblo Wellness Center in Zuni, NM This event brought together community members and local partners dedicated to ending domestic violence and strengthening support for survivors and families. In attendance were representatives from New Beginnings, Zuni Dispatch Center, Zuni Police Department, Zuni Tribal Social Services, Gallup Indian Medical Center (GIMC), and Kimberly Hansen from SANE, along with a moving performance by the Knifewing Drum Group & Nilha Dance Group. More than 40 service providers and community members were present, shared information and connected attendees to resources throughout the day. CSVANW was grateful to join this powerful gathering of advocates, service providers, and community leaders — all united in raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and promoting healing and prevention across Indian Country. Together, we continue to stand for safety, respect, and love for our Native women, children, and families. #ZuniPueblo #NewBeginnings #StopDomesticViolence October 2025 - CSVANW was honored to join in celebrating the one-year anniversary of the New Mexico Sexual Assault Helpline, made possible by the incredible leadership of the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs (NMCSAP). Since launching on October 21, 2024, the Helpline has connected with over 1,200 survivors and advocates through calls, texts, and online chats — offering free, confidential, and compassionate support 24/7.This milestone is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together to ensure survivors in New Mexico have a place to turn for healing and support. We celebrate NMCSAP and all the advocates, partners, and supporters who make this life-saving resource possible every day. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out anytime at 1-844-667-2457 or visit nmsahelp.org Facebook: NMSAHELP Instagram: NMSAHELP October 2025 - CSVANW joined statewide partners at the Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Summit hosted at the New Mexico State Bar. As part of the morning panel, CSVANW shared how Tribal coalitions are navigating today’s challenges and opportunities. From funding uncertainties to the importance of trauma-informed, healing-centered workplaces and partnerships. When asked about our top three “wish list” needs for New Mexico, we highlighted: Dedicated funding for Tribal services that sustain culturally resilient programs. Stronger collaboration and partnership across coalitions and service providers. Expanded prevention efforts: investing in community-driven solutions that stop violence before it happens. A special thank you to Representative Pamelya Herndon and the KWH Law Center for Social Justice and Change for hosting this important event and creating space for collective learning and collaboration. We’re grateful to all who came together in community to share knowledge, challenges, and hopes for the future of survivor support in New Mexico. #CSVANW #EndViolence #DVAM #MMIWR #Prevention Be a Part of the Movement. Volunteer Today! When you volunteer with CSVANW, you’re not just lending a hand, you’re helping create spaces that are safe, welcoming, and rooted in care for our Tribal communities. The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) offers meaningful volunteer opportunities for those dedicated to supporting Native survivors and Tribal communities across New Mexico. Whether you’re a student, community member, or advocate, your time and skills can help us advance our work to address domestic violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, teen dating violence, and stalking through a culturally grounded and survivor-centered lens. CSVANW also partners with organizations like the University of New Mexico and the Native American Community Academy to offer service-learning opportunities where students can earn academic credit. Volunteer opportunities may include: Assisting with research, policy development, and evaluation of advocacy efforts in Tribal communities Participating in site visits to member organizations serving Native survivors Supporting events and trainings, creating outreach materials, taking notes, and gathering participant feedback You can also volunteer in our office to support daily operations and help our team behind the scenes. Sign up to stay in the loop about upcoming volunteer opportunities for events, trainings, and more. Ready to make a difference? Join us today. Your presence matters. Sign Up to Be a Volunteer! Follow us on social media to stay updated when CSVANW is in the community.   At CSVANW, every contribution matters. Whether you’re an individual supporter or an organizational partner, your generosity is the heart of what keeps us going. When you give, you’re not just donating, you’re actively helping to break cycles of violence and standing as a cycle breaker. Your support fuels our mission to advocate for Native women and children, creating powerful change and paving the way for healthier, safer communities for generations to come. Give 4 Cycle Breaking Donate Today A big thank you to our amazing October 2025 donors! Your generosity drives CSVANW's efforts to advocate for healthy families and build strong, thriving communities. We couldn’t do this meaningful work without you!   Kinship in Action. Food Support & Community Care. Urgent: As the federal government shutdown continues, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits may be disrupted as early as Saturday, Nov 1, 2025. This page will be updated as information changes. At the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW), the safety and well-being of survivors and our Tribal communities remain our priority. Read More #NAHM2025 #CycleBreakersSince1492 #CSVANW30Years Share This Email Share This Email CSVANW is a 501(c)(3) organization that is funded in part by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Justice.     Become a Member Donate Today Follow us on Social Media Stay Updated: Sign Up for Our Emails Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women | 4600 B Montgomery Blvd NE Ste 202 | Albuquerque, NM 87109 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice