Approved Advocacy Statement for Indigenous People’s Rights and Concerns

The American Counseling Association (ACA) adopted the following advocacy statement: · The American Counseling Association (ACA) stands in alliance with indigenous communities and recognizes the need for counselors to provide counseling services and community interventions that are culturally sensitive, trauma informed, and evidence-based practices. ACA also supports the United Nations’ Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which recognizes and honors the dignity, well-being, and self-determination of indigenous people. Furthermore, ACA recognizes the importance of decolonizing the counseling profession and promoting culturally specific/relevant practices in the counseling field that address the needs and concerns of indigenous populations.