The voices of Native youth were heard loud and clear this past year when the National UNITY Council passed the National Suicide Prevention Initiative resolution, later renamed the “I Will Live” Initiative. In an effort to further bring attention to the suicide epidemic among Native youth in Indian Country, UNITY Inc is sponsoring a Social Media Contest titled “I Will Live” with the winner receiving a Registration Scholarship to the 2016 National UNITY Conference. Simply post and share photos of life, family, friends, hobbies – anything you care about – to show your celebration of life. Post on any of UNITY’s social media pages (Facebook, Instagram or Twitter) and include the hashtag #IwillLive.

UNITY Inc is also promoting the 2nd Annual “Moment Of Silence” on September 10, 2015. On this day, UNITY encourages youth councils and others to plan a Moment of Silence remembering those who have passed on and offering prayers for those who suffer from depression or are considered high risk. In addition, UNITY has created a “I Will Live” page on its website, which includes resources for suicide prevention and events bringing awareness to events held during Suicide Prevention Week, September 7-13, 2015. CLICK HERE to view the UNITY “I WILL LIVE” page.

To learn more about warning signs please go to http://www.suicidology.org/resources/warning-signs. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or you can visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.