Expressing the need for representation through social media and larger organizations, particularly in the context of my childhood, has been a personal journey. While I previously shared my experiences with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the education system in my hometown, I now want to shed light on the connection between Nike, my childhood, and its evolving impact on my life.
Growing up in Coos Bay, Oregon, a quaint coastal town known for loggers and fishermen, I later discovered its significance as the starting point of Mr. Steve Prefontaine’s athletic career. It wasn’t until high school that I grasped the special connection my town had with Nike because of him.
My initial encounter with Nike was through my tribe at a prevention event. I vividly recall receiving a pair of chunky white Nikes with blue stitching. These shoes, part of a Native American-specific initiative called N7, were distributed to tribal youth, including myself. Though I didn’t fully comprehend the implications at the time, I knew these shoes meant I could participate in cheer tryouts the following week.
What is N7?
N7 symbolizes seven generations and was established to unite the Native community through sports, fostering a support system, and providing grants to tribal nations across North America.
Two Reasons N7 Was Significant to Me as a Child:
- As an Indigenous child in a low-income household, a gifted pair of running shoes alleviated financial pressure. This single pair of shoes opened doors to various sports, allowing me to explore new activities without burdening my mom with additional expenses.
- Representation of culture in a brand is uncommon for Native Americans. N7 served as my first connection to myself beyond my family. In our small Native community, realizing there were like-minded individuals across the country made me feel seen and heard. Nike giving me a pair of shoes represented more than footwear; it symbolized acknowledgment.
Two Ways to Better Represent Native Communities:
- N7’s social media presence is lacking. While the website features quality content, the disjointed social media strategy needs improvement. Segments like N7 and Move-To-Zero, advertised on separate accounts, lack the aesthetic appeal of the main Nike page. This raises questions about Nike’s authenticity in supporting DEI—is it genuine or just for social acceptance?
- N7 products, designed by and for Natives, often carry unaffordable price tags. Despite the cultural significance and thoughtful design rooted in ancestral stories, the high prices create a barrier for many Native individuals. This contradicts the essence of representation and self-expression.
Reflecting on why N7 was vital in my childhood and suggesting ways to enhance representation for Native communities, I emphasize the transformative impact even minor representation can have on youth. In a media landscape with historically low Indigenous representation, initiatives like N7 offer an alternative to stereotypes, fostering a positive self-image for our community.
Photo by Kyle Austin on Unsplash.