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The Seeds of Tradition

Seeds of Tradition: a project of ETR

The Seeds of Tradition (Seeds) project is powered by Tribal youth and community collaboration. The project empowers young people and Tribal community members to preserve cultural heritage, protect sacred lands, promote health equity, and lead commercial tobacco prevention efforts in Sacramento and Riverside counties. Seeds shares information and resources with Tribal communities about the harms of commercial tobacco use, while honoring the sacred role of traditional tobacco within Indigenous cultures. The project aims to create a ripple effect by inspiring generations to lead with purpose and strengthen both cultural and environmental stewardship.

Our Priorities

  • Community Engagement: Building partnerships and fostering collaboration within Tribal communities and non-Tribal agencies/partners.
  • Leadership Development: Equipping Tribal youth with advocacy skills and opportunities to lead.
  • Advocacy Rooted in Tradition: Honoring Indigenous values and the sacred role of traditional tobacco, while educating about the harms of commercial tobacco use.
  • Inspiring Generations: Motivating youth to lead with purpose and strengthen both cultural and environmental stewardship.

Our Approach

  • Educating about the health and environmental harms of commercial tobacco.
  • Highlighting the importance of traditional tobacco in Indigenous cultures.
  • Tribal outreach and coalition building.
  • Enabling Tribal youth voices and leadership.
  • Speaking with decision makers and developing community partnerships.

Why It Matters

American Indian and Alaska Native adults in California experience the highest rates of cigarette smoking among all racial and ethnic groups, and Native youth are disproportionately affected by commercial tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke. Although California’s overall youth vaping rates are lower than the national average, Native youth continue to face elevated risks. Seeds of Tradition is committed to closing these gaps by honoring cultural traditions, stewarding science, and empowering Tribal youth as leaders for change.

Get Involved

Seeds of Tradition Coalition

The Seeds of Tradition Coalition is a broad, community-driven alliance that brings together Tribal members, youth, and diverse community partners in Sacramento and Riverside counties. This coalition welcomes anyone passionate about advancing health equity, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting commercial tobacco prevention efforts in California’s Tribal communities. By joining, members collaborate on advocacy and education to advance policy change to create healthier environments for Tribal people.

Seeds to Trees

As a key component of the Seeds of Tradition Coalition, Seeds to Trees is dedicated to Tribal youth leadership. This youth-led group empowers young people to take action, develop advocacy skills, and inspire change within their communities. Members gain opportunities for leadership, service, and meaningful impact, working alongside project staff, mentors, and community partners. Seeds to Trees guides the Seeds project, positioning Tribal youth as the driving force behind culturally grounded commercial tobacco prevention, policy, and advocacy efforts.

Get Connected

Whether you’re a Tribal youth, Tribal community member, or community partner, there’s a place for you in Seeds of Tradition. Join us to help build a healthier, more resilient future for California’s Tribal communities.

Scan our QR code to get connected!

Seeds of Tradition is a project of ETR, funded under contract #24-10141 by the California Department of Public Health.

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