Since the early 1900s, members of the eight (8) federally recognized tribal nations in Utah and neighboring states risk leaving the familiar boundaries of their traditional homelands and journey to the metropolitan area of Salt Lake City, Utah. They are inspired by ambiguous yet compelling promises for improved economic stability and living conditions, employment opportunities, access to education and training, and the provision of impactful health and wellness services, such that the US Office of Minority Health estimates that almost 60% of all American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/AN) now reside in urban area across the United States (In Utah, this equates to approximately 40,000 AI/AN residents now living off their reservations).   

For almost fifty (50) years, the staff and leadership of the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake (UICSL) have responded and evolved as a dependent, independent, and now visibly interdependent community resource to ensure AI/ANs have access to state and federal systems through navigation, resource referrals, education and training, and economic assistance. More recently, UICSL directly provides medical, behavioral, and community health services. With approximately 70% of our staff enrolled as members of the tribal nations we serve; we embody our stewardship to preserve cultural knowledge and traditional practices in our offerings. We recognize social and economic equity within our urban AI/AN community as a catalyst to the fulfillment of our mission “to serve The People by honoring Native cultures, strengthening health and wellness programs, and cultivating community.”   

We actively engage with staff, volunteers, and partners in the community to ensure their work aligns with the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The organization promotes a culture of respect, acceptance, and understanding, and fosters an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds can contribute and thrive.