American Indian Student Association
by Jojo Leon

The American Indian Student Association (AISA) was founded in 1969 by students involved in the American Indian Movement (AIM) and the occupation of Alcatraz. Eighty-nine occupants were students from UCLA. Because of AISA’s activist origins, we must ensure that our legacy of student involvement and activism continues.

AISA is an inclusive association, open to all UCLA students. Since American Indian students make up less than one percent of the entire student body, we have established strong relationships with all students in their efforts to receive an education at UCLA. Our community is a place where students come together to work collectively and promote education and interest in their culture. We work as a community to dispel any misconceptions regarding the art, language, and history of American Indian people. Each person represents her or his respective nation and is encouraged to express and share that culture.

Within this small community, you are someone, and we are here to listen. We also encourage students who have lost a part of their culture to come and learn about the community, to gain pride in their heritage. It is the diverse backgrounds that strengthen our group as each student brings a talent or perspective that benefits the entire American Indian community. We invite you to join us. Natives may make up one of the smallest populations but we are one of the strongest communities.