Table 2.

Apsáalooke Cultural Strengths and Values

Cultural Strengths and Values	Description
Clan System (Ashamaliaxxia)	The Apsáalooke matrilineal clan system is based on close kinship and shows by knowing your clan relatives and having compassion, empathy, and respect for them. Program mentors will select members of their program groups based on the clan system.
Advice (Báa nnilah)	This is advice that we receive from others, particularly from elders, which is often shared through story and gives us instructions for life. If one listens and applies this advice, it will keep us on the right path and will help us avoid making mistakes.
Language (Biiluukeiilia)	Apsáalooke deliik is the Apsáalooke lanugage. It is used in the program name and in appropriate ways in the program meetings.
Optimism (Baahpe xaxxua ituuk)	The belief that everyday is a good day and that life is more valuable than anything else, entails having a positive approach to life.
Good to See You (Itchick dii awa kuum)	When individuals see each other, it is never a quick ‘hi’ and ‘goodbye.’ This reflects the importance of spending quality time with others, of real listening and exchange, and understanding that others are special and what they share is important. It makes both people feel good.
Strong Heart (Daasachchuchik)	Having a strong heart gives us the desire and willingness to persevere in a positive way despite obstacles. Some use the word resilience to describe this.