Each November, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area is proud to join communities across the country in celebrating Native American Heritage Month—a time to honor the histories, traditions, and cultural contributions of Native and Indigenous peoples.
This year, we’re honored to spotlight one of our BGCAA team members, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Clarissa Davila, a descendant of the Lipan Apache Tribe. She shares personal reflections on staying connected to her heritage and how her identity shapes the work she does for our Club kids every day.
When asked how Clarissa remains connected to the Tribe, she shared that storytelling is at the heart of her cultural identity. “We know who we are because of what has been told to us,” she explained. This means reaching out to other Tribe members, learning family history, and finding ways to help preserve and uplift her community.
As a descendant of the Lipan Apache Tribe, Clarissa makes it a priority to continue learning, offering support, and using her strengths to advocate for the community. This includes helping with communications for Tribe events or serving on the Tribe’s Education Committee. “Anywhere I can contribute and help our heritage thrive,” she said.
“[Native American Heritage Month] is a reminder of how important it is to preserve our stories and pass them forward.”
Clarissa’s heritage also shapes the way she shows up for BGCAA youth. Grounded in the values of storytelling and advocacy, she is intentional about ensuring every young person feels seen and heard.
“I champion their stories wherever I go,” she said. Whether it be in Washington D.C., on Capitol Hill, or right here at the Texas State Capitol and Austin City Hall. “Sometimes that advocacy happens on a big stage or in the small moments, like taking the time to pronounce a child’s name correctly or asking thoughtful questions about their background.”
“Every moment matters, and every story is worth honoring.”
One message Clarissa hopes more people understand is that many Native and Indigenous communities are still on a journey of rediscovery and reclamation. History, traditions, and languages were interrupted, and today, many descendants are working to learn, reconnect, and keep their culture alive.
“It’s an ongoing journey of preservation, healing, and pride.” – Clarissa Davila
