Join Shaya Collective for our Global Leadership Immersion: Shared Histories, Shared Futures—a transformative journey through Alabama and the American South that explores the interconnected histories of Native American and African American communities and the enduring impact of their shared stories on identity, belonging, justice, and leadership.

The history of the United States cannot be fully understood without recognizing the complex relationships between Indigenous peoples and people of African descent. Across generations, these communities experienced displacement, enslavement, resistance, cultural exchange, and resilience. Their shared histories have shaped American society in profound ways, yet many of these stories remain overlooked in traditional narratives.

Throughout this immersive experience, participants will explore how history continues to influence identity, community, and opportunity today. Through historic landmarks, museums, memorials, cultural institutions, and conversations with local leaders, you'll examine how communities have preserved their heritage, confronted injustice, and worked toward healing, reconciliation, and lasting social change.

Participants will visit significant Civil Rights landmarks alongside important Indigenous historical sites, including Moundville Archaeological Park and the Alabama Department of Archives & History. Along the way, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the connections between Native American and African American histories and the ways these communities have contributed to the cultural, political, and social fabric of the United States.

This experience extends beyond historical exploration. Through local cuisine, storytelling, music, community engagement, and guided reflection, participants will build meaningful relationships, broaden their perspectives, and deepen their appreciation for the resilience, creativity, and leadership found within diverse communities.

Inspired by the belief that every person possesses inherent dignity and worth, Shaya Collective creates transformational learning experiences that foster curiosity, humility, empathy, and ethical leadership. Participants leave with a richer understanding of America's shared history, stronger cross-cultural relationships, and practical insights they can apply in their organizations, campuses, communities, and everyday lives.

During this immersion, participants will:

• Explore the interconnected histories of Native American and African American communities throughout the American South.

• Visit nationally significant Civil Rights sites and Indigenous cultural and historical landmarks.

• Engage with local historians, community leaders, and cultural organizations to gain diverse perspectives on history, identity, and belonging.

• Experience the region through its food, music, storytelling, arts, and cultural traditions.

• Reflect on how historical memory, leadership, and community shape more inclusive and equitable futures.

• Develop practical leadership skills rooted in empathy, cultural understanding, ethical decision-making, and global citizenship.

On this trip:  

You will travel through the Deep South with a Shaya Partner to develop a deeper knowledge of Native and African Americans' historical and ongoing battle for racial equality in the America.

Visit significant sites important to the Civil Rights Movement that many people have only read about in books and learn about Native American history at the Moundville Archaeological Park and Alabama Department of Archives & History.

Honor the contributions of courageous African and Native American 

Enjoy authentic food, folklore, and dance performances while learning about the close relationship that existed between Africans and Native Americans and how it was shattered.  

A four-night stay; four breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners; Shaya Partners guiding services; admission to all program activities; a private, luxurious motor coach with air conditioning and plush seating; and airport transfers for visitors arriving and departing at the suggested times are included in this tour.