'To preserve history and protect our future’: Native American Heritage Month at Xcel Energy
Our Tribal Wind employee group shares what this month means to them
Xcel Energy operates in many regions across the United States, which includes the ancestral lands of peoples who have inhabited them for thousands of years. During the month of November, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month and recognize the history, culture and contributions of Native American communities in the areas we serve and beyond.
At Xcel Energy, the Tribal Wind business resource group (BRG) plays a significant role in developing the Native American workforce and spreading cultural awareness. Through educational events and employee volunteer opportunities, Tribal Wind helps employees strengthen their understanding of indigenous history and the challenges the community faces today.
In 2022, Tribal Wind was named to the Diversity Impact Awards’ “Top 25 ERG” list for its efforts in helping Xcel Energy create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive organization that fosters employee belonging.
“The Tribal Wind BRG was started as a call for community,” Project Manager and Tribal Wind Co-Chair Michelle Fix-Westall says, “From the start, Tribal Wind has supported ongoing efforts to recognize and respect the rights and cultures of Native American communities.”
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Xcel Energy employees and Tribal Wind BRG members share what this month means to them.
From left to right: Rebecca Yakesh, Elsa Martinez, Adam Annis and Gail Gowen.
Rebecca Yakesh, senior business continuity consultant
What does Native American Heritage Month mean to you?
I’m a part of the Chippewa Indian Tribe out of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Native American Heritage Month is a great time to reflect on my roots and how far the community has come. It also serves as a reminder to continue sharing Native American history.
How has the Tribal Wind BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
Tribal Wind gave me the opportunity to meet other members, learn from them, and contribute to our shared goals. We collaborate on BRG-related topics and also support each other personally and professionally.
What was one of the most memorable moments or experiences that you’ve had while being a member of Tribal Wind?
I remember when Tribal Wind started promoting mental health awareness in the workplace. Members shared “safe harbor” moments before meetings to allow concerns or questions to be raised without judgement. This showed me that we’re more than just a BRG – we're an awesome group of employees who genuinely care about each other’s best interests.
Elsa Martinez, material supply strategist for TX, NM and CO
What does Native American Heritage Month mean to you?
My family history includes the Native American tribe Chichimecas, who descended from indigenous peoples of Mexico. Native American Heritage Month encourages me to learn more about my heritage and culture, which is one of the reasons why I joined Tribal Wind.
How has the Tribal Wind BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
Native people are constantly fighting for their existence and representation in society. Tribal Wind has created a supportive environment that helps Indigenous communities and individuals have a voice at Xcel Energy.
What was one of the most memorable moments or experiences that you’ve had while being a member of Tribal Wind?
One of the most memorable experiences I had with Tribal Wind was when I took a trip to Orlando, FL to watch us be named “Top 25 ERG” at the Global ERG Network Conference!
Adam Annis, spent nuclear fuel projects manager
What does Native American Heritage Month mean to you?
Native American Heritage Month is an opportunity to acknowledge the fact that people have lived on this land long before 1492, and that their ancestors continue to live here. It’s also a time to appreciate the deep spiritual relationship between humans and the natural world, which is a connection Native Americans have always held sacred.
How has the Tribal Wind BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
Becoming a Tribal Wind member has taught me to become a better listener, be humble, seek to understand different points of view, and to value and practice empathy. Tribal Wind members have shown me how kindness and inclusion improve the employee experience, which positively impacts productivity and wellbeing.
What was one of the most memorable moments or experiences that you’ve had while being a member of Tribal Wind?
I have great memories from the volunteer events Tribal Wind has done in collaboration with the Division of Indian Work in Minneapolis. The opportunity to work with a group of people who I wouldn’t otherwise interact with in my day-to-day is a huge benefit of joining a BRG. I’ve had wonderful experiences and built lasting relationships working with Tribal Wind members, our Social Investment partners, and members from other Xcel Energy BRGs.
Gail Gowen, transmission compliance coordinator
What does Native American Heritage Month mean to you?
I'm Navajo on my mother's side and Irish on my father's. For me, Native American Heritage Month is about resiliency and a reminder to preserve history and protect our future.
How has the Tribal Wind BRG contributed to a more inclusive and supportive environment at Xcel Energy?
I joined Tribal Wind to meet other Native Americans at work. Since then, I've connected with Xcel Energy employees from all sorts of backgrounds, which helped me appreciate diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
What was one of the most memorable moments or experiences that you’ve had while being a member of Tribal Wind?
I love the events that Tribal Wind puts on to celebrate Native American Heritage Month every November! It’s one of the most important moments of the year to me.