Native Roots: Reconnecting Indigenous Youth with Ocean Heritage

A Journey of Indigenous Education and Cultural Revival

Marc Chavez has spent decades working to bridge the gap between traditional education and the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities. As a Nahua descendant from Michoacan’s Nahua Coast in Mexico, he understands firsthand the disconnect that many Indigenous youth face within mainstream educational systems. His journey began with a deep sense that school wasn’t the right fit for him as a teenager. The curriculum didn’t reflect his identity or the stories of his people, and this lack of representation fueled his desire to create something different.

Chavez’s vision led to the creation of Native Like Water, an organization that started in 2000 with the Young Native Scholars program. This initiative aimed to provide academic, wellness, and cultural programs tailored to Native American, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian youth. Over time, it evolved into InterTribal Youth, which connected young people from diverse nations through residential academic enrichment programs that included traditional ecological knowledge, science, health, and culture.

At the heart of Native Like Water is a sacred relationship with water, a concept that Chavez describes as both personal and communal. “Looking inward to our own body of water, we aim to clarify who we really are,” he says. “Looking at one another, we see a reflection of greatness and upliftment.” The organization focuses on sustainable solutions for conservation, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with natural resources and ancestral practices.

Reconnecting with Roots

Growing up in Los Angeles, Chavez experienced the challenges of urban life, including the influence of drugs, gang culture, and alcoholism. He narrowly escaped these dangers and eventually found a second chance through education and community support. His journey took a significant turn when he decided to live part-time in his maternal homeland of Mexico, where he explored his coastal roots and deepened his connection to the Pacific Ocean.

This experience reinforced his belief in the power of cultural practice. For Chavez, surfing became more than just a sport—it was a metaphor for life, a way to find direction and strength. “Cultural practice and ancient ways give great direction and can answer the toughest questions,” he explains. Through surfing, he discovered a path that saved his life and guided him toward his mission of reviving Indigenous traditions.

Indigenous Lens and Cultural Conservation

Chavez’s work emphasizes an Indigenous lens that focuses on cultural conservation and natural habitats. He believes that understanding the contributions of ancestors is essential for shaping a sustainable future. “It’s like putting on a whole new pair of glasses where we can see things we were not taught in school,” he says. Topics such as celestial navigation, voyaging, and Indigenous science are central to his approach.

He also highlights the long history of Indigenous presence along the California coast, noting that ancient villages have existed there for over 20,000 years. “The mammoths may be gone, but the people are still here,” he says. By connecting with this legacy, Chavez hopes to inspire a deeper understanding of how Indigenous communities have lived in harmony with nature for millennia.

From College to Global Impact

Chavez’s background in communication and “third world” studies at UC San Diego and community college laid the foundation for his work. His studies exposed him to global cultures, sparking a passion for learning about the interconnectedness of human experiences. Traveling through Central America and leading cultural tours further deepened his understanding of Indigenous resilience and shared histories.

These experiences informed the programming at Native Like Water, which seeks to empower Indigenous youth by reconnecting them with their heritage. “The communities I work with are not filling chairs at universities, but going on to live real lives and becoming good community citizens,” he explains. The goal is to provide them with the tools to understand their place in the world and to embrace their cultural identities.

Surfing as a Path to Healing

One of the most unique aspects of Native Like Water is its focus on ocean and surf culture. Events like the “UNITY-Indigenous Coastal Surf Culture” gathering at La Jolla Shores bring participants together on giant inflatable paddleboards for group surfing, team building, and mental health support. These events draw on the rich traditions of Indigenous ocean cultures, including the Kumeyaay, Luiseno, Diegueño, Acjachemen, Tongva, Chumash, Cahuilla, and Yuman peoples.

Chavez emphasizes the importance of re-introducing Indigenous people to their coastal heritage. “Loss of habitat is the largest cause of extinction,” he says. By engaging with the ocean and learning about its historical significance, participants gain a deeper appreciation for their cultural roots and the natural world around them.

A Life Rooted in the Ocean

For Chavez, the ocean is more than just a place to surf—it’s a source of inspiration and connection. He finds peace in places like La Jolla, where the biodiversity and ancient village sites offer a glimpse into the past. He also cherishes the quiet beauty of the Nahua Coast in Mexico, which he describes as resembling La Jolla without the crowds and high costs.

When asked about the best advice he’s ever received, Chavez shares Bruce Lee’s words: “Be water, my friend.” This philosophy reflects his approach to life and work—adapting, flowing, and embracing change.

A Personal Touch

Despite his public role, Chavez remains grounded in his personal interests. He enjoys spending time alone on the water, often waking before sunrise to watch the stars. He also has a surprising affinity for turtles, which he says are some of his favorite companions.

For a perfect San Diego weekend, Chavez would start with a morning surf session at Black’s Beach, followed by a relaxed afternoon at Wind and Sea with a homemade salad and snacks. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to connect with the ocean and the community he serves.

Through his work, Chavez continues to build bridges between Indigenous traditions and modern education, ensuring that the voices and stories of his people are heard and valued.