The beautiful National Indian Youth Police Academy Patch was created by Captain Vernon Alvarez of the Isleta Tribal Police Department.
The Eagle
The eagle is a symbol of power and prestige in many
nations of the world. Among the northwest coast of America and Canada the eagle
represents peace, strength, and power to the native peoples.
The Native American Medicine Wheel
The Medicine Wheel represents the four directions and the four seasons. It is the wheel of life, which is forever evolving. It is the pathway to peace and harmony. The circle is never-ending, life without end. The symbol of the Medicine Wheel represents many things in the natural world that came in fours. For example, we are told that in the Medicine Wheel, there are four sacred wind directions. The Medicine Wheel also represents the four elements: air, fire, earth, and water. There are animals that represent each
direction, as well as the four seasons. Also represented are the four stages of life: childhood, youth, adulthood, and Elderhood. For each tribe, there are
differences as well as similarities. It is all positive.
The Peace Pipe
The peace pipe signifies our commitment to the creation of peace in all that we do in life. The smoke from the pipe represents our spirit, which always rises upward to the Creator for spiritual strength and guidance.
The Eagle Feathers
The eagle feathers represent honor and bravery. It also connects the user directly with the Creator.
The Two Stars
Located across the top of the patch from each other, they represent the BALANCE needed in our lives. Each star point represents:
- Physical balance
- Mental balance
- Emotional balance
- Social balance
- Spiritual balance
For questions about NIYPA contact
Dave Rogers (phone: 888-370-1752.)