Wild About Wellbeing: Why We’re Using Animals, Humor, and Heart to Talk About Sexual Health

Our intent

We want sexual health conversations to feel local, respectful, and judgment-free. Many of us feel awkward asking about consent, condoms, testing, or vaccines. This campaign—Wild About Wellbeing—uses familiar animals, gentle humor, and clear language so we can talk openly and get care when we need it.

This isn’t about fear or shame. It’s about belonging, privacy, and practical steps that fit life in Kotzebue and surrounding villages.

The values behind the work

• Community first. We care for the whole herd—from babies to Elders.

• Respect and consent. A big YES or it’s a no, and we can pause anytime.

• Plain language. No jargon. Short sentences. Clear steps.

• Privacy. Your information stays private. Ask us how your data is used.

• Co-creation. Designed with community input.

Why animals?

Animals already teach what we practice: protection, planning, traveling together, and seasonal change. Each animal anchors one message:

• Raven – “Ask. Echo. Respect.”
  Consent is a conversation, not a guess. Try: “Are you into this?” “Condoms okay?” “We can stop anytime.”

• Musk Ox – “Form the circle.”
  Boundaries protect everyone. “Not without a condom.” “Let’s slow down.”

• Seal – “Keep your seal strong.”
  Barriers keep us safer. Condoms + water-based lube; check the expiry; carry a spare.

• Ptarmigan – “New season, new check-in.”
  When life changes—partners, plans, or seasons—talk and test.

• Beluga – “Connection and healing.”
  Healing starts when you talk. Find your pod—you don’t have to carry it alone.

• Caribou – “Herd strong.”
  We look out for our herd—get vaccinated and test together.

• Polar Bear – “Big boundaries. Big respect.”
  Real strength honors a big YES and respects a no. Make a ride/safety plan before you go.

• Salmon – “On a regular run.”
  Routine testing keeps us moving—mark the calendar.

• Snowy Owl – “See clearly.”
  See clearly. Party safer and get sober consent.

Wild About Wellbeing is about relationships, respect, and practical steps that fit our lives here. Whether you’re coming for a test, picking up supplies, or asking a question—you’re welcome.

This project was completed in partnership with Maniilaq Association and Turtle Island Media Group. Funding was from the Minority HIV/AIDS fund via the Indian Health Service HIV, HCV and STI Branch.