IJA serves and empowers Indigenous journalists through programs and actions designed to enrich journalism and promote Indigenous cultures.

IJA recognizes Native Americans as distinct peoples based on tradition and culture. In this spirit, IJA educates and unifies its membership through journalism programs that promote diversity and defends challenges to free press, speech and expression. IJA is committed to increasing the representation of Indigenous journalists in mainstream media. IJA encourages both mainstream and tribal media to attain the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and responsibility.