NSU Symposium to feature local and national Indigenous women leaders

(Tahlequah, Oklahoma) - Northeastern State University will host the 47th annual Symposium on the American Indian April 8-13 on the Tahlequah campus. The theme, Celebrating Indigenous Women, will honor both modern and legendary matriarchs, focusing on women who have contributed to the success and growth of our Indigenous communities and families.

Opening Ceremony will be on Wednesday, April 10 at 9:30 a.m., featuring the crowning of Miss Native American NSU, as well as a panel discussion on Indigenous Centered Solutions through Community Organizing with the Matriarch, a nonprofit based in Oklahoma.

Thursday, April 11 kicks off with a keynote presentation by Erin Griffin (Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate), director of Dakota Studies at Sisseton Wahpeton College who will speak about Native language revitalization efforts among the Dakota people.

Keynotes and current sessions conclude on Friday, April 12 with a presentation by Dr. Mary Jo Tippeconnic Fox (Comanche/Cherokee), research professor at the University of Arizona at 10 a.m. The final keynote presentation will take place at 6 p.m. featuring Tara Houska, J.D. (Couchiching First Nation), national campaigns director for Honor the Earth.

The NSU Powwow will conclude the 47th Annual Symposium on April 13. All events are free and open to the public, and most events are held in the University Center. For more information, visit the Center for Tribal Studies website at Center for Tribal Studies Events or call 918-444-4350.

About the Symposium

The Symposium on the American Indian is a community event welcoming individuals from all demographics including K-12 and college students, educators, professionals and community members. There is no registration fee and events are open to the public.

Funding has been provided by the Oklahoma Arts Council, Oklahoma Humanities Council and sponsors, including the Chickasaw Nation, Osage Foundation, Cherokee Casino Tahlequah and River Spirit Casino.