2nd Annual Indigenous Women's Conference

This annual conference is part of an ongoing effort to create inter-tribal relationships and community among Indigenous women in S.C. Women will be invited from all of the recognized tribes in S.C., as well as those who have an Indigenous heritage but are not members of a Native American tribe in S.C. (e.g., Native Hawaiian, Native Carib, Native American tribes from other states). The Indigenous groups in S.C. are very scattered, and this annual conference hopes to provide opportunities for women to bond with new people over our common cultural ties.

This goal of using our common heritages as a bridge is what motivates the inclusion of both a meal and ceremony. Meals are inherently social and sharing meals is a very important aspect of Native American culture. Additionally, there are few opportunities to experience cultural events outside of tribe-specific activities, so creating more opportunities to participate in ceremony has consistently been a valuable part of the S.C. Indian Affairs Commission calendar. The women invited to speak for the last segment of the conference are both Native American, and both are going to speak regarding their inspiring careers and experiences. One is an international diplomat with the U.S. State Department, and the other is the first female Najavo pilot.