SEATTLE, Washington — Today, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) opened its 82nd Annual Convention & Marketplace in Seattle, Washington. The Convention will run through Friday, November 21. As the nation’s largest and longest-running convening dedicated to Tribal sovereignty and self-determination, the NCAI Annual Convention brings together Tribal leaders, youth, elders, advocates, and partners from across Indian Country to set a unified policy agenda, conduct organizational business, and celebrate Native innovation and culture.

“Each year, NCAI’s Annual Convention serves as Indian Country’s compass – we deliberate, decide, and deliver on priorities that strengthen Tribal Nations,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “Seattle’s deep ties to Native peoples and its role as a national hub for innovation make it an ideal host city for our 82nd convention.”

“From plenary sessions and federal briefings and consultation to committee work and the resolutions process, this gathering is where collaboration becomes action,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “This week, we’ll navigate hard, honest conversations about the current climate of our Tribal Nations and amplify the important work to protect our most vulnerable and our sovereignty. Our charge is clear: turn dialogue into action that safeguards children, honors elders, and strengthens every Tribal Nation.”

Throughout the week, attendees will participate in General Assembly sessions featuring national addresses from Tribal leadership and federal partners, engage in policy meetings that inform NCAI’s advocacy, and consider and vote on resolutions that guide the organization’s positions on issues impacting Tribal Nations. The Marketplace will showcase Native businesses, artists, nonprofits, and government and corporate partners. Programming will uplift intergenerational leadership through youth and elder engagement and offer opportunities to celebrate the cultures and traditions of Tribal Nations.

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About the National Congress of American Indians:

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of Tribal governments and communities, promoting strong Tribal-federal government-to-government policies and a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights.