NCAI is proud to announce the official logo for NCAI’s 82nd Annual Convention and Marketplace, which will be happening on 

This year’s logo was created by Nizhonia Toledo, a 21-year-old artist and enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Her work is grounded in community, tradition, and the belief that art is a living expression of culture.

Learn more about Nizhonia and her inspiration behind the artwork below.

My name is Nizhonia Toledo. I am a 21-year-old artist and a proud enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. From a young age, art has been more than a hobby for me, it has been a powerful outlet and a constant companion throughout my life.

My work is deeply rooted in my culture, community, and family. These connections are not only my inspiration, they are the heart of everything I create. Through my art, I honor the traditions and stories that have shaped me while carving space for contemporary Indigenous expression. I create not just for myself, but for those who came before me and those who will follow.

Art is my way of keeping our culture alive, of telling truths that words sometimes cannot, and of offering healing and hope. It’s my purpose, my passion, and my offering to the world.

The meaning behind the logo I created for the NCAI 82nd Annual Convention and Marketplace is, we are sovereign. We are resilient. We are culture in motion.

At its heart stand four Indigenous figures, adorned in traditional regalia, embodying the sacred diversity and collective strength of our peoples. They represent past, present, and future generations. Our ancestors who paved the way, our leaders who carry the fire today, and our youth who will rise to continue the legacy. Together, they form a circle of protection, reminding us that sovereignty is not given, it is inherent, lived, and defended.

Behind them rises Mount Rainier, not just as a geographical landmark, but as a spiritual and cultural backbone. It is the watchful guardian, rooted in ancient memory, standing as a symbol of the land we belong to, not land we own, but land we are in relationship with. The evergreen trees surrounding it echo our commitment to preserve, protect, the natural world, as our ancestors have always done.

The waters below represent life, renewal, and ceremony. From these waters comes the salmon, carried proudly by one of the figures, a revered first food and relative, vital to our sustenance, traditions, and ecological balance. The salmon tells a story of migration, return, and sacrifice, a reflection of our people's journey and resilience.

Held in another hand are huckleberries, another first food, symbolizing connection to land and seasonal gathering. These foods are more than nourishment, they are cultural memory, living traditions, and reminders that every act of harvesting is an act of prayer.

The regalia, beadwork, basketry, and adornments worn by each figure are expressions of culture, not frozen in time, but alive, evolving, and passed on through generations. They reflect pride in identity, language, and history. Each pattern woven with purpose, each bead a heartbeat of tradition.
Encircled in red and black, this emblem does not just frame a community, it protects it. Red for the blood we come from, black for the land we come from. The circle is sacred. It symbolizes unity among all Tribal Nations, and it affirms that despite colonization, and forced displacement, we are still here. Still rising. Still sovereign.

Join the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) in Seattle, Washington, for its 82nd Annual Convention & Marketplace from November 16 - 21, 2025 at the Seattle Convention Center.

Now more than ever is an essential moment for Indian Country to unite, amplify voices, and shape a powerful collective future. Tribal leaders, NCAI members, Native youth, and allies from across Indian Country will gather to tackle critical issues, strategize for the future, and strengthen nation-to-nation relationships.

Additionally, attendees will be able to browse the NCAI Marketplace, which features a variety of booths ranging from Native artists to federal job recruiters and much more. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the ongoing mission of NCAI. 

Stay tuned for more information, including registration opening soon!

Meet Nizhonia Toledo, the Native Youth Artist Who Designed NCAI's 82nd Annual Convention & Marketplace Logo

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) extends our heartfelt condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the four medical personnel who tragically lost their lives in Tuesday’s plane crash near the Chinle Airport on the Navajo Nation.

“The lives lost in this tragedy represent the very best of humanity: individuals who chose to dedicate their careers to helping others, especially in some of the most remote and underserved areas of our country,” said NCAI Director Larry Wright, Jr. “Indian Country mourns with the Navajo Nation and all who grieve this profound loss. We honor these fallen heroes and reaffirm our collective commitment to supporting the important work of medical professionals in tribal communities.”

Medical professionals are vital in addressing the long-standing health disparities across Indian Country. Their work is essential in ensuring access to quality, culturally competent care for Native communities.

We honor the memory of those who perished and offer prayers for healing, strength, and peace to their families and all those affected by this heartbreaking event.

NCAI Mourns the Fatal Medical Transport Plane Crash on the Navajo Nation

— The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) expresses strong support for the 

Native Children’s Commission Implementation Act of 2025

, a draft bill released by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The comprehensive draft bill aims to enhance the well-being and future opportunities of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian youth and families, marking significant legislative action and funding to improve their lives.

Rooted in the recommendations provided by 

The Way Forward Report of the Alyce Spotted Bear & Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Children

 (the Commission), the draft legislation addresses critical areas such as child welfare, justice systems, physical and behavioral health, housing stability, education, culturally relevant child care, and improved research and data collection. The Commission conducted 61 regional public hearings, virtual hearings, and site visits to learn from Native communities and witness programs serving Native children and youth and transmitted 29 recommendations to Congress that addressed the needs of Native youth and families from a cultural, traditional, and holistic perspective. Senator Murkowski has shown that she listened to the Commission, as demonstrated by the incorporation of their recommendations into this draft legislation.

“NCAI commends Chairman Murkowski’s leadership and commitment to Native communities through this significant legislative proposal,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “Efforts to make the Tiwahe Demonstration Project permanent, expand self-determination and self-governance in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s nutrition programs, increase resources for child welfare programs, and expand grants in Public Law 102-477 plans represents an essential step forward to ensure that the voices and needs of Native children and families are not only recognized and valued, but meaningfully supported through culturally responsive policies and practices.”

NCAI appreciates Chairman Murkowski’s dedication to continued consultation and collaboration with Tribal Nations, advocates, and organizations serving Native communities. NCAI will actively participate in the ongoing legislative process to ensure meaningful outcomes for Native youth and families.

NCAI encourages tribal stakeholders to provide feedback via email on the draft language by 

. To assist tribal stakeholders in preparing their feedback, NCAI is planning a webinar in partnership with its sister organizations: Tribal Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium, Alaska Federation of Natives, National Indian Child Welfare Association, National Indian Health Board, National Indian American Housing Council, and National Indian Education Association, as well as Anita Fineday, Commissioner on the Commission on Native Children, on 

August 20, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. ET, 2:00 p.m. CT, 1:00 p.m. MT, 12:00 p.m. PT, 11:00 a.m. AK, and 10:00 a.m. HT.

If you have any questions or comments for NCAI, please email 

NCAI Strongly Supports Chairman Murkowski’s Proposed Bill Supporting Native Children and Families

National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) welcomes the 

Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Department of the Interior (DOI) appropriations bill

 passed by the House Appropriations Committee this week. The bill represents significant levels of funding for Tribal Nations that will directly and positively impact the delivery of essential tribal services, including health services, social services, probate, education, and historic support for public safety and justice programs.

NCAI commends the efforts of Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK), Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), and their colleagues in the House for ensuring tribal priorities and programs are supported in this spending bill. As the Senate continues its parallel appropriations process, NCAI calls on the Senate to conform its appropriations levels to those of the House.

“This legislation is meaningful progress in honoring the federal government’s obligations to Tribal Nations,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “The bottom line is that the House Appropriations Committee, under Chairman Cole’s and Ranking Member DeLauro’s leadership, kept their commitment to Indian Country and presented a budget that supports critical programs and reflects the priorities of tribal governments.”

This appropriations bill is a step in the correct direction, though NCAI acknowledges that even with these impactful levels of funding, Indian Country continues to be widely underfunded. NCAI looks forward to hosting the 

 next month to discuss FY 2026 funding levels and will begin the formulation of its FY 2028 budget request to the Department of Interior. NCAI also looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Congress when they return from recess to ensure that this bill is enacted quickly. Tribal Nations are negatively impacted by the continuing resolution process, and quick passage of a robust appropriations bill will ensure that Tribal Nations can continue to deliver essential services to their communities without interruption.

NCAI on the Passage of the DOI Appropriations Bill

 — As the oldest and largest representative organization of Tribal Nations, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) upholds the inherent sovereignty of tribal governments and the rights of their citizens and peoples to preserve and use their languages. NCAI is concerned by the efforts of various federal agencies to implement 

Executive Order (EO) 14224: Designating English as the Official Language of the United States

On Monday, July 14, the Department of Justice released guidance on implementing EO 14224. EO 14224 revoked 

, which required federal agencies to provide meaningful access to services for individuals with limited English proficiency. With the rollback of these protections, tribal leaders have expressed concerns that their citizens who primarily speak Native languages are at greater risk of exclusion, harm, and discrimination.

“For generations, the United States’ government policies erased indigenous languages through assimilationist policies. Our recent ancestors were punished for speaking their indigenous languages — the first languages spoken in America. As their descendants, it’s our obligation to rebuild and revitalize what was taken from us. With our languages we teach our children, conduct our ceremonies, interpret the world around us, and govern our Tribal Nations within the family of United States governments,” said Mark Macarro, NCAI President. “We understand the importance of language as our tribal identity, and we won’t be diminished again for freely speaking our own languages. This is an issue of tribal sovereignty — and it’s our birthright.”

During his first administration, President Trump signed into law the 

Esther Martinez Native American Languages Programs Reauthorization Act (P.L. 116-101)

, which provided critical resources to support language revitalization efforts throughout the country. EO 14224 raises concerns that the current administration is moving away from this mission, undermining efforts to revitalize Native American languages and turning away from acknowledging and honoring the important contributions that Native American languages have played in America’s history. For example, notable Native Americans acted as early translators between their relatives and English-speaking settlers to ensure peace and provide life-saving resources to the earliest immigrants in this nation’s history.

“An English‑only mandate does not strengthen America; it silences and excludes the first voices that shaped it,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “Native languages played a vital role in American history by recording our treaties, guiding our governments, and protecting the nation’s very freedom. Native languages used by Native warrior codetalkers were instrumental in America’s victory in both World Wars. The complexity and expressiveness of these languages we made into unbreakable codes. Banning our Native languages from federal engagement would betray that legacy, violate the trust responsibility of the United States, and exclude Native peoples from contributing to the future of this nation and their Tribal Nations in ways we cannot begin to foresee.”

Since 1995, NCAI has opposed, through its resolution process, any proposed legislation, orders, or amendments that impose English as the official language of the United States or that hinder or harm the maintenance, preservation, and use of Native languages.

: Opposing HR 123, “English” as the Official Language

: Opposition to “English Only” Legislation

: A Resolution Strongly Opposing An Election Ballot Requiring the State Of Alaska To Use English Only

NCAI calls on the Administration and Congress to exempt tribal governments and Native American languages from English-only mandates and fully consult with Tribal Nations on any federal actions that impact language rights and Tribal sovereignty.

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. For more information, visit 

NCAI Protection of Native Languages

 — In response to President Donald Trump’s public threat to block a new stadium deal unless the Washington Commanders reinstate their former name and his demand that the Cleveland Guardians also revert back, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) unequivocally opposes any effort to revive racist mascots that demean Indigenous communities. Since 1950, NCAI’s priorities have included the eradication of harmful, unsanctioned Native “themed” mascots and propaganda.

“Any attempt to distract by invoking our names and purporting to speak for our communities is an affront to Tribal sovereignty and is not taken lightly. For seventy-five years, NCAI has held an unbroken voice: Imagery and fan behaviors that mock, demean, and dehumanize Native people have no place in modern society. NCAI will continue to stand in support of the dignity and humanity of Native peoples,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro.

NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr., responded

 to a mascot-related decision by the Department of Education, noting “our youth deserve to see themselves treated with dignity, not as punchlines or cartoonish relics of the past. The continued defense of these mascots is a refusal to confront racism. Enough is enough.”

 for “eliminating a brand that disrespected, demeaned, and stereotyped all Native people.” In July 2021, 

 for “[taking an] important step forward in healing the harms its former mascot long caused Native people, in particular Native youth.” Our position and that of Indian Country broadly — rooted in unanimously passed resolutions reflecting the perspectives of hundreds of Tribal Nations — has not changed.

Tribal governments have been outspoken and unambiguous on this issue for generations. Contrary to President Trump’s assertion that “[o]ur great Indian people, in massive numbers, want this to happen,” Indian Country has repeatedly come together to condemn the unsanctioned use of harmful Native “themed” mascots, particularly those which sexualize, stereotype, or dehumanize American Indian and Alaska Native people.

Conditioning federal policy or development deals on the revival of racist language contradicts the government’s responsibility to uphold tribal rights and dignity, threatens the integrity of lawful governance, and opens the door to further discriminatory policy demands. We are not your mascot. We are not your distraction.

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.

NCAI Condemns President Trump’s Call to Reinstate Harmful Mascot Imagery

 — The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Attorney Michael (Mike) E. Taylor, the Quinault Indian Nation, Tulalip Tribes, and all those whose lives he touched. We are profoundly saddened to learn of his 

, and his absence will be strongly felt across Indian Country.

Mike Taylor’s career embodied the spirit of unwavering dedication to Tribal sovereignty and treaty rights. He played an instrumental role in the 

 litigation, which produced the historic 

 affirming fishing rights for Tribal Nations. His strategic and steadfast advocacy ensured that the treaty rights of the Quinault Indian Nation among others in the suit — and all sovereign Tribal Nations — were recognized and upheld under the law.

At NCAI, we honor those who embody the resilience, courage, and vision necessary to protect our homelands and lifeways. Mike Taylor stood as a beacon of commitment: His legacy endures in the restored waters where Tribal fishers cast their nets and in the strengthened sovereignty of every Tribe that continues to draw strength from his work. As we reflect on his contributions, we also remember the warmth and generosity of spirit he shared.

In this time of grief, we stand united with all Tribal communities in honoring his memory. May his family, colleagues, and all who loved him find comfort in the depth and reach of his impact on Indian Country.

NCAI Mourns the Passing of Attorney Michael E. Taylor, Champion of Tribal Sovereignty and Treaty Rights

 The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is pleased to announce Meghan Bishop (Sugpiat/Native Village of Afognak) as our new Policy Director. With nearly two decades of experience in law and public policy, Ms. Bishop brings a deep commitment to justice reform, tribal self-governance, and child and family welfare, further strengthening NCAI as a national unifying voice for Tribal Nations.

Ms. Bishop joins NCAI following her tenure as Senior Counselor to the Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior, where she managed a complex portfolio spanning public safety, social services, education, Tiwahe, the PROGRESS Act, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) initiatives. She also served as Acting Associate Director for Tribal Justice Support within the Office of Justice Services, overseeing a $65 million budget and providing technical assistance to tribal justice systems nationwide. In addition, Ms. Bishop represented the Department of the United States Sentencing Commission Tribal Issues Advisory Group and led the Indian Child Welfare Act Interagency Workgroup.

Before entering federal service, Ms. Bishop practiced law in Oregon, where she founded and operated a juvenile defense firm. She represented clients in both tribal and state courts, mentored attorneys statewide, and advocated for systemic reforms in juvenile and child welfare law. Her leadership extends across multiple professional legal organizations, and she has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Washington, D.C.

Ms. Bishop holds a Master’s degree in Political Management from The George Washington University, a J.D. from Willamette University College of Law, and a B.A. in Psychology and Humanities from Ohio Wesleyan University. She is a member of the Oregon State Bar.

“Meghan’s expertise, leadership, and unwavering dedication to tribal sovereignty make her an outstanding addition to our policy team,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “Her track record of advancing justice and strengthening tribal self-governance will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for Tribal Nations and their underserved communities.”

As Policy Director, Ms. Bishop will lead NCAI’s policy agenda, guiding strategic initiatives and providing critical analysis to ensure Tribal Nations’ priorities are represented at the highest levels of government. Her work will continue to reflect a commitment to justice, the tenets of federal Indian law and policy, and the advancement of Tribal Nations.

Please join us in welcoming Meghan Bishop to the NCAI team!

NCAI Welcomes Meghan Bishop as Policy Director

In this episode of The Sentinel, we honor and celebrate the Two-Spirit community. We uncover the origins of the term ‘Two-Spirit’ and how Native people acknowledge and reclaim this tradition and identity today. We listen to recorded excerpts from the Two-Spirit Panel held at the 2025 NCAI Executive Council Winter Session, where our panelists and guests discussed the community's current challenges and how tribal leaders can advocate for their Two-Spirit relatives.

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