West River Eagle

NAIWA Conference to be held in Black Hill




The 46th Annual North American Indian Women’s Association Annual Conference will be held in the He Sapa (Black Hills) of South Dakota from June 12-15, 2016.  The theme of the conference is “Winyan T’a Woop’e: Winyan Wica hap’e,” Law of Women:  Virtues of our Lakota Women.  


The conference participants will arrive on Sunday, June 12 with registration, a member reception and a NAIWA Executive Officer’s meeting in the evening at the Spearfish Holiday Inn, host motel for the conference.    


On Monday, June 13, registration continues at 8 am at Club Buzz, Yellow Jacket Student Union, on the Black Hills State University campus.  Opening ceremonies at 9am will welcome Native women and conference participants from all over the country with Ms. Georgia Pedro, (Laguna Pueblo) NAIWA National President presiding. 


Presentations will be given by area Tribal members throughout the three day event, including Arvol Looking Horse, Brenda Claymore, Eileen Briggs, Marcella LeBeau and Jace DeCory to name a few.  An optional trip to Mato Paha (Bear Butte) will take place in the late afternoon on Tuesday, June 14.  On Wednesday morning, a NAIWA Memorial service will be held to recognize past NAIWA members and an open forum to discuss current issues will be held. The afternoon will allow conference participants time to experience our beautiful Black Hills. 


On Wednesday evening beginning at 5 pm, a banquet will be held in the Jacket Legacy Room of the Yellow Jacket Student Union. The highlight of the banquet will be the recognition of Ms. Millie Rexroat, Oglala Lakota, NAIWA member and former pilot in the WASP (Women’s Air Service Patrol). Ms. Rexroat proudly served our nation as a pilot during WW II and she will be recognized for her contributions to her country and people, with an honor song offered by the local BHSU student/community drum group, Wicayazipa Zi.    A silent auction with items donated by generous 


NAIWA and local community members will be held and winners will be announced that evening.  


The local SD Chapter of NAIWA planning committee and national officers anticipate an enlightening and enjoyable 46th annual NAIWA Conference in the sacred Black Hills of South Dakota.


For additional information, registration and membership information, full agenda of activities, please contact Diane Booth, Conference Treasurer, SD Chapter, NAIWA  dianebooth07@gmail.com; P.O. Box 316, Ridgeview, SD 57652; 605-733-2329.



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