Published on Aug 26, 2020
Dear NCAI Membership and Partners:
Greetings and thank you in advance for your time. I am writing to update you on the status of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) upcoming 77th Annual Convention & Marketplace, scheduled to be held November 8-13, 2020 in Portland, Oregon. After much consideration by NCAI’s Executive Board and Regional Vice Presidents, and after analyzing the outlook and state of Oregon’s reopening plans in light of the coronavirus pandemic, we have decided the most prudent path forward is to conduct this convention in a fully virtual environment. While we are disappointed that we are unable to visit with our brothers and sisters in Oregon during this time, we are optimistic and excited to bring to you one of our most important convenings in a safe yet innovative way.
In moving towards a full virtual event, NCAI intends for this upcoming convention to feature a robust agenda, which will produce the results that NCAI’s membership expects from such events. Our Congress will meet in full, and the convention schedule will allow for plenty of time for tribal leaders to identify and discuss important policy priorities to be advanced in in the coming year and beyond. The virtual platform will also feature our annual Marketplace, and special events highlighting the traditions and customs of the tribal nations that call the Northwest home.
As always, we thank you for your support and understanding of this decision. NCAI staff will be working over the next few weeks to provide you with more information about how to register for and sponsor the event.
Our hearts continue to be with you as you work to help your tribal nations recover from the pandemic and emerge even stronger. Please reach out to our wonderful Events team at events@ncai.org with any questions about this announcement and we will be happy to answer them for you.
Be well,
Fawn Sharp
President
National Congress of American Indians