Step into the rich traditions of Native American culture and discover the many remarkable ways corn has sustained Indigenous communities for generations. More than a staple food, corn has long been regarded as a sacred gift—providing nourishment, inspiring teachings, and demonstrating the importance of using every part of what the Creator provides.
Participants will explore how Native peoples transformed every part of the corn plant into useful and meaningful items. Corn husks became baskets, dolls, and mattress stuffing; corn cobs were crafted into toys and games; and dried kernels were beautifully fashioned into jewelry that reflected both creativity and cultural identity.
During this interactive, hands-on workshop, participants will create their own traditional corn necklace while learning about the cultural significance of corn and the values of resourcefulness, respect, and gratitude that have been passed down through generations. As each necklace is completed, it becomes more than a handcrafted keepsake—it serves as a symbol of ancestral connection, cultural pride, and the enduring strength of Native traditions. Participants may choose to wear their necklace as a personal reminder of these teachings or present it as a meaningful gift to honor and show respect for someone special.
No prior crafting experience is needed—just bring your curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to learn as we celebrate Native traditions through storytelling, culture,and hands-on artistry.
This 90-minute wellness experience invites participants to reconnect with themselves through movement, music, breath, and rest.
We will begin with an accessible, feel good yoga practice set to a thoughtfully curated playlist featuring diverse musical influences. Through gentle movement, mindful stretching, and breathwork, participants will release tension, improve circulation, and create space throughout the body.
As the practice unfolds, the pace will gradually slow, allowing participants to settle into longer held stretches and restorative postures that support relaxation and nervous system regulation. The session will conclude with a guided somatic & sound meditation, offering an opportunity for deep rest, reflection, and renewal.
Designed for all levels and abilities, this experience balances movement and restoration, inviting participants to care for themselves in the same way they so often care for others. Expect to leave feeling refreshed, grounded, and restored.
Violence prevention begins with education, awareness, and empowerment. This interactive session explores how self-defense and personal safety education can serve as tools for building confidence, strengthening boundaries, and fostering resilience in individuals and communities. Participants will examine how movement-based learning and practical self-defense concepts can support prevention efforts by encouraging self-awareness, healthy communication, and personal empowerment.
In this immersive session participants will release what no longer serves them through intentional plate shattering. This empowering activity will deepen participants connection to self through personal reflection and mindful release. Please note closed toe shoes will be required to participate in this activity. Other safety equipment will be provided.
Director of National Training and Resources, NIWRC
Paloma Hąąpnąąžįwiiga Sánchez, MSW, MA (Ho-Chunk/Xicana Indígena), currently serves as the Director of National Training and Resources at the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center. Paloma holds a Master of Arts in Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, where their studies focused on... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT Camellia Room
The Cultivating Seeds of Healing activity was developed to strengthen our interconnections of community and land, and how it can support strategies for healing. It is based on Indigenous teachings that understand healing as a reciprocal process between these interconnections and that we do not heal or grow alone; all living things depend on each other and land.
Kim Zahne or “Sah-Povi” is Tobacco clan (Sah-Towa/ Pipwungwa) from the Village of Tewa, and a member of the Hopi Tribe. Kim is currently the Program Specialist for the National Indigenous Resource Center. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in American Indian Studies, with an emphasis on Federal... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT Camellia Room
Basketweaving as a form of connecting to Indigenous ancestry. Using your hands to make something, like a basket, can give a person a real sense of accomplishment. We will be making a crossbody gathering basket that can be used for a number of things, especially encouraging use as a vessel to gather more things that connect us to the earth. Connections can bring balance and healing.
As a child and young adult I found that I was drawn to using baskets for everything. Picking berries or flowers, sorting vegetables, storing clothes and shoes and the more I used them the more I wanted to learn. Almost like a bucket list item, but more intense, and the hankering gre... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:00pm - 5:00pm EDT Oak Room
The Cultivating Seeds of Healing activity was developed to strengthen our interconnections of community and land, and how it can support strategies for healing. It is based on Indigenous teachings that understand healing as a reciprocal process between these interconnections and that we do not heal or grow alone; all living things depend on each other and land.
Kim Zahne or “Sah-Povi” is Tobacco clan (Sah-Towa/ Pipwungwa) from the Village of Tewa, and a member of the Hopi Tribe. Kim is currently the Program Specialist for the National Indigenous Resource Center. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in American Indian Studies, with an emphasis on Federal... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT Camellia Room
Greet the day with the NIWRC staff. During this time, we will meet in the hotel lobby at 6:45 am to begin a wellness walk/run to begin our day. Come join us. Please dress comfortably in appropriate walking/running shoes, gear, and a water bottle.
Greet the day with the NIWRC staff. During this time, we will meet in the hotel lobby at 6:45 am to begin a wellness walk/run to begin our day. Come join us. Please dress comfortably in appropriate walking/running shoes and gear, and a water bottle.
