Urban Native Collective was proud to support the third annual R.E.A.C.H. Indigenous Advocacy Festival. Held from November 15–17, 2024, at Wright State University’s Student Union, the festival celebrated Native heritage and culture with an engaging mix of performances, discussions, and exhibitions. Co-hosted by Wright State’s Asian and Native American Center, the festival spotlighted themes of authentic representation, education, art, community, and healing.
Friday: The weekend kicked off with a Friday evening dinner reception catered by Indigenous Chef, featuring awards, flute and hoop dance performances. The evening honored local community leader Guy Jones for his 40 years of advocacy in the Dayton region with the establishment of a scholarship in his name for Indigenous youth pursuing degrees at Wright State. Following dinner, artists from across the country opened their vendor booths, showcasing works of art and craftsmanship. The evening also included a panel on the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) highlighting ongoing efforts in compliance with the updated laws and their importance.
Saturday: The festival continued with performances by Iron Lightning Drum and Cherokee elders’ storytelling. Guests explored an art exhibition which juxtaposed the historic photographs of Edward S. Curtis with contemporary Native art, offering a deeper understanding of the evolution of Native representation. The day also saw the kickoff of the children’s art and dance competition, which included categories for spoken word, visual arts, and traditional dance. Closing out the day, a powerful women veterans’ panel discussing “Why We Serve,” explored the importance of cultural inclusion and representation in the military.
Sunday: The festival wrapped up with another day of engaging performances and discussions. The day began with the conclusion of the children’s dance competition, where the winners were announced and all participant’s talent was celebrated. A live recording of Urban Native Collective’s "Life on the Margins: An Urban Native Experience" podcast followed, featuring R.E.A.C.H. founder Stephanie Van Hoose and artist Jillian Waterman, who shared their perspectives on cultural revitalization, collective healing, and advocacy work. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a hoop dancing workshop, learning the fundamentals of the beautiful dance form.
The festival concluded with prayers and a vision for future growth, bringing together the Dayton and Ohio region’s Indigenous peoples to celebrate strength, community, and healing.