In April, Urban Native Collective team members traveled to Las Vegas to join the National Urban Indian Families Coalition (NUIFC) for a national convening. The gathering brought together 24 Urban Native organizations from 18 states to share stories, strategies, and resources from their respective communities.

Organizational leaders spoke of the mounting challenges facing Urban Native communities in 2025. Many expressed emotions in response to changes in federal policy, executive orders, and increasingly competitive funding opportunities. The NUIFC provided updates and guidance on these shifting conditions, their implications and how to prepare for what lies ahead. They also acknowledged the growing pressure upon nonprofits to fill in the gaps left by the reduction of social services; the cohort shared skills for sustaining themselves and upholding our responsibility to our communities. Organizational leaders called for unity in these uncertain times, pointing to the unique position of Native peoples—as both a racial group and political classification with inherent rights protected by th Constitution—as a powerful tool to assert our Sovereignty and advocate for our communities.

The gathering also featured a keynote address from former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams. In a motivating speech, Abrams spoke to the power held by the people in these volatile political times. She called for continued commitment to civic engagement and public service, emphasizing the responsibility we hold in shaping our collective future. The gathering closed on a hopeful and determined note. The cohort left feeling empowered by new ideas, strengthened partnerships, and a deep sense of purpose. As we reflect on the legacy of our ancestors,we are reminded of our collective power and ability to navigate trying times and whatever lies ahead.