Building advocacy networks goal of Indigenous Women's Gathering

By Lisa B. Hamilton, November 14, 2008 [Episcopal News Service] Twenty-five indigenous women are gathering November 14-16 for the Annual Anglican/Episcopal Indigenous Women's Gathering at Washington National Cathedral's Cathedral College. Participants, most of whom live on reservations, will travel from Australia, Alaska, Hawaii and throughout the lower 48 states for the event.

According to Sarah Eagle Heart, conference coordinator and a member of the Oglala Lakota tribe, indigenous women are particularly concerned by the use of methamphetamine and other illegal drugs, poverty and domestic abuse on reservations.

While past Indigenous Women's Gatherings have focused on healing and education around these challenges, "we're taking this gathering to the next level" by empowering indigenous women to become advocates and build advocacy networks, particularly around the issue of domestic violence, said Eagle Heart in an interview.

The Rev. Bradley Hauff, a member of the Oglala Sioux tribe, also known as Oglala Lakota, will deliver the keynote address, "Domestic Violence in Native Communities." Hauff's experience includes serving as Adolescent Program Supervisor at the Domestic Abuse Project in Minneapolis. He is currently rector of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Palm Coast, Florida.

Ruth-Ann Collins, Associate Program Officer for Congregational Learning & Children's Ministry at the Episcopal Church's Evangelism & Congregational Life Center, will present a workshop entitled "Circles of Faith."

Kim Robey, Program Officer for Women's Ministry and Leadership Development at the church's Mission Leadership Center http://www.episcopalchurch.org/mission.htm will lead a session on grass roots organization.

The Rev. Debbie Royals, a member of the Pascua Yaqui tribe and Missioner for Native Ministry Development of the Diocese of Northern California will offer a workshop called "Nine Steps of Forgiveness through the Beatitudes."

In addition to personal growth, sharpened skills, and deepened faith and friendships, Eagle Heart said participants will bring home reflection booklets with stories of Native American Christian women to encourage sharing personal journeys on their reservations.

"In the media and elsewhere, I often hear every ethnicity mentioned except indigenous people, and we need to ensure that our voices are heard," said Eagle Heart.

--The Rev. Lisa B. Hamilton is correspondent for Provinces I, II, III and IV.  She is based in Venice, Florida and Sandisfield, Massachusetts.

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