Strengthening the Circle of Care

OVERVIEW:
Join us for two days of connection, culture, conversation, and action centered on healthier beginnings for Native families.

Strengthening the Circle of Care is a community-centered gathering bringing together Tribal communities, maternal and child health professionals, community organizations, families, and partners to explore maternal, child, and family wellness through Indigenous knowledge, lived experience, community strengths, and collaborative solutions.

This gathering is designed to be more than presentations. Inspired by Gathering of Native Americans (GONA) principles, participants will have opportunities to learn, reflect, build relationships, share experiences, create together, and identify ways we can strengthen maternal and family wellness across our communities.

WHY ATTEND?
Come ready to:

• Connect with people doing maternal, child, and family wellness work throughout the Great Lakes region
• Learn from cultural teachings, community experience, and successful grassroots efforts
• Explore culturally grounded approaches to maternal health and traditional birth practices

Come as you are. Bring your experiences, your questions, your knowledge, and your hopes for healthier Native families.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Throughout the gathering, we are intentionally creating opportunities for culture, ceremony, reflection, connection, and participant care.

Attendees can expect opportunities for smudging and grounding, moments of reflection, cultural teachings, community conversations, creative activities, talking circles, and other ways to connect beyond traditional presentations.

A dedicated space will also be available for grounding and breastfeeding throughout the gathering.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This gathering may be especially meaningful for:

• Tribal maternal and child health professionals
• Tribal public health and healthcare staff
• Doulas, birth workers, and community health workers
• Community-based organizations
• Maternal health partners and advocates
• Individuals working with Native families
• Tribal leaders and community members interested in strengthening maternal, child, and family wellness