The People Issue 2024: Artist and Advocate Sally Wells
"When Sally Wells prays, it’s always in Choctaw. "Nobody ever asks me what I say,” she says in the courtyard of the Frist, where she often leads land acknowledgements before events. Last month, at the invitation of Rep. Justin Jones…
NAIA Meets with Nashvile Mayor Freddie O’Connell
NAIA views the involvement of leaders like Mayor O'Connell as crucial to building bridges between the Native American community and broader municipal governance. The organization is keen on working closely with Mayor O'Connell's office to enhance awareness of Native American…
Sally Wells, Choctaw, Leads Blessing at Tennessee House Session on February 1, 2024
Sally Wells, the president of the Native American Indian Association of Tennessee, was honored to open the Tennessee House session with a Choctaw prayer on February 1, 2024. She was invited by Rep. Justin Jones, marking the first time an…
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell Visits 42nd Annual Pow Wow
At the 42nd Annual Indian Education Tennessee Pow Wow, an event celebrated for showcasing the vibrant traditions and cultures of Native American communities, the Native American Indian Association warmly received Freddie O'Connell. This gathering, known for its rich array of…
Native American Indian Association of Tennessee needs your help to build a new cultural center
"NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Native American Indian Association of Tennessee is asking for help to build a new cultural center. About 12 years ago the organization bought 6 acres of land off of Bell Road in Antioch, but raising…
Pow wow teaches about Native American cultures and raises money to assist those living in Tennessee
"The Native American Indian Association of Tennessee held its 41st annual educational pow wow this weekend at Long Hunter State Park. The fundraising event educates about Native cultures and is navigating the event’s recent growth. The pow wow features traditional dances…
The dream to build Tennessee’s first Native American Cultural Center
"School kids gather around a roped off ring in Long Hunter State Park. They watch as dancers in traditional Native American clothing move to the sound of the drum. Rose McKeithen watches from the shelter of a nearby tent. “I’m…