Strengthening the Circle of Care -- A Great Lakes Tribal Maternal Wellness Gathering 2026

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. 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. Day 1: Belonging & Mastery focuses on connection, cultural grounding, learning, community voices, relationship building, reflection, and creating together. Day 2: Independence & Generosity focuses on community conversation, family perspectives, shared learning, visioning, collaboration, and identifying ways to move forward together.