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56th Annual Native American Critical Issues Conference 

Sending a Message to Future Generations

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March 5-7, 2026 
FireKeepers Casino Hotel
Battle Creek, MI

Join us for 18 conference sessions plus a Reception, Keynote, College Fair, and evening activity.

Thank you 2026 Sponsors!

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2026 Keynote Speaker

William Morin

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Session Topics Include: 

  • Ensuring Authenticity in Art, Words, and Actions

  • Sending a Message Through Music

  • Nimiigwechwendam Niibish (I Am Thankful For Water) Collaborative LTBB Youth Camp

  • Strengthening Community-Led Suicide Prevention for Future Generations

  • Impact of U.S. Indian Boarding School on Present Day Child-Rearing

  • Pre-conference session hosted by the Indigenous Education Initiative and the Confederation of Michigan Tribal Education Departments

  • And more!

Native High School and College Students:
Explore Educational and Professional Pathways

MIEC College Fair, March 6, 2026

During the 56th Annual Native American Critical Issues Conference

At FireKeepers Casino Hotel, Battle Creek, MI​​

Why attend?

  • Explore educational and professional pathways 

  • Compare your options

  • Ask clarifying questions

  • Demystify admissions and applications processes

  • Discover unexpected options

  • Narrow your search and direction

  • Get some freebies

All in one place! Colleges, universities, training programs, tribal enterprises and employers, and community organizations will be there. We’re all eager to get to know you in a casual, low-pressure environment. Make informed decisions about your next steps!

College Fair Vendors:

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Are you a college or informational vendor interested in participating in the College Fair?

MIEC invites colleges, universities, training programs, tribal enterprises and employers, and community organizations. 

  • Download our application form.

  • Submit your application to Amber (see application) 

  • Receive a promo code from MIEC to complete your payment on Eventbrite
     

Our capacity is limited, please submit your application as soon as possible. Thank you!

"Chi Miigwech for providing a conference that left us motivated and ready to apply new knowledge!"

Attendee, 2025 Conference

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