CAICC at DNC 2024

Shekoli, Posoh Mawanewweyak!

I would like to send a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the recent fundraiser at the Democratic National Convention, hosted by the Tunica Biloxi Tribe at their Chicago Branch Office. As someone who was born and raised in Chicago, many of the organizations that belong to the Chicago American Indian Community Collaborative(CAICC) have shaped me to be the leader that I am today. As I now raise my own family here and serve as Board President of CAICC, your support means so much to me both personallyand professionally.

Your financial contributions will help support our collective efforts to improve the experiences and lives of Native Americans in the Chicagoland area. The work that we do engages leadership across the Chicago Native community towards creating a shared vision. We address systemic challenges and move towards establishing policies and practices that support the wellbeing and self-determination of our communities. We create spaces for community leaders to build their capacity to make a difference in things that are affecting our families and community members. For Tribal Nation leaders, this includes many of your own tribal members and relatives that are a part of our community.

Since time immemorial, Chicago has served as an important gathering place for tribal nations and leaders to exchange ideas and stories and engage in political activities. Coming together for the Democratic National Convention is a continuation of that legacy. Chicago continues to be an important confluence for our leaders to connect with each other and strengthen our collective efforts towards building the world that we want to live in. Your partnership and presence demonstrate that you care and are also committed to seeing us succeed in our mission. We also hope you remember that you have family here in the Chicago area thatsupport the interests of tribal nations and you can always count on us to advocate for tribal sovereignty. We greatly appreciate your support, your leadership, and the service you provide for your community. We look forward to a continued partnership with you.

Yaw^ko, Maecwaewaenen, Thank You,

Jasmine Gurneau (Oneida citizen/ Menominee descendant)
Board President, Chicago American Indian Community Collaborative

Leveraging Connections:

How the CAICC Network Opened Doors at the DNC

Democratic National Convention season made me realize how crucial connections we have in the CAICC collaborative really matters. Native America Calling invited Pamala Silas and Mary Smith to be a part of their program. As their conversation with the hosts wrapped up, the hosts asked Pam if she knew anyone else who could contribute. Without a moment’s hesitation, Pam recommended me.

However, my excitement was cut short as I didn’t have a pass to the event. And just when I thought I’ll settle on being just a listener, the CAICC network swiftly sprang into action, making a significant impact. Our facilitator, Marne Smiley, contacted me and told me Justin Velasquez of Tunica-Biloxi Tribe offered his extra pass. And just like that, I was in.

My short anecdote shows how incredible being surrounded by people in the same network. Just when you think an opportunity knocked the door once and went away, collaborative resources push the opportunity back to your door.

-Andrew Johnson
Native American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois

Fundraiser event

CAICC Fundraiser with Tunica Biloxi

CAICC is proud to have partnered with the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s Chicago Branch Office to host a reception during the Democratic National Convention. The event focused on raising awareness of key issues facing the Native Americans and presenting a united front for our communities. We’re excited to be part of this important work.

Honoring Our Waters:

the Tribal Connection to Stewardship Celebration

Marne Smiley, CAICC’s facilitator delivered the Land Acknowledgment at the beginning of the Honoring Our Waters Celebration at Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson was also in attendance and event, which was hosted by Biinaagami and the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative.

Chairwoman Gena Kakkak of the Menominee Indian Tribe spoke at Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago about the importance of protecting natural resources and waterways in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Region. The Biinaagami map of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Basin sits in front of her.