Agenda

 

All events will take place at the Omni Hotel (100 West Oklahoma City Blvd., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73109) unless otherwise noted.

 

View the Agenda-at-a-Glance here.

 

Thursday, July 25

8:00 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Registration | North Prefunction (Second Floor)

9:00 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. IMC Opening Ceremony + Breakfast | Five Moons 4-8
Join members of the Indigenous Journalists Association and conference attendees from across the globe during the Opening Ceremony on Thursday, July 25 from 9-10:30 a.m., in Five Moons 4-8. Breakfast will be provided.

CATV Senior Content Producer Darren Brown (Cochiti Pueblo / Choctaw) will emcee and Mayor David Holt (Osage Nation) will welcome attendees to Oklahoma City. Pearl Thomas (Muscogee Nation) will offer a prayer and song in the Mvskoke language. The Kiowa Comanche Apache Veterans Association will post colors during the grand entry. IJA will share a video featuring past presidents of the organization and President Christine Trudeau (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) will introduce the current 2024 IJA Board of Directors.

10:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Media For Indigenous Peoples: Towards a Global Response for the Implementation of Article 16 of UNDRIP | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Irmgarda Kasinskaite-Buddeberg, Advisor for Communication and Information, UNESCO; Jodi Rave Spotted Bear (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation / Lakota), Board Member, Indigenous Journalists Association (USA); Karla Grant (Western Arrernte), Presenter, Journalist and Executive Producer, National Indigenous Television (Australia); Connie Walker (Cree), Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist, Canada; Frank Blanquet, (Yucatec Maya), Award-winning Content Producer, Director of Television for First Nations Experience, USA

Pursuant to the recommendation of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) and the recent resolutions of the United Nations and the Human Rights Council, UNESCO will convene a special session during the Indigenous Media Conference to prepare a study on the right of Indigenous Peoples to the media contained in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (Article 16), the obligations of States and the media arising therefrom, and the practices applied in implementing this right. The side event will provide an opportunity for Indigenous media representatives to contribute valuable input in the preparation of the study, including the literature review, application of the methodological framework, launch of the global survey for data collection, and strategic recommendations. The findings will be integrated into the final study for the presentation at the annual session of the UN Permanent Forum in 2025.

10:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. From Classroom to Community: Practicing Journalism Education in First Nation Communities | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Duncan McCue (Anishinaabe), Professor, Carleton University; Kristy Snell (Dakota), Journalist-in-Residence, Concordia University; Trina Roache (Mi’kmaw), Professor, University of King’s College

Indigenous journalism professors at three Canadian universities explain how they worked in partnership with First Nations to create courses teaching journalism students how to report in Indigenous communities. Relationship-building, journalism ethics and Indigenous pedagogy will be explored.

10:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. The ABC News Storytellers Summit | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Jay Alpert, Charliss Edsitty (Diné), Alisha Cowan-Vieira

The ABC News Storyteller Summit is a development series created by ABC News and the ABC Owned Television Stations designed to bring producers, writers, reporters and content creators together for a series of cutting-edge conversations and training sessions to take their storytelling to the next level. The summit is led by ABC News journalists and executives from across all of our platforms and shows. Participants will walk away with first-hand knowledge and new and innovative ways to enhance their storytelling.

This session is sponsored by ABC News.

12:00 – 1:00 P.M. Lunch (On Your Own)

12:45 P.M. – 2:45 P.M. BAD PRESS Screening + Q&A | First Americans Museum 
(Offsite Event – Transportation Provided)

A screening of the feature documentary, ‘Bad Press’, which follows the Muscogee Nation’s fight for freedom of the press for their tribal media outlet, Mvskoke Media, will begin at 12:45 p.m., in the Five Moons Theater at the First Americans Museum. A Q&A with co-director / producer Rebecca Landsberry-Baker (Muscogee Creek) and film participants: Angel Ellis (Muscogee Creek), Dode Barnett (Muscogee Creek) and Mark Randolph (Muscogee Creek), moderated by impact and distribution director Lisa Y Allen will follow.

The First Americans Museum is located at 659 American Indian Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73129. Shuttles for the screening will depart from the Omni Hotel beginning at 12:15 p.m., from the south entrance on Mick Cornett Dr. Shuttles will run throughout the day with the last departure at 8:15 p.m.

1:00 – 2:00 P.M. How to Survive and Thrive Away from Mainstream Media | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Kim Wheeler (Anishinaabe / Mohawk), Karyn Pugliese (Algonquin), Angel Moore (Cree)

Kim Wheeler left her mainstream media job two years ago, leaving behind a steady paycheck. She is now so busy she has to turn down work, producing television specials, awards shows and podcasts. Angel Moore decided to apply to Indigenous-owned media and never looked back and says, “You can’t put a price (or a paycheck) on creative control and Indigenous sovereignty over storytelling.” Karyn Pugliese made her career working for small players, but it didn’t stop her from making an impact in the media business or on the public interest. In an age of media startups, gig work, and legacy media shutdowns, presenters will explore reasons to opt for a career outside the mainstream.

1:00 – 2:00 P.M. Behind the Scenes of Building Digital Media Content | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Cheyenne Bearfoot (Chiricahua Apache Nation) Host and Writer, Sovereign Innovations; Gabrielle Ewing, Director of Programming, PBS Digital Studios; Benjamin C Yazza (Diné), Multimedia Producer, NMPBS

Thinking of starting a series on Youtube? Posting about a production on Instagram or Tiktok? In this session, presenters will share how they produce Indigenous content for targeting digital platforms, from methods of approaching production to replying to commenters. Each voice in this panel highlights a separate part of the overall production and workflow of a successful series. Hear from three creators working on Indigenous stories for series including: “Sovereign Innovations,” “A People’s History of Native America,” and “Above the Noise” at PBS Digital Studios and beyond.

1:00 – 2:00 P.M. Indigenous Climate Solutions Journalism: Exploring the Nuances of Covering Traditional Knowledge in Climate Stories | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson, Pacific Island Journalist, Climate Director SJN; Luna Reyna (Little Shell Ojibwe descendant), NW Bureau Chief, Underscore News + ICT; Taylar Dawn Stagner (Cheyenne Arapaho Tribe / Eastern Shoshone), Indigenous Affairs Reporting Fellow, Grist; Antonia Gonzalez (Navajo), Managing News Editor, Koahnic Broadcast Corporation; Anita Hofschneider, Senior Staff Writer, Grist

As the climate crisis has intensified, mainstream journalism has finally begun to cover Indigenous climate solutions and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK). However, with attention to Indigenous knowledge and methods come increased risks that these practices and traditions are portrayed as resources that can be exploited to “save” humanity from environmental disaster. In this training session, The Uproot Project and the Solutions Journalism Network partner to provide skill-based training on practicing solutions journalism for Indigenous journalists who want to report on climate solutions arising from their own and other Indigenous communities.

2:00 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. Break

2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. Get to Know Tribal Historic Preservation Officers | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Valerie Grussing, PhD, NATHPO Executive Director; Jon Eagle, Sr. (Hunkpapa Lakota), THPO, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe; Nicholas Laluk, PhD (White Mountain Apache Tribe), THPO, White Mountain Apache Tribe; Stacy Laravie (Ponca), NATHPO Indigenization Director

This panel will be a conversation with Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (THPOs) about the sacred and necessary work they’re doing, the challenges they face, and what they wish every journalist knew about them. Topics will include NAGPRA and repatriation, protecting sacred sites, place renaming, cultural resource preservation, consultation on renewable energy development, and more.

2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. Navigating Federal Courts | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Graham Lee Brewer (Cherokee), Sean Murphy, Ben Felder

Tracking cases through the federal courts can be both complicated and expensive. This panel will go over practical tips on how to track cases (sometimes for free) and break news. Attendees also will hear about upcoming changes to the AP Stylebook on covering criminal justice.

2:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. Environmental Reporting Grants: How to Submit the Best Application | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Dave Spratt, Institute for Journalism & Natural Resources; Halle Parker, Board Member, Society of Environmental Journalists; Eden Fineday (Cree), Publisher, IndigiNews

Reporting on the environment means getting out in the field to see things for yourself and meeting people on site. Travel costs can add up, but grant funds are available to help journalists cover the costs of field reporting. This session will cover best practices for building your grant application, what to include (or not), and what selection committees are looking for in an application.

3:00 P.M. – 5:15 P.M. SUGARCANE Screening + Q&A sponsored by National Geographic | First Americans Museum 
(Offsite Event – Transportation Provided)

The feature documentary, ‘Sugarcane’ investigates the abuse and missing children at an Indian residential school. The film will begin at 3 p.m., followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.

This screening is sponsored by National Geographic.

The First Americans Museum is located at 659 American Indian Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73129. Shuttles for the screening will depart from the Omni Hotel beginning at 2:30 p.m., from the south entrance on Mick Cornett Dr. Shuttles will run throughout the day with the last departure at 8:15 p.m.

3:30 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Coffee Break | Five Moons Prefunction

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. How Not to Partner on Indigenous Coverage | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Luella Brien (Apsáalooke), Executive Director, Four Points Media / Editor-in-Chief, Four Points Press; Sunnie R. Clahchischiligi (Diné), Indigenous Affairs Editor, High Country News; Kate Schimel, News & Investigations Editor, High Country News

Partnerships are a powerful tool to cover Native communities, and impactful and prominent partnerships have come to shape the Indigenous media landscape. But they come with risks and deserve to be handled with caution. Native reporters involved with mainstream outlets can face blowback from their communities. Non-Native outlets can steamroll Indigenous partners’ input. And outlets can just have different aims that don’t work. We’ll cover how to set goals, examine risks and rewards, explore the value of an MOU and determine a clear partnership exit strategy.

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. How to Report on AI across Every Beat | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Pia Sarkar, Deputy Global Business Editor, AP; Felicia Fonseca, Southwest Assistant News Director, AP; Bryan Pollard (Cherokee), Grant Operations Manager, AP

AI is not only happening in Silicon Valley; it’s happening in communities everywhere. Law enforcement, hospitals, schools, banks and government agencies use algorithms to make decisions about what happens in your community every day. AP journalists will explain how reporters across every beat can cover AI and examine AI systems. We’ll recommend questions to ask departments that use AI tools and discuss which communities may be most affected by AI. We’ll also go over the new AP Stylebook chapter on AI and share best practices for reporting and editing.

 

This session is sponsored by The Associated Press.

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. The Importance of In-Person Events | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Shannon Shaw Duty (Osage Nation), Editor, Osage News; Allison Herrera (Xolon Salinan), Senior Reporter, APM Reports; Brittany Harlow, Director, Verified News Network

Shannon Shaw Duty, Allison Herrera and Brittany Harlow present the importance of in-person events, emphasizing their role in raising awareness, strengthening communities, fostering trust, and generating revenue. They will discuss event types and techniques, as well as best practices for collaboration. Events they have held together include: Examining In Trust, Exploring Indigenous Allyship and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ bus tours and award show watch parties. The presentation highlights the significance of meaningful events through attendee experience, clear calls to action, and post-event communication to improve future programming.

5:30 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. IMC Opening Night Reception sponsored by NBCUniversal | First Americans Museum

(Offsite Event – Transportation will be provided)

Emcee: Jennifer Loren (Cherokee Nation), Cherokee Film; Welcome: Warren Queton (Kiowa Tribe), University of Oklahoma; Alyssa London (Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribe), NBC News and MSNBC; Entertainment: Landa Lakes (Chickasaw Nation); IJA Membership Address: Christine Trudeau (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation), IJA Board of Directors; Keynote Presentation: Shannon Shaw Duty (Osage Nation), Osage News

Senior Director of Cherokee Film Jennifer Loren will emcee the Opening Night Reception where Warren Queton will offer a prayer and welcome. Alyssa London will address attendees on behalf of the evening’s sponsor, NBCUniversal. Entertainment will be provided by Landa Lakes and President Christine Trudeau will address the IJA membership. Osage News Editor Shannon Shaw Duty will deliver the keynote address. Small plates and refreshments will be served.

 

The First Americans Museum is located at 659 American Indian Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73129. Shuttles will depart from the Omni Hotel beginning at 5:15 p.m., from the south entrance on Mick Cornett Dr. Shuttles will run throughout the Opening Night Reception with the last departure at 8:15 p.m.

The opening night reception is sponsored by NBCUniversal.

 

6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. IJA Elections | First Americans Museum

MEMBERS ONLY
In-person voting for the IJA Board of Directors will take place at the IJA Voting Table during Opening Night Reception at the First Americans Museum from 6-8 p.m. Only eligible IJA members in good standing may vote.

 

Friday, July 26

7:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Registration | North Prefunction (Second Floor)

7:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. Coffee Service | Five Moons Prefunction

9:00 A.M. – 5:15 P.M. Indigenous Media Expo | Five Moons 1-3

The Indigenous Media Expo is the networking hub of the event, where editors and reporters meet, experts trade experiences, journalists get critiques and friends connect. Attendees can also shop local Indigenous vendors and crafter booths.

8:00 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. Oklahoma Freedmen and McGirt | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Adreanna Rodriguez (Standing Rock Sioux), Allison Herrera (Xolon Salinan), Angela Y. Walton-Raji

Award-winning journalists Allison Herrera (Xolon Salinan) and Adreanna Rodriguez (Standing Rock Sioux) discuss their reporting on Oklahoma Freedmen and McGirt.  Their story follows Michael Hill, a Freedmen descendant who is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation. After an altercation with the Okmulgee Police department, he finds himself in the maze of the criminal justice system that refuses to recognize his Native ancestry, thus denying him the right to be tried and seek justice in the court of his peers because of the antiquated law.

8:00 A.M. –9:30 A.M. Accessing Records for Reporting on Tribal Governments | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Tristan Ahtone (Kiowa), Gunita Singh, Shannon Shaw Duty (Osage Nation), Douglas Dodd

Government records are an important source of information when reporting on tribal governments, but the processes to obtain them are not always straightforward. This session will discuss freedom of information laws in a number of tribal nations and best practices for requesting records related to tribal governments. Participants will hear from journalists who have found success obtaining records under tribal, state, and federal freedom of information laws with free legal support from attorneys at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, and will come away with practical tips and resources to help them access information critical to their work.

8:00 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. Press Freedom and Reporting on Indigenous Frontlines in Turtle Island | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Brandi Morin (Cree / Iroquois / French), Karyn Pugliese (Algonquin), Angel Ellis (Muscogee Nation), Andrea Houston

Across Turtle Island, journalists and media workers are being threatened, targeted, harassed, and increasingly facing criminal charges by police for simply doing their jobs. These attacks on press freedoms are happening disproportionately to racialized journalists, and especially women. How is this playing out on either side of the colonially-drawn border? What do the coming elections in “Canada” and the “U.S.” mean for press freedoms? And how can we as an industry come together to collectively fight back on those forces trying to suppress press freedoms?

9:30 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Coffee Break in Indigenous Media Expo | Five Moons 1-3

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Elections and Disenfranchisement | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Dan Lewerenz (Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska), Pauly Denetclaw (Diné), Marisa Demarco, Christine Fernando, Felicia Fonseca

What are local and state officials doing to ensure that minority communities have equal opportunity to vote? Panelists will discuss restrictive voting laws in various states, access to ballot boxes, misinformation and other election-related topics. Attendees will learn how to be attuned to misinformation as it relates to democracy. They will get a snapshot of the states that, historically, have disenfranchised voters in minority communities.

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Trust Indicators in Indian Country: What We Learned from Native News Users | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Teresa Trumbly Lamsam (Osage Nation), Ph.D.; Jodi Rave Spotted Bear (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation / Lakota)

Be the first to hear groundbreaking findings on the ways Native Americans engage with news and what they want from journalists. Explore results from 25 in-depth user experience interviews across 5 states, and discover what this means for your journalism organization as we gain insights into the importance of the Trust Indicators®. Learn how user-centered design can help you develop strategies to truly meet the needs of Native news users in this session based on a collaboration between the Trust Project and the Indigenous Media Freedom Alliance.

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Sustainability: Growing & Maintaining a News Business | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Myers Reece, Eden Fineday (Cree), Luella Brien (Apsáalooke), Elaine Díaz Rodríguez

How to grow and maintain a news business based on the experiences of three LION Publishers members: Underscore News, IndigiNews, and Four Points Media. Get tools and resources to support entrepreneurs in the three pillars identified in LION’s past work with news businesses: operational resilience, financial health, and journalistic impact.

11:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. IJA Membership Luncheon and Business Meeting | Five Moons 4-8
(Ticketed Event)

Emcee: Pauly Denetclaw (Diné), Political Reporter, ICT; Welcome and Prayer: Rep. Dode Barnett (Muscogee Nation), Muscogee Creek National Council; Presenters: IJA Staff; Charles Whitaker, Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism; Christine Trudeau, President, IJA Board of Directors; Shondiin Silversmith (Diné), Indigenous Communities Reporter, The Arizona Mirror and Chair, IJA Elections Committee

Join leaders and fellow members of the Indigenous Journalists Association for lunch and networking during the annual business meeting. Attendees will review IJA’s strategic plan and recognize the 2024 IJA-Medill Milestone Achievement Award recipient, the late Nellie Moore (Iñupiaq). IJA will host an informal Meet-and-Greet for board of directors candidates at the conclusion of the meeting.

 

 

1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. IJA Elections | North Prefunction (Second Floor)

MEMBERS ONLY
In-person voting for the IJA Board of Directors will take place at the IJA Voting Table on the second floor of the Omni Hotel from 1-4 p.m. Only eligible IJA members in good standing may vote.

12:30 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. Tools to Fight Election Misinformation | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Samantha Sunne

In this session, we’ll highlight a range of tools to help journalists fight mis- and disinformation online, with a focus on video and images.

This session is sponsored by Google News Initiative.

12:30 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. Funding 101: How to Get Grants, Fellowships and Support for Your Work | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Eric Ferrero, Noy Thrupkaew, Tara Gatewood (Diné)

This session includes an overview of funding available for reporting projects, specific tips and guidance on how to successfully apply for grants and fellowships and audience Q&A. Attendees will leave the room with: (1) a list of eight specific funding opportunities with deadlines and links for more information; (2) contacts at at least three of the larger funding organizations; and (3) several actionable tips for how to successfully apply for grants and fellowships.

12:30 P.M. – 1:30 P.M. Reporting on Tribal Businesses and Economies | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Mark Trahant (Shoshone-Bannock), Brian Edwards, Savannah Maher (Mashpee Wampanoag)

Tribal governments and enterprises are frequently some of the largest employers and economic engines in their regions. But tribes’ economic triumphs and contributions can go overlooked. Reporters with ICT, Tribal Business News and Marketplace share tips on building economic coverage into a tribal affairs beat and overcoming data gaps around Native consumers and tribal economies.

1:30 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. Coffee Break in Indigenous Media Expo | Five Moons 1-3

2:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. Investigative Methods for Reporting in Indigenous Communities | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Tristan Ahtone (Kiowa), Editor-at-Large, Grist; Graham Lee Brewer (Cherokee), Race and Ethnicity Reporter, AP; Kate Schimel, News & Investigations Editor, High Country News; Connie Walker (Cree), Investigative Reporter and Podcast Host

This hands-on workshop aims to deconstruct and familiarize both reporters and editors with investigative tools for covering Indigenous stories. The program is designed to give participants a chance to develop story ideas, refine reporting plans, and identify resources to aid in research. Is there an issue going in your coverage area or community that you’re sure deserves more scrutiny? A dataset you’ve long wanted to dig into? Or a project you’ve thought about but haven’t been sure how to move it forward? Bring them to this session and experienced reporters and editors will help get your ideas pitch-ready.

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Navigating Academic Red Tape | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Victoria LaPoe (Cherokee), Melissa Greene-Blye (Miami Nation), Shondiin Silversmith (Diné), Sarah Liese (Diné / Chippewa Cree), Ryan Comfort (Keweenaw Bay Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe), Ben LaPoe, Sheena Roetman-Wynn (Lakota / Muscogee)

Academia can be a world of “red tape” and has become increasingly profit-driven, with a move away from inclusive campus initiatives. Higher education needs more Indigenous scholars and professionals, at all levels, to support students – and faculty– attempting to survive the system for their desired career success. This panel explores rights; possible questions to ask to empower your experience; and includes IJA voices from varying academic stages.

2:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Matriarchs in Media | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Jourdan Bennett-Begaye (Diné), Shannon Shaw Duty (Osage Nation), Katie Oyan (Oglala Lakota), Angel Ellis (Muscogee Nation), Karyn Pugliese (Algonquin)

Mainstream news organizations have very few or no Indigenous newsroom leaders or executives, and yet there is an increase of Indigenous women in newsroom leadership across the U.S., and Canada. This panel will focus on women leading their newsrooms and organizations, their experiences, challenges, and successes. What does it take as an Indigenous woman to lead in a white male-dominated industry? Where do they see Indigenous women in newsrooms in the future? What can the next generation learn?

3:00 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. Coffee Break in Indigenous Media Expo | Five Moons 1-3

3:30 P.M. – 4:15 P.M. How to Launch a Podcast | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Alyssa London (Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribe), Robert Jago (Kwantlen First Nation / Nooksack Indian Tribe) and Angel Ellis (Muscogee Nation)

Podcasts are a powerful way to get stories told that can otherwise have a hard time breaking through in traditional news cycles. Join MSNBC Contributor Alyssa London and co-hosts of the new “Pretendians” podcast, Robert Jago and Angel Ellis, in a discussion about the logistics, engagement and oral storytelling that goes into creating your own podcast.

This session is sponsored by NBCUniversal. 

4:15 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Spotlight on NBCU Comedies | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Alyssa London (Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribe), Tokala Black Elk (Oglala Lakota)

NBCU comedy stars, including Tokala Black Elk from the new NBC comedy, “Happy’s Place,” preview their upcoming series.

This session is sponsored by NBCUniversal. 

3:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Covering Green Colonialism | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Sunnie Clahchischiligi (Diné), Indigenous Affairs Editor, High Country News, B. ‘Toastie’ Oaster (Choctaw), Staff Writer, High Country News; Jarrette Werk (Aaniiih & Nakoda), Staff Reporter and Photographer, Underscore News / Report for America; Anita Hofschneider, Senior Staff Reporter, Grist

The rush to develop renewable energy has escalated threats to sacred sites, as private companies work with state, federal and local governments to extract lithium and copper for batteries, or to build wind, solar, and other renewable energy infrastructure to power the grid, all at the cost of Indigenous cultures. Few reporters are covering this widespread issue, and surface-level reporting by non-Natives tends to both-sides it. How can Native journalists develop incisive reporting that cuts to the heart of the issue and exposes the structural injustices at play? Join Kate Schimel, B. ‘Toastie’ Oaster, Jarrette Werk and Anita Hofschneider for a conversation on how to effectively cover the green rush.

4:30 P.M. – 5:15 P.M. Snack Break in Indigenous Media Expo | Five Moons 1-3 

Enjoy an afternoon snack break in the Indigenous Media Expo with sweet and salty treats! Peruse the booths and grab an ice cream bar, miniature corn dogs, bavarian pretzels and chocolate drizzle caramel corn while you shop and chat!

5:15 P.M. – 6:15 P.M. IndigiQueer Coverage in Indian Country | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Angel Ellis (Muscogee Nation), Molly Young, Indigenous Affairs Reporter, The Oklahoman; Felix Clary (Chickasaw), Reporter, ICT + Tulsa World; Frances Danger (Mvskoke/Semvnole) Freelance Journalist & Advocate

Indian Country was hit hard with news of Nex Benedict’s death. Local and national media outlets scrambled to confirm their name, tribal affiliation, and gender identity while mistakes were made with Indigenous youth watching. It’s now more important than ever to get reporting right, especially on our trans Indigenous communities. This panel will take a look at the past year’s coverage of trans/Indigenous coverage in the media.

5:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. Digging for Elusive Truths in Archives | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Russell Cobb

Angie Debo had a simple commandment to researchers, so simple it fit on her gravestone: “Historian, discover the truth and publish it.” Archives represent a means to this noble end, and yet they are every bit as fraught with contradictions, disputes, and power struggles as living human subjects. Digitization of archives through public and private initiatives make them more accessible–and more controversial–than ever. Using a walkthrough method of one digital artifact, I provide tools and critical reflection on archival work regarding Dawes allotments. Attendees will understand some of the perils and promises of digitization of archives involving Indigenous peoples and relate them to data sovereignty.

6:15 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. IJA IndigiQueer Brainstorming Style Guide Session | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Christine Trudeau (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation), Chair, IJA Indigiqueer Committee; Shondiin Silversmith (Diné), Co-Chair, IJA Indigiqueer Committee; Angel Ellis (Muscogee Nation); Jourdan Bennett-Begaye (Diné); Sunnie Clahchischiligi (Diné); Francisco Vara-Orta; Jarrette Werk (Aaniiih & Nakoda); Nika Bartoo-Smith (Osage & Oneida descendant); Sarah Liese (Diné & Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians); B. ‘Toastie’ Oaster (Choctaw)

Join members of the Indigenous Journalists Association’s IndigiQueer Committee for a brainstorming session to inform a new IJA reporting guide. This session is open to all IJA members, and will be led by IndigiQueer committee members in a brainstorming session format.

8:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. Native American Journalism Fellowship (NAJF)/Indigenous Journalism Fellowship (IJF) Alumni Mixer | Social Capital 

(Offsite Event – Located at 517 S Hudson Ave; Oklahoma City, OK 73109. This is a quick walk across the park, or a very quick Uber. Reserved space is outside. Cash bar and food.)

For any and all NAJA/IJA fellowship alumni to reminisce and socialize! The 2024 Indigenous Journalism Fellowship cohort will be in attendance, so please come say hi and give them some support and encouragement!

Saturday, July 27

7:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. Registration | North Prefunction (Second Floor)

7:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. Coffee Service | Five Moons Prefunction

9:30 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. Continental Breakfast Break | Five Moons 1-3

9:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. Indigenous Media Expo | Five Moons 1-3

8:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Health Equity in Indian Country: What’s Working | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Melissa Cassutt, Rural Media Manager, Solutions Journalism Network Health Equity Initiative Co-Lead; Christine Trudeau (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation), President, Indigenous Journalists Association Board and SJN Health Equity Initiative Co-Lead; Tyler Thomas (Cherokee), Executive Editor, Cherokee Phoenix; Antonia Gonzales (Navajo), Host and Producer, National Native News, Roselynn Yazzie (Shoshone-Bannock), Assistant Editor, Sho-Ban News; Rachael German (Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate), Digital Media Specialist, Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate

It can be as demoralizing to journalists as it is for communities to solely focus on problems. Over the course of the next year, newsrooms in the Solutions Journalism Network and Indigenous Journalism Association’s Health Equity Initiative are deepening their understanding of solutions journalism, using these skills to report meaningful health coverage for and with their communities. Journalists from the initiative share how they are reporting differently on topics such as gaps in maternal health care access, the opioid and fentanyl epidemic, clean water access, food sovereignty, and intersection of climate change and health.

8:00 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. The Power and Promise of Global Indigenous Collaborations | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Bryan Pollard (Cherokee), Tristan Ahtone (Kiowa), Editor at Large, Grist (USA), Eden Fineday (Cree), Publisher, IndigiNews (Canada), Karla Grant (Western Arrernte), Presenter, Journalist and Executive Producer, National Indigenous Television (Australia), Ku’uwehi Hiraishi, Reporter, Hawai’i Public Radio (Hawai’i), Blake Ihimaera, Director of News and Current Affairs, Whakaata Māori (New Zealand)

From multinational mining projects to colonial conservation schemes, Indigenous newsrooms around the world are working to report local stories involving global players and far-reaching, interrelated conflicts and crises. However, unlike the well-resourced, cross-border investigations and collaborations common at mainstream newsrooms, Indigenous journalists have had limited success with similar projects at that scale. Is there an opportunity for global collaboration between Indigenous journalists or Indigenous-led projects? What challenges do we face in sharing resources and content? Recognized leaders from Indigenous outlets bring an extraordinary range of experience from communities around the world to discuss.

8:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. How to Thrive as a Freelancer | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Katherine Reynolds Lewis, Jodi Rave Spotted Bear (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation / Lakota); Adreanna Rodriguez (Standing Rock Sioux); Joseph Lee (Aquinnah Wampanoag)

With mass layoffs and an unstable job market, more journalists are freelancing, out of need or by choice. This workshop will cover how to make it work! You’ll learn how to set your rate, network to find great assignments, build relationships with clients, juggle multiple gigs, and stay motivated. Panelists will discuss how to set an hourly rate, fund your work through grants and fellowships, and track projects and invoices to get paid. Participants will leave the session with a slew of new tools and strategies for becoming an emotionally and financially sustainable freelancer.

10:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Mental Health and Well-being in the Workplace: The Role of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Danyelle Wright, Amanda Enayati

Mental health and well-being are often stigmatized or complicated, especially in marginalized communities. This workshop aims to create healthy conversations about stress, anxiety, cardiovascular & health disparities, and dispense guidance on resources and support systems.

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. Tribal TV… It’s ALL That | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Darren Brown (Cochiti Pueblo / Choctaw)

The Cheyenne and Arapaho Television crew share what they’ve learned in their 12 years as Oklahoma’s only tribally owned and operated TV station. From powwows to puppets, and tripods to podcasts, CATV has created tools to help the station work toward its mission, and build itself into an essential part of the tribes’ presence.

10:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. q’sapi Teachings: Trauma-Informed and Culturally Aware Storytelling | Automobile Alley C

Presenters: Kelsie Kilawna (syilx and Secwepemc), Lauren Marchand (syilx and Secwepemc), Tum Marchand (syilx and Secwepemc)

This training session equips participants with essential tools and skills for handling sensitive stories with care and respect. We delve into immersive storytelling, syilx protocols for supporting the grieving, and the sacredness of sharing someone’s story (their medicine). You’ll gain insight into the spiritual impact of storytelling and learn to enact data sovereignty in your practice. You’ll discover how to ethically source stories, create safety plans for knowledge keepers, and practice self-care throughout the process. By the end, you’ll be prepared to navigate sensitive subjects with empathy and responsibility, both for the subjects and your audience.

12:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. Backgrounding Like a Boss Using Online, Offline and FOIA Resources | Automobile Alley A

Presenters: Francisco Vara-Orta, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Investigative Reporters & Editors

Even great reporters can get tricked by fake names or sketchy backgrounds. Investigative Reporters & Editors will walk through strategies you can use to create a routine and spot potential red flags before you get burned. We’ll talk about online tools to deepen reporting on a shorter turnaround, a broad introduction to using open records laws at the federal and state levels and checklists to dig into your story subjects.

11:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Thunderbird Rising / UNDRIP in Canada and USA: Upholding Press Freedom | Automobile Alley B

Presenters: Randy Way (Métis Nation), Jim Compton (Anishinaabe, Keeseekoose First Nation)

The governments of Canada and B.C., have adopted the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as their framework for reconciliation. But what does this mean for your organization and its work? Indigenous journalists have important roles to play in advancing UNDRIP. Join presenters for a discussion about Indigenous journalism in Canada followed by a 15-minute documentary, “Thunderbird Rising,” about how Indigenous organizations in one community are on a journey of learning and action to Indigenous rights. The screening will be followed by Q&A with the film’s director Jim Compton and a short update on UNDRIP developments in Canada.

5:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. IJA President’s Reception | Five Moons Prefunction
(open to all registered attendees)

Join IJA leadership and enjoy light refreshments and a cash bar during the IJA President’s Reception from 5-6 p.m., with President Christine Trudeau and the Board of Directors. Attendees will also get a sneak peek of the IJA Silent Auction.

6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. IJA Indigenous Media Awards Banquet + Silent Auction | Five Moons 4-8 (Ticketed event)

Celebrate culture and the outstanding coverage of Indigenous communities by IJA members during the 2024 Indigenous Media Awards Banquet. ICT Newscast anchor Aliyah Chavez (Kewa Pueblo) and Darren Brown (Cochiti Pueblo / Choctaw) will co-emcee the event where IJA will present the Richard LaCourse Award for Investigative Journalism to Mary Hudetz (Apsaalooke / Crow) and the Tim Giago Free Press Award to Brandi Morin (Cree / Iroquois / French). The Osage Singers, led by Scott George, will perform.

Attendees can shop for Indigenous art, clothing, jewelry and unique items during the IJA Silent Auction, which will run throughout the evening. Donated items can be previewed here. Conference attendees may donate auction items in-person at the registration desk during daily conference hours. Donors will need to complete the Silent Auction Donation Form. All funds raised through the auction benefit annual IJA scholarships.