Washington DC— National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (NATHPO), a national non-profit 501(c)(3) membership organization, founded in 1998, of tribal preservation leaders protecting culturally important places that perpetuate Native identity, resilience, and cultural endurance, is thrilled to announce its 21st National Tribal Preservation Conference will be held virtually on January 27 & 28, 2021. The conference theme is “Resilience in a Changing Environment.”
The unprecedented circumstances of 2020 resulted in the cancellation of the in-person National Tribal Preservation Conference and opened the opportunity to hold the event virtually. The organization recognized the need for connection within its membership and with the collective NATHPO mission. Registration for the conference has been strong; the virtual format enables tribes who would not otherwise be able to attend the opportunity to join the conference. NATHPO has worked with sponsors to offer conference registration at no cost to attendees, with special recognition for the host sponsor, the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana.
About the theme, Resilience in a Changing Environment – The significance of theme is two-fold, reflecting the growing challenges faced by tribal historic preservation leaders in adapting to and mitigating impacts to significant places from both a changing global climate and an altered political landscape. If our greatest opportunities come from our greatest challenges, how can we use this time to improve outcomes for tribal historic preservation?
About the virtual conference agenda – The virtual format of this year’s conference agenda will feature high-level informational and listening sessions presented in one-hour blocks. Walter Echo-Hawk will speak about the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Other presentations include topics ranging from tool kits and best practices for Tribal Historic Preservation Officers to listening forums that will enable NATHPO to provide solutions-focused programming in 2021 and beyond.
“This year’s virtual conference will be an opportunity for us to come together – safely – to learn from each other, as well as experts dedicated to supporting THPOs throughout the U.S.,” says Executive Director, Dr. Valerie Grussing. “Perhaps more importantly, our membership will be heard. NATHPO will be listening to what they need as we plan solutions-focused programming for 2021. Prepare to be reinvigorated as we celebrate the NEW NATHPO and its redefined dedication to our members.”
For more information about the conference – Those interested in more information about the 21st National Tribal Preservation Conference should visit the NATHPO website at https://www.nathpo.org/ and the 2021 Conference Registration page at https://www.nathpo.org/21st-national-tribal-preservation-conference/. For those interested in sponsoring NATHPO and the conference, information is located on the 2021 Conference Registration page.

About NATHPO

NATHPO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership association of tribal preservation leaders protecting culturally important places that perpetuate Native identity, resilience, and cultural endurance. Connections to cultural heritage sustain the health and vitality of Native peoples. We provide guidance to preservation officials, elected representatives, and the public about national historic preservation legislation, policies, and regulations. We promote tribal sovereignty, develop partnerships, and advocate for Tribes in governmental activities on preservation issues. For more information visit our website at www.nathpo.org.