The essence of Native cultures is manifested through acts of giving. As an expression of their cultures and in honoring the principle of generosity, Native peoples give to honor, celebrate, and show their responsibility towards family members, friends and community. This year, during our 30th Anniversary Summit & Celebration held in Chicago, Native Americans in Philanthropy honored several individuals who have embodied this principle in different ways through their leadership, commitment and hard work as advocates for Native peoples.
Flying Eagle Woman Award - Winona LaDuke (White Earth Band of Ojibwe), Honor The Earth
The Flying Eagle Woman Award was initiated in response to the loss of (O’Peqyaw-Metamoh) Ingrid Washinawatok El-Issa. O’Peqyaw-Metamoh was an internationally known humanitarian who worked to further Native peoples’ rights, Native women’s issues, sovereignty, and human rights throughout the world. She also served as Board Chair of Native Americans in Philanthropy.
Louis T. Delgado Distinguished Grantmaker Award - Tia Oros Peters (Zuni), Seventh Generation Fund
The Louis T. Delgado Distinguished Grantmaker Award was established in honor of Board Member emeritus Louis T. Delgado. Mr. Delgado currently serves as an independent consultant to foundations and nonprofit organizations. The Award was established in recognition of the tenacity and power that Mr. Delgado has brought to the field of philanthropy and his commitment to bridging knowledge between philanthropy and Native communities.
The nominee for the Louis T. Delgado Distinguished Grantmaker Award must fulfill the criteria of understanding and advancing the role of philanthropy between Native Native communities and mainstream philanthropy.
Woman Warrior Award - Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), U.S. Representative from New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District
Native Americans in Philanthropy recognizes an individual woman who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to uplifting the voices of Native Americans through their leadership.
This year, we are excited to honor Deb Haaland with the Woman Warrior Award for her fierce leadership and allyship in uplifting the voices of Native Americans. Deb has been a warrior for Native people in Congress and beyond. We are so proud of her and are beyond excited to give her this award.
#GenerationIndigenous Award - Erik Stegman (Carry the Kettle Nation), Aspen Institute’s Center for Native American Youth
Native Americans in Philanthropy is giving the #Generation Indigenous Award to individuals to acknowledge the amazing, unrelenting work to support and uplift Native American youth. Individuals with a vision and heart for Native young people who are impacting their lives across the nation.