Southeast Native Studies Conference at UNC Pembroke

Registration is now open for the 21st annual Dr. Linda E. Oxendine Southeast Native Studies Conference (SNSC) at UNC Pembroke!  The SNSC will be held March 19-20, 2026, in Thomas Hall, Room 225.

The SNSC provides a forum for discussion of the cultures, histories, and contemporary experiences of Native Americans in the Southeast United States. Held annually since 2005, the SNSC is the only national conference dedicated solely to the unique histories and cultures of Southeastern Native Americans.

Wednesday, March 18

• Conference attendees are invited to join this evening of relaxed conversation, with complementary dinner provided. This will be an opportunity to meet other attendees, share ideas, and discuss happenings in Southeastern Native communities.

Thursday, March 19

• Keynote Dr. Elizabeth Ellis (Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma) and Associate Professor of History at Princeton University will discuss her book, The Great Power of Small Nations: Indigenous Diplomacy in the Gulf South (2022), published by The University of Pennsylvania Press.

Friday, March 20

• A panel of leaders from tribal nations and state government in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Viriginia will participate in a roundtable discussion around topics that are priorities to tribal communities such as sovereignty, cultural revitalization, and community well-being.
• The Museum of the Southeast American Indian at UNC Pembroke will host a showing of the documentary film, Life by the River. The documentary includes interviews and conversations featuring members of North and South Carolina tribes discussing their tribe’s relationship to local waterways and rivers.

Saturday, March 21

• The BraveNation Powwow and Gathering will be held from 12 to 6 p.m. in the main gym of the Jones Athletic Center. To learn more about the powwow, visit https://www.uncp.edu/powwow.

Travel grants are available for students, see the website for application material.