The National Congress of American Indians kicks off its 63rd annual conference in Sacramento, California, today.

Thousands of tribal leaders and tribal members are expected for the meeting. This year's theme is "Building Self Sufficient Nations: Connecting Community & Culture."

"These meetings are historic, in the sense that they culminate in a week's worth of indispensable knowledge and action plans that will benefit Indian people for generations," said NCAI President Joe Garcia.

Today, Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne addresses the delegates in the morning. A discussion on the Cobell settlement takes place this afternoon.

Tuesday morning, the general assembly focuses on law enforcement and justice issues. Breakout sessions on a number of topics will be held in the afternoon.

Wednesday is dedicated to health, with the 4th annual health and fitness walk right before noon. More sessions will be held in the afternoon.

The gala banquet is Wednesday night.

On Thursday, NCAI will hear from Carl Artman, President Bush's pick to head the Bureau of Indian Affairs. After issue updates in the afternoon, California tribes host a cultural night.

The conference concludes Friday morning.

Relevant Links:
National Congress of American Indians - http://www.ncai.org

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