Vice President Kamala Harris addresses the National Congress of American Indians on October 12, 2021.

NCAI, the nation’s largest inter-tribal advocacy organization, is hosting its 78th annual convention this week. Tribal leaders are meeting virtually to hear from top officials from President Joe Biden’s administration and key members of Congress.

“This week, tribal leaders, policymakers, and partners will gather to bring light to vital issues facing our communities,” said NCAI President Fawn Sharp. “We look forward to hearing from Vice President Harris and other key decision-makers as we work together to strengthen government-to-government relationships, and to advance Indian Country’s priorities during our annual convention.”

Harris is scheduled to speak at approximately 11:35am Eastern. She is the first sitting vice president since Democrat Al Gore to address NCAI, which formed in 1944 to protect tribal rights and address threats to tribal sovereignty.