2025 Women Are Sacred Conference

Women are sacred 2025 logo with information about the conference below. July 29-31 in milwaukee, wisconsin

The National Indigenous Women's Resource Center is thrilled to announce the 2025 Women Are Sacred (WAS) Conference will take place July 29-31, 2025, at the Baird Convention Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin! One of the nation’s most inspiring and impactful gatherings, the Women Are Sacred Conference is a cornerstone in the movement to end violence against Native women and children. This powerful event brings together advocates, survivors, Tribal domestic and sexual violence programs, Tribal leadership, law enforcement, and Tribal court personnel—all united in the shared mission of creating safer, stronger Tribal communities.

 

Under this year's theme, "Committed to Our Relatives: Tradition in Our Hearts, Future in Our Hands," attendees will experience transformative training sessions, engage in meaningful networking opportunities, and learn from some of the most respected leaders, advocates, and experts driving change in Indian Country. 

 

Register Now

 

As of May 29, 2025, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has confirmed that grantees under the following programs are authorized to use grant funds to attend the 2025 Women Are Sacred Conference without submitting a Grant Award Modification (GAM) in JustGrants:

  • Tribal Governments Program

  • Tribal Jurisdictions Program

  • Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program

  • Tribal SAUSA Program

  • Tribal Coalitions Program

 

Grantees may support registration and travel costs for up to two (2) individuals using their OVW grant funds. Please ensure that sufficient travel funds are available in your approved budget and retain a copy of this notice in your grant file for audit purposes. This prior approval was shared with OVW Tribal Affairs Grant Managers on May 29, 2025, and may be referenced as needed.

About the Women Are Sacred Conference

Every two years, NIWRC proudly hosts the Women Are Sacred (WAS) Conference, one of the largest gatherings of advocates, survivors, Tribal domestic and sexual violence programs, Tribal community members, Tribal leadership, law enforcement, and Tribal court personnel dedicated to ending violence against Native American women and communities. WAS offers state-of-the-art training and networking opportunities designed to increase the capacity of Tribal Nations, Tribal domestic violence, and community-based programs to address violence in Tribal communities.

Committed to Our Relatives: Tradition in Our Hearts, Future in Our Hands 

This year’s theme, “Committed to Our Relatives: Tradition in Our Hearts, Future in Our Hands,” reflects the heart of NIWRC’s mission: honoring the sacred role of Native women as changemakers and protectors in leading efforts to build safer, stronger Tribal communities.

 

In a changing world, we draw strength from our traditions and reaffirm our commitments as relatives. As the world shifts, we respond with integrity, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to one another that has defined us for generations.

 

Through expert-led sessions, events, and deep connections, WAS attendees will gain tools to strengthen Tribal programs and create lasting change. Together, we will honor our traditions, advance the movement for healing and justice, and reaffirm our shared mission to restore safety and sovereignty for Native women and communities throughout Indian Country.

 

We are stronger together.

NIWRC is committed to co-creating a safe and healthy WAS 2025 by encouraging practices that help prevent the spread of airborne illness. This includes free testing (COVID-19, Flu A & B), masking, air filtration, and hand sanitizing stations throughout the space. Rooted in a Community of Care, we recognize our shared responsibility to protect one another and return home safely to our families and communities. New this year, we’re launching a Community Care Raffle to thank attendees who commit to masking or daily testing—just show your test result or mask up to participate. Together, we can support wellness, accessibility, and community safety.

Registration is Now Open

Registration is now open for the 2025 Women Are Sacred Conference, taking place July 29–31, 2025, at the Baird Convention Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. To register, please select the appropriate registration option below:

Agenda is Now Available

Please note this is a working draft and may be updated as additional details are confirmed. We encourage you to check back for the most up-to-date information.

 

View the Agenda

Hotel Options for Conference Attendees

NIWRC has secured a primary room block for the 2025 Women Are Sacred Conference at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, which is directly connected to the Baird Convention Center. This full-service hotel is located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee and offers modern rooms, onsite dining, and easy access to the RiverWalk, local attractions, and public transit.

 

Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
Rate: $192/night
Address: 333 West Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: (414) 276-1234
Email: concierge@hyatt.com
Distance from Venue: Connected to the Baird Convention Center


Book Your Room

Exhibitor registration for the 2025 Women Are Sacred Conference is officially open! We invite partners, organizations, and artisans to join us in creating an engaging, meaningful exhibitor experience. To secure your space and participate as an exhibitor, please complete the Exhibitor Registration Form 1. Booths are limited and assigned on a rolling basis following the close of registration.

Register Now

 

As part of the 2025 Women Are Sacred Conference, NIWRC invites you to gather in celebration and community at the Celebrating All Things Feminine Powwow held on Tuesday, July 30. This evening event is open to all and honors the power, beauty, and spirit of those who carry and express feminine strength in its many forms. The evening will also feature a special event in our Threads of Community Regalia Parade, a moment to honor the meaning behind what we wear and where we come from. Be a part of a joyful night rooted in culture, visibility, and community.

 

Date: Wednesday, July 30

Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Location: Baird Convention Center • Ballroom DEFG

 

Sign up for the Parade

Questions about the 2025 Women Are Sacred Conference? Contact us.