When the Maricopa County Community College District canceled all DEI-related graduation ceremonies, including the American Indian Convocation, many Indigenous students were left without a space to celebrate their academic achievements.

But the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community stepped in.

In this episode of the O’odham Action News Podcast, we reflect on the powerful 2025 American Indian Convocation hosted at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Through archival audio, graduate reflections, and words from leaders like SRPMIC President Martin Harvier and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, we highlight how one tribal community turned disappointment into unity, celebration, and hope.

This is more than a recap, it’s a reminder that Indigenous students matter, and their journeys will always be celebrated.

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OAN Connects Episode 13