6th Annual Statewide Tribal Veteran Symposium

The Statewide Tribal Veteran Symposium is designed to provide a culturally safe and supportive environment where tribal veterans and their families can come together on tribal land. This event offers education on veterans’ benefits, healthcare, and holistic support for well-being, as veterans transition and have transitioned from miliary service back into their traditional and Western ways of life. Recognizing the unique challenges tribal veterans face, especially in accessing VA healthcare, the symposium provides and inclusive space for healing and community engagement, promoting a sense of belonging and respect for cultural traditions.

With a focus on culturally responsive services, the symposium integrates VBA claims clinic, VA services, and alternative non-VA care options to ensure that veterans, particularly those in rural and underserved tribal communities, have access to the resource they need. Given that Native American and Alaskan Native population have the highest per capita rates of military service, this event acknowledges the significant contributions of tribal veterans and strives to address the barriers they often encounter in accessing care.

By including traditional practices, the symposium fosters healing, connection, and sincere engagement between veterans, their families, and service providers. Arizona, home to one of the highest populations of American Indian and Alaskan Native veterans, provides a fitting backdrop for this gathering, ensuring that veterans and their families feel welcomed, supported, and empowered as they continue their journey post service.

We will be hosting a VBA Claims Clinic and Enrollment & Eligibility Clinic to assit veterans with accessing their benefits. Veterans will have the opportunity to file claims, check the status of existing claims, and receive assistance with enrolllment for VA healthcare services. To ensure a smooth process, veterans are encouraged to bring their DD-214 and a valid ID. This is a valuable opportunity for tribal veterans to get the support they need and connect with VA resources directly.

LODGING

Thank you for your interest in attending the 6th Annual Statewide Tribal Vetdran Symposium, We are please to inform you that we have secured rooms at the Wild Horse Pass Casino Resort. You can reserve a room by clicking the link https://reservations.travelclick.com/75936?groupID=4022563 or by calling the hotel directly at 1-800-946-4452, x.4900, or locally at (520) 796-4900. Please reference "Veteran Tribal Symposium" when making your reservation.

The group rate is $209 plus tax per night, available until Octoer 15th. A one-night deposit is reqired.

If you are unable to stay onsite, additional hotels are available in the area. You may consider the Best Western Plus Chandler Hotel and Suites or the Comfort Inn Chandler Phoenix South wich are about 1 - 2 mo;es away and offer lower room rates.

We thank you again for your support and look forward to seing you soon.

Host or Publisher BCBSAZ Health Choice Arizona Tribal Program