The US Indigenous Games will be held Summer 2011
Formerly known as the North American Indigenous Games, that take place every three years, Milwaukee will be the launch site for the US Indigenous Games on July 10 – 14, 2011.
Games will occur at prominent sports venues in and around the city. Cultural Activities and athlete housing will be located near the city’s downtown area.
Thousands of athletes, primarily young people, will be participating in the competitions, making the U.S. Indigenous Games the largest event to host competitions for young Native youth across Indian Country. The Games also include 500 Competition staff, coaches and officials. Sporting events range from; basketball, baseball, volleyball, and golf to boxing, swimming, lacrosse, and tae kwon do.
Events of the Games include Opening ceremonies to be held on July 10th and Closing ceremonies on July 14th. Opening ceremonies promise to please participants and spectators with ceremonial protocol and pageantry, Native American dance and music, and a parade of athletes. While Closing ceremonies include recognition and awards, a special media presentation and live entertainment.
In addition, to the sporting events, a Cultural Village will be held July 11-14. Cultural activities associated with the Games include artwork, entertainment and spiritual activity among the athletes and attendees.
The 2011 US Indigenous Games will be hosted by the 11 tribes located throughout Wisconsin. Their leadership and support are instrumental to the success of the Games. These sovereign tribes know the importance and value of supporting a healthy life style and choices for Native youth. “Our young people are not only the leaders of the future, they are leaders of today”, said Harold (Gus) Frank, Forest County Potawatomi Chairman and President of the Indigenous Games, USA Inc.