The Heart of the Gathering

Honor Our Elders is an annual community gathering hosted by the Intertribal Community Council of Texas (ICCT).  This event centers on gratitude, respect, and cultural continuity. It recognizes the wisdom, leadership, and lived experiences of American Indian elders who have carried our stories, traditions, and strength across generations. The gathering provides a shared meal, gifts, cultural activities, and time for connection.

Elders hold a central place in many Native American communities. They are teachers, storytellers, knowledge keepers, and leaders. Honoring them is not just tradition: It is responsibility, reciprocity, and love. This event creates space for cultural connection, community healing, and intergenerational learning.

American Indian elders wrapped in blankets during an ICCT community event.

Spotlights

American Indian elder wrapped in blanket during ICCT community event.

Elder Sharon Cornwell

A moment of connection between generations, reflecting the heart of why this event matters: Honoring those who guide us, nurturing those who will carry our traditions forward.

American Indian elders gathered beneath a sign labeled ‘Seniors’ at an ICCT event.

Honored Elders

Elders from across the DFW community gather to share stories, receive gifts, and enjoy a meal in their honor.

Photo of founder Nina Taylor.

Founder Nina Taylor

In 2019, Nina Taylor put her heart into the first Honor Our Elders ceremony to recognize beloved elders in our DFW area.

Event Details

Opening Prayer & Welcome

A community gathering to open the event by host Nina Taylor, featuring a traditional prayer and welcome address.

Gifts & Honoring Ceremony

Elders will be recognized and honored through a ceremony that includes the distribution of thoughtful gifts made possible through the community and donations. This moment centers on gratitude and acknowledges the leadership and wisdom of our elders.

Shared Meal

A catered meal is shared with all attendees, offering time for conversation, connection, and community building. This meal is provided through the generosity of donors and supporters.

Closing Prayer & Acknowledgments

The event concludes with a closing prayer and acknowledgments for elders, volunteers, donors, and community partners. This final moment brings the event full circle with gratitude and reflection.

Community Time

Attendees are invited to stay and engage in informal community time, fostering connections and conversations among participants.

ICCT volunteers wearing matching shirts while assisting at a community event.

Support the Event

Your support helps ICCT provide meal, gifts, and community programming for Native American elders across the DFW area. Every contribution makes a meaningful difference. Our goal is to raise the full $8,000 it costs to provide this event!

Donate to Support Our Elders