National Tribal Tobacco Conference
June 23 – 24, 2026
Minneapolis, MN
Pre-Event: National Indigenous Youth Fashion Show
June 22, 2026
7:00 – 9:00 PM
McNamara Alumni Center
200 SE Oak St
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Join us at the National Tribal Tobacco Conference on June 23-24, 2026 at the University of Minnesota.
This conference will address the traditional uses of tobacco and commercial tobacco impact in American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities across the United States. A disparate proportion of AI/AN communities use commercial tobacco compared to other racial/ethnic groups in the United States. High prevalences of commercial tobacco use among AI/AN Tribes are directly reflected in the disproportionate rates of chronic diseases in AI/AN populations. There is an urgent need to bring Tribes together at a national level to educate one another on successes and setbacks in commercial tobacco prevention and control among AI/ANs.
The conference will emphasize AI/AN persons returning to a healthy relationship with tobacco, the importance of creating health equity, and provide an opportunity for networking and collaboration.
We expect an audience composed of AI/AN community leaders, community members, healthcare providers serving these communities, researchers in tobacco and healthcare, students interested in public health and tobacco prevention/cessation. You belong here. All generations welcome.
Conference Details:
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Karina Walters [Will add information from Dr. Karina Walters here]
Join us for a pre-event National Indigenous Youth Fashion Show at the National Tribal Tobacco Conference, put on by Indigenous Peoples Task Force. Indigenous youth designers and models share stories of culture, creativity, and wellness, honoring traditional tobacco and Indigenous expression.
Registration Information
Registration is open and will close on June 12, 2026. The attendee rate for the conference is $100. You can add on a ticket to the National Indigenous Youth Fashion Show for $50.
Cancellation Policy
You may cancel your registration with a full refund until June 10, 2026. There is no refund available for no-shows.
Hotel Information
Room block details coming soon.
Parking Information
The nearest parking is available at the University Avenue Ramp (1926 University Ave SE) or Washington Avenue Ramp (501 Washington Ave SE) located nearest the McNamara Alumni Center.
There is additional parking in the Maroon Lot (2028 6th St SE) and Victory Lot (2302 6th Street SE).
View the University’s parking website for more details.
When we share ideas, experiences, and knowledge, we all benefit. In this spirit, we invite individuals to submit abstracts for consideration as an oral presentation, panel, workshop, or poster. Submissions should reflect research, community-based work, traditional knowledge, or innovative practices relevant to Tribal communities and tobacco, health, and healing.
Abstracts (150–200 words) should clearly describe the purpose of the session, key messages, and relevance to Tribal communities, including any data, community practices, traditional teachings, or lessons learned. Presenters will also be asked to identify topic areas, learning objectives, community or Tribal impact, and whether materials may be shared with attendees.
Abstracts are due by Friday, March 6, 2026 and will be reviewed by the planning committee on a rolling basis. If selected, the conference registration fee will be waived; however, travel support is not available.
If you have any questions, please contact traditionaltobacco@americanindiancancer.org.
When does registration open and close and what are the rates?
Registration opens in early February and closes on June 12, 2026. The in person attendee rate is $100.
What does my registration include?
Registration includes two days of in person attendance. You can also opt to add in the pre-event fashion show. Attendance also includes breakfast, lunch, and refreshments each day. Registration does not include travel, hotel, or parking. See parking details in the Registration Details box above.
Can I pay by check?
Yes, please contact our team at mccevents@umn.edu to register using a check. Check payments are not available after April 10, 2026.
Can I cancel my registration?
See the Registration Details box above.
Are CMEs or CEUs available?
We are not offering credit this year, but value your feedback as we continually improve.
How do I register for the pre-event National Indigenous Youth Fashion Show?
The fashion show, scheduled for June 22, 2026, can be added on to your conference registration.
Who is the artist?
Caitlin Newago created the National Tribal Tobacco Conference logo and artwork. You can learn more about Caitlin’s art by visiting her website.
Can I participate as a speaker or present a poster?
Please contact mccevents@umn.edu if you are interested in presenting a session. See poster submission details in the Poster and Display Information box above.
Questions? Contact mccevents@umn.edu
