Join us for a transformative experience as we honor Indigenous traditional knowledge
and inspire sustainable solutions for a thriving San Diego!
In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, San Diego Sister Cities proudly presents the Indigenous Heritage Week & Sustainable Design Forum. Join us for a series of extraordinary international events bringing together global Indigenous leaders from the USA, Mexico, Kenya, Australia, Brazil, Japan, and beyond. Engage in insightful panel discussions, experience authentic cultural entertainment, explore art exhibitions, shop at an Indigenous bazaar, and enjoy Indigenous foods, film screenings, virtual reality, and more— Inspiring innovative ideas to shape a more sustainable future for San Diego.
Meet Our Speakers
Join us for inspiring panel discussions with Indigenous leaders from around the world! Discover diverse perspectives on sustainability, culture, and ecological health. Connect with indigenous thought leaders from the US, Kenya, Brazil, Japan, Panama, and beyond.
Panel Discussions
Participants will engage in dynamic Panel Discussions featuring Indigenous cultural leaders from around the globe, fostering dialogue and learning to inspire and inform San Diego’s community on sustainability. These discussions, hosted by the Kumeyaay in San Diego and Tijuana, include Indigenous leaders from Kenya, Japan, Panama, Australia, Brazil, and other regions. Covering topics such as ecological health, welfare, art, culture, and resource sustainability, these panels offer diverse perspectives and practical insights to promote sustainable practices locally in San Diego.
Harness Indigenous Knowledge
Harness Indigenous Knowledge
Essential for Achieving the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals
Environmental Education
Our Environmental Education program collaborates with esteemed academic institutions such as the University of California San Diego and San Diego State University to engage students in learning about Indigenous sustainability practices in San Diego.
We will provide engaging educational programming featuring Indigenous leaders on campus, enriching participants’ understanding of environmental issues and solutions.
Enjoy an international forum uniting Indigenous leaders from the USA, Kenya, Australia, Brazil, Japan, and beyond
Enjoy a workshop on traditional reed boat building and ocean conservation
Experience a unique and culturally enriching yoga session with the Maasai, where you'll learn ancient healing practices passed down through generations.
Indigenous Heritage Week Program
November 21, 2024
4:00 - 9:00
UC San Diego Park & Market
1100 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101November 24, 2024
10:30AM
WorldBeat Cultural Center in Balboa Park
2100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Immersive Cultural Workshops
Immersive Cultural Workshops, in collaboration with stakeholders across San Diego County, offer diverse activities. From wildlife management to coral reef restoration participants engage in hands-on experiences deepening environmental stewardship.
Special sessions with the Kumeyaay community provide a unique indigenous perspective. Highlights include constructing Tule boats and immersive workshops on cultural practices and sustainability.
Plan your stay at THE US GRANT
Official Hotel for Sister Cities Indigenous Heritage Week: The US Grant Hotel
We are pleased to announce The US Grant Hotel as the official hotel for Sister Cities Indigenous Heritage Week, taking place in November 2024. Nestled in the heart of downtown San Diego near the historic Gaslamp Quarter, The US Grant Hotel has been a symbol of quiet luxury and sophistication for over 100 years. With iconic nearby attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Petco Park, and Balboa Park, the hotel offers the perfect location for your San Diego adventure. Enjoy AAA/CAA Four Diamond dining at the Grant Grill, unwind with a cocktail at the bar, and explore the hotel’s rich history, including its unique venues, one of which was a former Prohibition-era speakeasy.
Reserve your room at the special rate of $289 per night plus taxes for single or double occupancy. You may also call the Marriott Luxury Brand reservations at (866) 837-4270 and ask for assistance in booking the Sister Cities Indigenous Heritage Week in November 2024. Book a hotel room prior to October 31, 2024. Room cancellation policy is to cancel 72 hours prior to the booked arrival date. Current Valet parking is $65/day, subject to change. We do not offer self-parking. Check-in time is 4pm; Check Out time is: 12pm. Additional contracted fee is a Housekeeping Gratuity of $5 per day. We look forward to welcoming you to the historical US Grant Hotel!
Become a Vendor
We are excited to invite artisans, crafters, and businesses to become vendors at the upcoming Indigenous Forum. This event celebrates the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Indigenous communities from around the world. By becoming a vendor, you will have the opportunity to showcase your unique products and services to a diverse and engaged audience.
Event Sponsors & Community Collaborators
