Federal Policy, Advocacy, Partnerships & Action

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Networking Breakfast

9:30 AM – 9:40 AM
Welcome
Mary Jane Oatman

9:40-10:00 AM
Morning Keynote: Cannabis as Indigenous Medicine
A conversation about cannabis, healing, and the growing recognition of its therapeutic potential. Steph Sherer will explore the evolution of cannabis as medicine, the role of patient advocacy and research, and the opportunities for Indigenous communities to shape the future of cannabis-based healthcare while honoring traditional knowledge and Tribal sovereignty.

Steph Sherer, Executive Director, Americans for Safe Access

Speakers:

• Steph Sherer - Executive Director, Americans for Safe Access

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Federal Tribal Cannabis Policy Update - Moderator: Morgan Fox - NORML
The federal landscape for Tribal cannabis and hemp is evolving rapidly. This timely policy discussion will examine the latest developments in Congress, DEA scheduling, USDA Tribal hemp programs, FDA oversight, Indian Health Service considerations, Treasury guidance, cannabis banking, tax reform, and other federal policies affecting Tribal Nations. Panelists will translate these developments into practical implications for Tribal governments and enterprises and identify opportunities for Tribes to engage directly with federal agencies and policymakers.

Speakers:

• Samantha Skenandore

• Judge Mary Celeste 

• Cat Packer - DPA

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Building National Coalitions & Capitol Hill Advocacy Workshop - Moderator: Michael Decorah - St. Croix Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs
Effective advocacy requires more than a strong policy position—it requires relationships, coordination, and a clear strategy. This interactive workshop will provide Tribal leaders and advocates with practical tools for building national coalitions, developing shared policy priorities, engaging congressional offices, and communicating effectively with policymakers. Participants will leave with strategies they can use to strengthen Tribal voices in Washington and build broader support for Tribal priorities.

Speakers:

• Kebra Smith Bolden, LIT New Haven and Supernova Women

• Chelsea Higgs Wise, Marijuana Justice 

• Cat Packer, Drug Policy Alliance 

• Michael Lomuto, Minority Cannabis Business Association

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Capitol Hill Strategy Session
A hands-on strategy session focused on turning Tribal priorities into federal action. Participants will examine how to prepare for congressional meetings, identify key decision-makers, develop effective talking points, coordinate with Tribal and industry partners, and build momentum beyond a single Hill visit. The session will focus on practical strategies for maximizing Tribal influence and advancing legislative and regulatory priorities.

Speakers:

• Mary Jane Oatman

• Rob Pero

• Gillian Schauer - CANNRA Executive Director

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Networking Lunch
 

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Intertribal Trade & Economic Partnerships
The future of Tribal cannabis may depend not only on individual Tribal enterprises, but on the strength of the relationships between them. This session will explore opportunities for intertribal trade, shared infrastructure, strategic partnerships, regional supply chains, joint ventures, and other models for Tribal-to-Tribal economic collaboration. Panelists will discuss how Tribes can work together to build stronger markets, retain economic value within Indian Country, and create opportunities that individual enterprises may not be able to achieve alone.

Speakers:

• Tim Gordon - Anang 

• Ross John - Seneca

• Leslie Powless - ICGA

• Bergal Mitchell - First Nations Trade

• Native Law Group

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The Federal Hemp Ban: What Comes Next? - Moderator: Hunter Buffington

This panel will examine the proposed federal hemp ban and its potential impact on the rapidly evolving hemp industry. Panelists will explore the policy and legal changes behind the ban, what they could mean for hemp-derived products and businesses, and how the new framework may affect consumers, farmers, manufacturers, retailers, and state regulators.​

Speakers:

• Beau Whitney - Whitney Economics

4:00-5:00 PM

Tribal Regulatory Innovation - Moderator: Cat Packer

Tribes have an opportunity to build regulatory systems that reflect their unique governmental authority, community priorities, and economic goals. This session will showcase innovative approaches to Tribal cannabis regulation, including licensing, compliance, public safety, testing, taxation, enforcement, and market development. Panelists will share lessons from Tribal regulatory programs and explore how Tribes can create effective frameworks that support both responsible industry growth and Tribal sovereignty.

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5:00-5:30 PM

Summit Closing Session

7:00-9:00 PM
AWARDS RECEPTION

• Advocate of the Year

• Ally of the Year

• Brand of the Year

• Tribal Enterprise of the Year

• Gary Farmer Troublemaker Award

• ICIA Lifetime Achievement Award