The Gathering of Nations and Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce (AHCC) are seeking a new venue for the world’s largest powwow after the University of New Mexico cut ties with the event last week.
The 33rd annual gathering concluded April 30 at The Pit, in Albuquerque, its longtime home. On Wednesday, UNM Executive Vice President sent a letter to the event’s organizer stating the school would no longer be able to accommodate the gathering, a decision he stated was financial and operational.
Organizers and the AHCC had harsh words for UNM in a joint statement issued Thursday, in which they stated they were ready to relocate to a venue “with partners who share our goals and values, and support our traditions and cultures.”
The Gathering of Nations brings an estimated 80,000 – 100,000 people annually to Albuquerque, who contribute an estimated $23 million to the city’s economy.
“After contributing hundreds of millions of dollars to the Albuquerque economy, impacting millions of lives and generations, and tribes from five continents, we’re appalled at the disrespect and disregard from the university,” said Gathering of Nations founder Derek Mathews. “The Gathering of Nations and the AHCC, along with Mayor Richard J. Berry, encourage the entire community to come out and support New Mexico’s largest cultural event, as it has such an important cultural, economic and historic impact on Albuquerque and native peoples from around the globe.”
The AHCC and Gathering of Nations say they are engaged in discussions with potential partners
