Resolute. Humble.

We must organize to provide a properly instituted organization to host Indian Tribes from different states that visit to conduct prayer services when enroute to and from the Peyote Gardens, . . .and to be part of local, regional and national efforts to protect the Medicine and ceremonial ways.
~ Frankie Dayish

Resolute. Humble.
By Joy Avila | February 24, 2025
Contributing Writer

NAC-SNM Next Gen extends gratitude to NACNA President Jon Brady and Mrs. Rebecca Brady for their generosity of words, actions, and prayer. On Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the 2025 NACNA Mid-Year Meeting held in Rio Grande City, Texas, standing with Hazel Dayish in fellowship they uplifted her with prayer and song.

Rebecca commented that Hazel is an inspiration to all of us. President Brady’s encouragement noted that her resilience embodies the NAC tenants of Faith, Love, Hope & Charity. He said, “Hazel is living by the many prayers despite the hardships of life.”

My Grandparents’ Story. Frankie and Hazel Dayish have had at least five (5) decades of experience with and in support of the NACNA. They co-founded NAC-State of New Mexico in 1981 and represented NAC-SNM as Convention Delegates at the 32nd Annual NACNA Conference in Rapid City, South Dakota.

However, their NAC relationships and friendships extend back to the early 1970’s. They traveled many times to Oklahoma Indian territory to sit and pray with tribal NAC relatives. They traveled across the United States to attend NACNA Mid-Year and Quarterly Meetings and Annual Conferences hosted by tribal NAC communities. They served as a Delegate-at-Large for New Mexico and Convention Delegates for many years.

They extended support by attending and participating in NAC organization’s business meetings locally as well as business meetings of Cheyenne Chapter No. 1.

Most recently, my children and I had the opportunity to travel to Oklahoma and join in the renewal and appreciation of the friendships they established so long ago. I gained invaluable insight into the power of fellowship and felt a sense of humility experiencing the reciprocity of support between families and tribal Nations.

Gratitude. The goal of NAC-SNM is to keep the idea my grandparent’s planted and nurtured vibrant and alive. Forty four (44) years after attending a NACNA conference as “Affiliated Chapter Convention Delegates,” their teachings endure.

Their grandson serves as the NACNA Delegate-at-Large for New Mexico, their son sits on the NACNA executive committee, and their children and family relative lead the state organization they founded. We appreciate NAC-SNM treasurer Glen Scott, who has served in that capacity since NAC-SNM’s inception.

I am certain that across Indian Country, families and NAC fireplaces have stories like my grandparents’ story. Let’s pause and reflect on those who have contributed to the NAC community in years past and in contemporary times.

It is indeed a crucial time for the NAC community as we continue the work for Traditional Medicine Security and Federal Preemption protections enshrined in the AIRFA 1994 Amendments.

The presence of elders such as Terry Knight (Ute Mountain Ute), Melvin and Shrana George (Euchee and Navajo), and Roderick and Angie Sweezy (Arapaho and Navajo) at the NACNA Mid-Year and subsequent ceremony in Mirando City emboldens the NAC community with strength, knowledge, and oral teachings. Their voices are essential as we approach the 50^th Anniversary of AIRFA 1978.

Forever grateful. We stand on their shoulders.