Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC) was excited to welcome guests to an in-person gala after two years of being unable to due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 18th Annual Red Feather Gala was held on Saturday, November 5, 2022, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center.
The gala was held during the first weekend of Native American Heritage Month, which is observed every November to celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions of Native people. The event, emceed by KFOR’s Ali Meyer and Joleen Chaney, helped OKCIC raise funds to provide hearing aids to patients. Nearly 600 people attended the event, including tribal nations and dignitaries from across Oklahoma.
“We are thankful for the generous contributions we received,” said Robyn Sunday-Allen, OKCIC’s Chief Executive Officer. “Many of our patients face difficulties receiving treatment for hearing loss due to the limited access and high cost. Giving our patients their hearing back can improve their mental health and quality of life.”
Carmelita Skeeter received the Spirit of the Urban Indian honor for her lifelong commitment to American Indian health care. Skeeter, a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, began her career at the Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa (IHCRC) in 1976 as one of their original four employees. During her tenure with IHCRC, Skeeter has worn many hats, including Clinic Administrator and, since 1989, Chief Executive Officer. She has been recognized numerous times for her tireless efforts to ensure quality, accessible and comprehensive health care to Tulsa’s Native people.
OKCIC also welcomed Lane Factor as a special guest. Factor is known for his role as Cheese in the television series “Reservation Dogs.”
The Red Feather Gala is “the most fun you will have at a formal event,” and there was no shortage of entertainment throughout the evening. Guests participated in a Friendship Dance performed by the Central Plains Dancers, bid on silent auction items and were entertained by Choctaw artist Dylan Cavin during a live painting exhibition. Cavin’s painting, along with a handmade jingle dress, electric bike and more, were sold during the exciting live auction portion of the event.
