Oklahoma City Indian Clinic’s (OKCIC) signature fundraising event returned last fall with purpose, heart, and a powerful impact. The 21st Annual Red Feather Gala, held November 1, 2025, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, brought together community members, partners, and supporters for an evening dedicated to improving vision care for American Indian patients. By the end of the night, $150,000 had been raised to help provide eyeglasses for more than 1,000 patients in need.
Vision is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline.
While eyeglasses may seem like a small thing, their impact can be life changing. Clear vision affects nearly every part of daily life, from a child’s ability to learn in the classroom, to a job seeker’s confidence during an interview, to an elder’s independence at home. For many American Indian families, cost and access remain significant barriers to vision care. The Red Feather Gala’s goal this year was to help close that gap, turning generosity into something tangible that patients can carry with them every day.
An Evening of Celebration & Purpose
The evening celebrated culture, creativity and community. Guests were welcomed with live Native flute music by Terry Tsotigh of the Kiowa Tribe and enjoyed photo booths, a grass dance exhibition, and a lively silent and live auction. Hosted by Joleen Chaney of KFOR alongside Ace Greenwood of the Chickasaw Nation, the gala balanced celebration with purpose. A highlight of the night featured local artists creating original works in real time. Brent Greenwood, of the Chickasaw Nation and Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma, painted a striking piece during the event, while metalsmith Taylor Martin, of the Chickasaw Nation and Seminole Nation, crafted a custom cuff and pendant.
Spirit of the Urban Indian Honoree
A special moment of the night included the presentation of the Spirit of the Urban Indian Honor to the Honorable Bill Anoatubby, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation. The award recognized his longstanding support of OKCIC and his broader contributions to Native communities. Since being elected governor in 1987, his leadership has helped grow the Chickasaw Nation into an organization of more than 15,000 employees, offering over 400 programs and services focused on education, health care, housing and community development.
Red Feather Gala’s Lasting Impact on the Native Community
For more than two decades, the Red Feather Gala has been one of OKCIC’s most impactful annual fundraisers, supporting programs that directly improve patient care and quality of life. Each year, the event serves as a reminder that when a community comes together with a shared goal, meaningful change is possible.
