Rooted in the Mountains Symposium

The 15th Annual Rooted in the Mountains Symposium

Thursday and Friday, September 25 and 26, 2025
Location: Bardo Arts Center on the Main Campus of Western Carolina University. 

This year’s theme, “Matrilineal Worldmaking (Vision of What’s Possible)”, honors the power of matrilineal societies, where kinship, inheritance, and identity are traced through the mother’s line. In the Kituwah language:
Di gi tsi/ de da li he li sdi sgv/ i de hv i
To acknowledge and give thanks to our mothers for our life/lives.

These visionary leaders will share insights on Indigenous knowledge, reproductive sovereignty, and the enduring strength of matrilineal traditions.

Featured Topic: Doula Training and the Historical Significance of Birth Supporters.

Evening Reception Meal (Thursday Evening): Available for the first 100 who select to register for this event during the registration process.