As we move into a new phase of the pandemic and into a new world of public health, we take time to reflect on the grief, joy, fear, confusion, and resilience experienced since the emergence of COVID-19. The changes experienced in these last two years have been sudden and, many times, frightening. But, again and again, we saw Indian Country rise to the occasion. In the spirit of community and love, we saw Indian Country assist Indigenous and non-Indigenous people alike- without the expectation of anything in return. By offering services to tribal and non-tribal members, healthier communities were and are being built.

Dear 2022 honored guests and attendees, 

Our Tribal Public Health Conference 2022 theme, “Community: Rising to a Changing Public Climate,” aptly describes our experiences living through a global pandemic. For the past two years, our tribal communities have had to adapt, adjust, and rise to the challenges of a constantly changing public health climate brought about by the pandemic; yet the challenges presented opportunities for serving in innovative and creative ways. The challenges also provided opportunities to listen to our communities and respond to their needs. We at Southern Plains Tribal Health Board have had to do the same. We have been adapting, adjusting, listening, and responding, so we can continue to serve our tribal communities and partners in ways consistent with our core values of servant leadership, accountability, respect, innovation, excellence, and integrity.