September 9, 2025, Kuwohi Connection

The Center for Native Health (CNH) is honored to host the 2025 Kuwohi Connection Days for fifth graders from surrounding schools. This event is held in partnership with several local organizations, including the National Park Service, EBCI Community Clubs, Museum of the Cherokee People, The Wilderness Society, NC Cooperative Extension, Friends of the Smokies, and the EBCI Tribal Council.

CNH’s mission is to support the balanced well-being of communities through the preservation and respectful application of Native knowledge to empower the people, land, and culture. This embodies the spirit of Kuwohi Connection Days, a truly special event that positively impacts everyone involved, from students to volunteers. Kuwohi Days exemplify healing from the land in action.

A highlight this year was the Kuwohi planning team’s ability to provide the EBCI community with time to experience this special place without tourists. It was particularly moving to see EBCI elders from Tsali Manor take a ride with the National Park Service to the top of the observation tower, allowing them to absorb the medicine Kuwohi offers along with its spectacular views.

The next Kuwohi Connection Days event will be on Tuesday, September 16th, with a Sunrise Celebration to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the name change. This celebration starts at 7:00 AM, followed by the educational event for fifth graders at 9:00 AM, and community time beginning at 12:30 PM.