Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians

Los Angeles Native Youth Conference, Hoops & Heritage
2026-06-20 09:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, 91330, United States
The Los Angeles Native Youth Conference is an exciting one‑day event created especially for Native youth ages 12–24 and their families. This conference brings together culture, education, athletics, and creativity in a positive, welcoming space where young people can connect, learn, and be inspired.
Hosted by the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians (FTBMI), Eduation & Cultural Learning Department, and American Indian Studies, California University, Northridge, the conference features interactive workshops, motivational speakers, sports activities, cultural teachings, and opportunities for creative expression. Native leaders, mentors, artists, and community organizations will be on hand to support youth as they explore their identity, strengthen their confidence, and discover new skills.
“Hoops & Heritage,” highlights the powerful connection between athletics, culture, and community. Through basketball and other activities, youth will learn about teamwork, leadership, and resilience—while also celebrating Native traditions, stories, and pride. Whether participants are athletes, artists, students, or all of the above, this event is designed to help them feel empowered, supported, and proud of who they are.
Parents and guardians can feel confident knowing this conference provides a safe, uplifting environment focused on personal growth, cultural connection, and preparing Native youth to become strong leaders for their communities and the future.

Tribal Nations & American 250
2026-06-20 10:00 - 12:00 | California State University, Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, 91330, United States
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Tribal Nations have an important opportunity to help shape the national conversation about our shared history and future.
Long before the founding of the United States, Indigenous peoples lived, governed, and cared for these lands. America 250 provides a moment to recognize Tribal sovereignty, honor Indigenous histories and contributions, and ensure Native voices are included in this historic commemoration.
Join the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, Tribal leaders, university leadership, students, faculty, and community members for a discussion on the significance of America 250 and the role of Tribal Nations in telling a more complete and inclusive story of our nation.
Registration

32nd Annual Heart of Tataviam Pow wow
2026-10-03 - 2026-10-04 | William S. Hart Regional Park, 24151 Newhall Ave, Santa Clarita, CA, 91321, United States
Hamiinat (Hello) A Historic Renaming Rooted in Ancestral HomelandsMany Nations, One Heartbeat.After 31 years as the Hart of the West Pow Wow, the gathering has been renamed the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow to honor the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians as the original stewards of these ancestral homelands. The renaming reflects a long-overdue commitment to truth, visibility, and centering Tataviam presence at the heart of the celebration moving forward.

Since 1994, the Pow Wow has brought communities together at William S. Hart Park in Newhall on the ancestral village of Tochonanga, where more than 73% of Tribal citizens trace their lineage. More than an event on Tribal land, it remains a living homecoming rooted in ancestral continuity. Now, under its new name, Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow, the gathering enters a new era that centers the enduring presence, history, and leadership of the Fernandeño Tataviam people in their homelands.

Hamiinat (Hello) A Historic Renaming Rooted in Ancestral HomelandsMany Nations, One Heartbeat.After 31 years as the Hart of the West Pow Wow, the gathering has been renamed the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow to honor the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians as the original stewards of these ancestral homelands. The renaming reflects a long-overdue commitment to truth, visibility, and centering Tataviam presence at the heart of the celebration moving forward.
What began as a regional gathering has grown into one of the Santa Clarita Valley’s most significant Native-led cultural events, celebrating Indigenous identity, intertribal unity, and community. Today, under Tribal leadership, the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow welcomes thousands each year while affirming the enduring presence and ancestral connection of the Fernandeño Tataviam people. The Evolution of the Heart of Tataviam Pow WowOne Gathering. Generations of Community.What began as a regional gathering has grown into one of the Santa Clarita Valley’s most significant Native-led cultural events, celebrating Indigenous identity, intertribal unity, and community. Today, under Tribal leadership, the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow welcomes thousands each year while affirming the enduring presence and ancestral connection of the Fernandeño Tataviam people.

Over the past three decades, the Pow Wow has grown into a celebration of Indigenous identity and intertribal unity. In 2019, the Pow Wow Committee partnered with the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, and by 2023, the Tribe became the official host, ensuring the gathering reflects Tribal leadership and stewardship.

Today, the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow welcomes thousands each year for dance, song, drumming, and community. More than an event, it affirms the enduring presence of the Fernandeño Tataviam people and their deep connection to their ancestral homelands.

Event DetailsExperience North LA County’s Pow Wow!tochonanga Join us for two unforgettable days of culture, community, and celebration at the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow, taking place October 3–4, 2026, on the ancestral village of Tochonanga at William S. Hart Park in Newhall. Experience the heartbeat of tradition through vibrant dancing, drumming, Native arts, food, and intertribal gathering on Tataviam ancestral homelands. See The Tribe’s Territory
Experience North LA County’s Pow Wow!October 3 – 4, 2026
Newhall, California
Meet Our Special Entertainers! Arena Victor ChavezArena Director
(Diné) Victor Chavez was born on the Isleta Reservation in El Paso, Texas. Victor began Arena directing in the mid 80’s. Victor majored in Architect Design. A self-business owner of V CHAVEZ construction. Victor is licensed and bonded as a general contractor for over 35 years in the state of California. Victor is always proud and humble to give back to his Indian community. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend at HOT powwow.
Glen BegayMaster of Ceremonies
(Diné) Yá’át’ééh shí éí Glen Begay yíníshyé’. Kin l ichii’nii nishłį́. Tachii’nii ’éí bá shíshchíín. Naakai dine’e’éí dashicheii. Ma’ii deeshgiizhinii’éí dashinálí.
Hello, my name is Glen Begay, I am from the Redhouse clan (my mother’s clan), born for Red Streak Running into Water (father’s clan), my maternal grandfather is Mexican Clan, my paternal grandfather’s clan is Coyote Pass. My father’s name is Francis Begay and my mother’s name is Rosemary Begay. My upbringing was a traditional way of life. I was raised by my parents who did not go to school. So, we learned our language first, then English second at a boarding school.
I was born and raised on the Navajo Reservation, at a community called Steamboat Canyon. South of there is a place called Shush bi toh, Bearspring, where I am originally from. It is an honor to be asked to come back to serve as an MC for this year’s Pow Wow.
Ahéhee’ (Thank you)
Ted GarciaSpritual Advisor
(Fernandeño Tataviam)Theodore (Ted) Garcia is an Elders Councilmember for his tribe, the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, and has been a storyteller for decades. He descends from the villages located in the San Fernando, Santa Clarita, and Antelope valleys. Ted is a stone carver and has created artwork for the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum, local museums and nature preserves, and has been involved with the Gene Autry Native American Marketplace for over 20 years.
Drums Blue StarHost Northern DrumBlue Star is a traditional style singing group from Southern California. We come from a tightly knit group of families who’ve grown up together, singing and dancing throughout the nation. Our drum name originated from the Ca State Route 99 traveled by our founding members. This “Blue Star Memorial Highway” pays tribute to the U.S. armed forces and their families. The present-day Blue Star continues to follow our original instructions; to sing the older Traditional Lakota songs, to be respectful of these traditions, and to share what we have learned. Our intention is to honor those generous individuals who have encouraged us by sharing their lives and traditions with us. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our families, and extended families, for their continued support and encouragement. It is with sincerity that we acknowledge the original inhabitants of this area and thank the Powwow Committee for inviting us. We wish you all a blessed weekend and a safe trip home.
Hale & Co.Host Southern DrumThe Hale and Company Drum was created in the 1970’s under the guidance of the late Henry Hale, a respected member of the Navajo Nation. Along with his wife, Lucy Hale, Henry established his family in Los Angeles, California. There, he also planted the roots of what would become a powerful cultural legacy by forming the Hale and Company drum group. The drum is a spiritual and cultural anchor for Native people that were relocated. After Henry’s passing, his sons—Benjamin, Kevin, Bruce, and Phillip Hale—continued to carry the drum and uphold the traditions their father instilled. Through powwows, ceremonies, and gatherings, they shared songs, stories, and teachings, ensuring that the drum remained a living part of the community. Currently, the legacy lives on through the next generation. Young leaders like Nate, Jonathan, and Benjamin Jr. have taken up the responsibility of learning and sharing the songs and protocols, continuing the intergenerational transmission of knowledge. The Hale and Company drum remains active today in Los Angeles, a symbol of resilience, cultural pride, and the enduring strength of Diné traditions far from home.
Dancers Jamaal-Isaac Jones(Diné)Head ManYá’át’ééh! My name is Jamaal-Isaac Jones, a proud citizen of the Navajo Nation from Chinle, Arizona. Born for the Towering House Clan and born to the Deer Water Clan, I began my Grass Dance journey at age five and have dedicated my life to honoring and preserving this tradition.
Through years of commitment, I’ve developed a championship-level style recognized across the pow wow circuit, with performances at major cultural events, festivals, and educational programs throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia.
As a performer and cultural ambassador, I blend athleticism, artistry, and storytelling to share the significance of Indigenous traditions with diverse audiences. The Men’s Grass Dance—rooted in Northern Plains warrior societies—symbolizes resilience, healing, and connection to the land.
Whether as a Head Dancer, featured performer, or presenter, I strive to honor tradition while inspiring future generations.
Monica Bartelt(Purépecha Mapuche)Head WomanMari Mari! Hello everyone, my name is Monica Bartelt. I am 31 years old from Simi Valley, CA, where I currently reside. I am Purépecha on my mom’s side and on my dad’s side I am Mapuche. In my younger years I’ve danced and been involved in powwows and now as an adult I have been getting back into it and feels like returning home. In my free time, if there is such a thing as a mom, I enjoy seeing, beading, reading, the outdoors and spending time with my family usually at a powwow. Thank you to the powwow committee for asking me to serve as head woman!
Tso Yanez Jr.Head Young ManMiyiiha and Yah-tah-hey, my name is Tso Richard Yanez Jr. I am Tongva, Navajo of the Kiyaa’áanii clan (Towering House), Yaqui, and Iroquois nations. My parents are Kat and Tso Yanez. My Grandparents are Emily and Bob Jimenez, on my mom’s side. My Grandparents are also Pauline and the late Richard Yanez, from my dad’s side. I love playing basketball at school and playing outdoors. I am very much into music concerts with my family. When I am relaxing, playing on the Nintendo Switch, it’s fun to play with our whole family. I am grateful for my big brothers, Jason and Sam, as well as all my dancing and singing uncles, for their teaching. Aweeshkone xaa, and Ahee’ hee’ to the Heart of Tataviam Powwow for the honor of being Head Young Man for 2026.
Skuya JacksonHead Young WomanHello everyone! My name is Skuya Jackson. While I serve as head girl, I am also a powwow princess for the Big Pine Youth Powwow 2025-2026. On my mom’s side I am proudly enrolled with the Ho-chunk nation from Wisconsin, and I am Spirit Lake Dakota. From my dad’s side, I am Fort Yuma Quechan and Laguna Pueblo. I want to say thank you to the powwow committee for having me as their head girl and am excited to see everyone at the powwow!
0000Days00Hours00Minutes00SecondsFrequently Asked QuestionsHow can I support the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:45:52-07:00How can I support the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow?

You can support by attending, becoming a sponsor, volunteering, sharing the event with others, and purchasing directly from Native vendors and artists during the Pow Wow weekend.

How does the Pow Wow support the Tribe and community?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:45:58-07:00How does the Pow Wow support the Tribe and community?The Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow supports cultural revitalization, education, community engagement, and Indigenous visibility within the region. It also creates space for intertribal relationships and public understanding of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians and the history of these ancestral homelands.
Will there be Native vendors and food?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:45:15-07:00Will there be Native vendors and food?Yes. The Pow Wow features Native-owned businesses, artists, craftspeople, and food vendors from many Tribal communities. Supporting vendors directly supports Indigenous artists, families, and cultural economies.
Why is the drum important?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:44:57-07:00Why is the drum important?The drum is often described as the heartbeat of the Pow Wow. Its songs carry tradition, honor, memory, and connection. Drum groups play an essential role in bringing dancers, singers, and community together within the arena.
Can I take photographs?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:44:46-07:00Can I take photographs?Photography is generally welcome, but certain songs, ceremonies, or dances may be restricted. Please listen to announcements from the arena and always be respectful when photographing dancers, elders, or community members.
What should visitors know about regalia?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:44:24-07:00What should visitors know about regalia?The clothing worn by dancers is called regalia, not costume. Regalia reflects identity, family, tribal traditions, and personal achievement, and may carry spiritual and cultural significance. Please treat dancers and their regalia with respect.
Can anyone participate in the dancing?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:44:14-07:00Can anyone participate in the dancing?Some dances, known as Intertribals, welcome public participation and will be announced by the Master of Ceremonies. Other dances are reserved for registered dancers and participants. We encourage guests to listen carefully to announcements and follow arena protocols.
What can I expect at the Pow Wow?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:43:52-07:00What can I expect at the Pow Wow?Visitors can experience intertribal dancing, drum groups, Native artisans, cultural demonstrations, traditional foods, educational opportunities, and community gathering spaces. The Pow Wow brings together Native participants and visitors from across California and North America.
Is the Pow Wow open to the public?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:43:26-07:00Is the Pow Wow open to the public?Yes. The Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow welcomes all visitors who come in a spirit of respect, learning, and community. Guests are encouraged to experience Native cultures through dance, music, art, food, and storytelling.
Where does the Pow Wow take place?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:43:00-07:00Where does the Pow Wow take place?The Pow Wow takes place at William S. Hart Park, on the ancestral village site of Tochonanga. The Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians are the direct descendants of the people of this village, making the gathering especially meaningful as a celebration rooted in ancestral land.
Why was the name changed from Hart of the West to Heart of Tataviam?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:42:27-07:00Why was the name changed from Hart of the West to Heart of Tataviam?After 31 years, the Pow Wow’s new name reflects a deeper commitment to acknowledging the original stewards of the land where the gathering takes place. “Heart of Tataviam” centers the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians and recognizes the enduring connection between the Tribe, the ancestral village of Tochonanga, and the broader Native community.
The previous name centered William S. Hart.
What is the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:41:51-07:00What is the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow?The Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow is a Native American cultural gathering hosted by the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians on their ancestral homelands in the Santa Clarita Valley. More than an event, it is a space for community, cultural continuity, intertribal connection, and honoring the living traditions of Indigenous peoples.
Which vendors boothed at the 2025 Pow Wow?Fatehi2026-05-07T11:35:09-07:00Which vendors boothed at the 2025 Pow Wow?Food 1 Wildhorse Native Foods
Food 2 Sundellas Italian Ice
Food 3 Nono’s Tacos
Food 4 Yellowhorse Frybread and Indian Tacos
Food 5 Wendy’s Crepes
0 FTBMI Climate Hub
1 Bella’s Creation
2 HOTWPW Informational booth
3 Nayeli Vazquez
4 Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians
5 Tabah Nez Jewelry
6 Amigas Aesthetics
7 EL COLIBRI ART AND CRAFTS
8 Southern Steelhead Coalition
9 Rita Naranjo – Of Many
10 Rosa Villanueva
11 Diana Males
12 Tomas Plata
13 Sol De Cobre
14 Nely’s Cultural
15 Mariuska’s Face Painting
16 Nativeijewelry
17 Gutiérrez Desing
18 Sacred Creations
19 Adan Rosales
20 Jesse Lara
21 Sandy Ramirez
22 Tommiechild
23 SFTC – San Fernando Transit Constructors
24 College of the Canyons
25 Eva and Adolfo Arteaga
26 Santiago Cordova Quichuwa
27 Katherine Lee-Rivera
28 Emely Burga South Native Kitchwa
29 California Community Colleges
30 Marjorie Jensen Navajo (Dine’)
31 Santa Clarita History Center
32 Tor Enterprises
33 California State Parks
34 Lita Thompson Navajo
35 TreePeople
36 Azteca Regalias
37 Circling Hawk Creations
38 Martha’s Jewerly
39 Monahoney & Teen Native Baskets
40 Saya’s Craft
41 Inka Wasi
42 Arte Nayac
43 Veterans for Peace Chapter 112
44 Pukuu
45 Sophia Wong
46 Karen Griffin
48 Kaaj Leather
49 Yaocuauhtli Leather Works
50 Grannies Gifts and Crafts
51 Bahe Stanely
52 Maria Christoper
53 Victor Mackey
54 Jessica Matango Kichwa

Fernandeño TataviamAbout the Host TribeThe Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians is a historic California Native American tribe and the traditional caretaker of the lands now known as the Santa Clarita Valley, northern Los Angeles County, and surrounding regions. The Tribe is comprised of the lineal descendants of the Tataviam people, who have stewarded these lands since time immemorial. Today, FTBMI is actively engaged in cultural revitalization, environmental stewardship, education, and advocacy, while continuing its pursuit of federal recognition. Through events like the Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow, the Tribe shares its living culture, strengthens intertribal relationships, and fosters greater understanding of Indigenous histories and contemporary presence. Memories From Last Year The Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow stands on the dedication of the founders, volunteers, community members, and partners—including the Friends of Hart Park—whose decades of service, love, and passion sustained this gathering and helped it grow into the meaningful tradition it is today.
Hakup’a’ai for your years of gathering for our community. The Powwow Committee is accepting vendor applications for the Powwow.
Vendor ApplicationSupport the Hart of the West Annual Powwow, many sponsor levels and digital program book opportunities.
Pow wow Sponsorship
