Women Empowering Women for Indian Nations 2025

August 22, 2025

Emma Hughes

Community Newsperson

Women Empowering Women for Indian Nations (WEWIN) held their annual conference at the Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass on July 27-30.

Hundreds of women attended the conference, which provides a wide array of information, workshops, speakers, and panels.

This year’s theme “Sacred Connections: Embracing Heart, Body, and Spirit,” honored the strong balance embodied by Native women. “We are proud to present a program that embodies WEWIN’s mission to engage, inspire, and empower women in strengthening tribal cultures, asserting sovereign rights, and fostering leadership,” said WEWIN founder and president Susan Masten. “Over the past 21 years, this conference has become a symbol of pride and resilience for Native American women.”

A highlight of the event was the recognition of nominees inducted into the WEWIN Warrior Women’s Circle—a distinguished honor reserved for women whose courage, leadership, and lifelong contributions have made a lasting impact.

Gila River Indian Community Council Representative Terrance B. Evans, District 6, nominated former GRIC Council Representative Edena Antone, District 7, for the Warrior Women’s Circle. Antone was recognized during the honoring luncheon, where she received the award and a Pendleton blanket.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be in midst of everyone that is here today,” said Antone.

In the early 1970s, Mrs. Antone began her career at the District 7 Service Center, where she later became director. During her time in leadership, she confronted critical issues such as housing shortages that left many families, elders, and veterans without safe homes. Her determination to address these challenges led her to seek elected office. From 1977 to 1980, she served as District 7 Councilwoman, where her top priority was pushing for housing solutions.

Although health concerns prevented her from seeking another term, Mrs. Antone’s community involvement never ceased. She continued serving on the Executive Committee and was later elected to the Council of Elders, faithfully attending monthly community meetings.

Beyond governance, she embraced cultural and social activities, representing District 7 in Elder Chair Volleyball

Antone’s family and GRIC leadership including Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis, Lt. Gov. Regina Antone, and Community Council Representatives Jeanette Blasingim, Kristina Morago, Leah Williams, Nada Celaya, and Terrance B. Evans were present for the honoring.

Even today, Mrs. Antone remains a source of wisdom and encouragement. She is known for offering advice and moral support to those who seek her counsel, while continuing to pray for the strength and well-being of her family and Community.

Her story, filled with perseverance, leadership, and service, embodies the spirit of the Warrior Women’s Circle. It is with great honor that Mrs. Edena Antone is celebrated among this distinguished group of women, reminding us all of the enduring power of dedication, community, and prayer.