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Started in 1947
The Center was formed in 1947 as an outgrowth of Native people moving to urban Phoenix not only to sell their crafts and goods but as a result of U.S. Government public policy. -
The first Indian center
The Center was founded by several individuals, under the leadership of Mr. Leon Grant, an Omaha Tribal member. -
No Payed workers
Services were provided by volunteers in the early days. -
Federal Government Indian relocations
The Federal Government’s Indian Relocation Act (PL 959) created a mass migration of American Indians from rural, reservation settings to large scale cities across the United States during the 1950-1960s. -
Stop Native culture
The Act was an attempt to assimilate American Indians into the prevailing non-Indian city life culture and remove their practice of Native culture and traditions through the break-up of reservation systems. -
Centers importance
These Centers were crucial in providing a place for American Indians to connect and socialize with other Indians and to receive various necessary services as they were removed to live city-life. -
The Phoenix Indian Center on 7th Street, south of Osborn Road.
From the success of the first and second buildings, they created a third one to help spread out help. -
assisting the Phoenix Indians
Over the years, we estimate that the Center has assisted nearly every urban American Indian residing in metropolitan Phoenix, either directly or indirectly. -
Working together
The Center gladly collaborates with other Indian and non-Indian agencies to improve the lifestyle of urban American Indians – the Phoenix community honors these relationships. -
Helping others stay together
The Center serves well over 7,000 individuals annually through direct services; related outreach touches the lives of more than 20,000 each year.
