The Issele Association of North America was founded in Chicago in 1999. Issele indigenes came together representing the 3 different villages for a 2-day brainstorming session.

This resulted in the creation of the national umbrella organization with the name of IANA, which aimed to coordinate efforts across various indigenes in the United States and Canada. The plans for the first convention included discussions on key topics such as how to give back to those who were home, the proper engagement model going forward, and the goals of the organization. It was a pivotal moment that brought together our brothers and sisters inhabiting North America for future collaborative initiatives and to address emerging challenges in a unified manner.

The first convention was a significant milestone for the organization, marking the beginning of a tradition that would shape its future. Held in Houston, Texas, the convention saw the gathering of dedicated members from all corners of the country, eager to participate in the democratic process. This historic event not only established the framework for future conventions but also resulted in the election of the first executive leadership team, whose vision and dedication would set the tone for the organization’s growth and development.

IANA’s commitment to supporting our family members in the Issele villages is unwavering. Through ongoing medical missions, we aim to address the healthcare challenges faced by the community, ensuring that essential medical services are accessible to all. Additionally, our efforts extend to providing much-needed educational resources such as desks and chairs, contributing to the improvement of the learning environment for the children in the region. We are dedicated to exploring various avenues to assist our communities as needed, striving to make a meaningful and sustainable impact on their well-being and development.

IANA also focuses on doing this on a regular cadence, exemplified through our medical missions being conducted approximately every 2 years.