41st Apache Jii coming to Globe October 19

This October, the Chamber will host the 41st Annual Apache Jii in downtown Globe, celebrating the San Carlos Apache culture and contributions to the region and representing a broad array of Native American artisans and performers who come from all over a tri-state area. 

While the event has been associated with outstanding performances by Apache Crown Dancers, The Yellow Bird Dancers, flute and drum music, in recent years the addition of new performances and artists provide a broader picture of what it means to be Apache. 

These include Douglas Miles Jr. and the Apache Skateboard Team who continue to bring a whole new generation to the forefront through the cultural branding of skateboard and art.

Apache Skateboard: Redefining the Landscape, was featured in GlobeMiamiTimes in 2019 and has grown exponentially since then, most recently securing a contract to have their swag represented in Zumiesz, a national chain of clothing and footwear. 

And, dressmakers like Joanna Miles and Selina Curley, dressmakers who honor Apache tradition, while imbuing each with their unique vision continue to attract notice both old and new generations. Each woman will host a fashion show this year at 10:30(Joanna) and 12:30 (Selina) their latest fashion shows. Both women will be representing their new line at Apache Jii.

This year, the poster for Apache Jii is a poignant reference to the Watch Fire, which burned 2100 acres and destroyed over a dozen homes this July. And it also is a reminder that the San Carlos Apache have a long and storied history in firefighting and the use of fire in managing the nearly 2 million acres of tribal land. 

The artwork by Derayna (Dawn) DeClay was selected by the Chamber Board from all the submissions this year, to represent the 41st Apache Jii. She is a former crew leader at Arizona Conservation Corps and studied at the Institute of American Indian Arts. You can find her work on FB and Instagram. 

This year’s Apache Jii will take place in downtown Globe on October 19 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Apache Jii schedule

9:00  a.m. Welcome by Globe Mayor Al Gameros

 Introduction by Master of Ceremonies Ardell Ganilla

9:30  a.m. Flutist Performance Robert Wilson

10:00  a.m. Forest Lake Singers Gary Elthie

10:30 a.m. Fashion Show – RAID- Joanna Miles-Long

11:00  a.m. Crown Dancers San Carlos Gaans

11:30  a.m. Skateboarding Apache Skateboard Te a.m.

Noon Hoop Dancers Yellow Bird Hoop Dancers

12:30 p.m. Fashion Show Traditions by Selina

1:00 p.m. Crown Dancers Cha’ bii’tu Apache School Dancers

1:30 p.m. Forest Lake Singers Gary Elthie

2:00 p.m. Flutist Performance Robert Wilson

2:30 p.m. Skateboarding Apache Skateboard Team

3:00 p.m. Hoop Dancers Yellow Bird Hoop Dancers

3:30 p.m. School Dancers San Carlos Apache Crown Dancers