GRIC Urban Members Association Celebrates 25 Years

Roberto A. Jackson

Communications & Public Affairs Office

The GRIC Urban Members Association partied like it’s 1999 to commemorate their 25th Anniversary on July 27 at the Shelde Building.

GRIC UMA hosted 150 urban members and special guests for a celebration of laughs, memories and wishes for the future in their mission to serve Community members who reside off the reservation.

“The event was a blend of honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to the future, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the community,” said Mocha De Los Santos, GRIC UMA Chairwoman.

Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis and Lt. Gov. Regina Antone attended with Community Council Representatives Duane Jackson, Jr., District 1; Joseph Manuel, Jr., District 3; Leah Williams, District 4; and Gordon Santos, Jr., District 5.

“The presence of the council showed our leaders are deeply committed to and supportive of the UMA’s mission and accomplishments. It also fostered unity and helped strengthen the bond between the community members and their leaders, promoting a sense of unity and shared purpose,” said De Los Santos of GRIC tribal leadership.

Gov. Lewis thanked all the guests for supporting UMA, including past board members and Community Council. He also acknowledged the current board members who provide services to Community members all over the country.

“You have a great board,” said Gov. Lewis.

Gov. Lewis praised UMA for educating its members on the history of the association.

“It’s important to remember that history – 25 years, that’s so important.”

Precious Vicente provided the blessing, Achem A’al performed basket dances and comedian Wolf Brown entertained the audience before the meal.

GRIC UMA provided each guest with a promotional gift bag, which included information on the history of the urban members association.

“On July 7, 1999, the Gila River Indian Community Urban Members Association was formally approved and recognized by the Gila River Indian Community Council,” according to UMA.

Although the Community officially recognized UMA in 1999, the UMA charter members started their fight for an association two years prior in 1997. 

Lt. Gov. Antone said she was proud to attend the event and said she understands what difficulties they have. “We’re all Community members,” she said of all tribal members as a whole.

Each board member introduced themselves and offered remarks. In addition to De Los Santos, the board is Vice- Chair Marie Enos, Secretary Emma Aguillon, Treasurer Ron Porter, Member Kristin Nelson and Administrative Assistant Toni Rubio.

“It’s easy to overlook the challenges that urban communities encounter, often hidden from the public eye. Yet, we consistently come together to support one another in the best way possible, and this association remains at the heart of that collective effort,” said De Los Santos.