Raven Swamp, Miss Indian World, Steps Down

The Gathering of Nations Powwow announced on February 19, 2018 that the current Miss Indian World, Raven Swamp, has stepped down. Swamp was crowned Miss Indian World 2017 at last year’s Gathering of Nations Powwow. The 23 year old has been an ambassador for most of the last year representing Native and Indigenous people domestically and worldwide.

Raven Swamp issued the following statement:

I would like to thank the Miss Indian World Committee for this wonderful opportunity. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my year as Miss Indian World and I would especially like to thank my communities of Kahnawake, Ahkwesahsne and everyone throughout the Iroquois Confederacy for showing me nothing but love and support.

This past year has been truly special. I travelled across Turtle Island to many indigenous communities and meeting many amazing people. Along the way I represented my people and my nation to the best of my abilities. When I reflect on this year it fills my heart with joy and gratitude.

I had never held any title before this one. The demands and responsibilities had become too great and began to affect me personally.

Sadly at this time I must step away from this journey as Miss Indian World to focus on my health and wellbeing.

Regretfully, I must apologize in advance for cancelling my upcoming Haudenosaunee Smoke Dance Special at the next Gathering of Nations Powwow. The money that I had raised for the Dancers and Singers payout will now go to an as yet determined cause or charity.

From the bottom of my heart, it has been my great honour to represent you all as 2017-2018 Miss Indian World.

Niawenko:wa,

Raven Swamp

Official statement from the Gathering of Nations, Ltd.:

The Gathering of Nations, Ltd. and the Miss Indian World Program accepted Ms. Raven Swamp’s resignation as Miss Indian World 2017. She relinquished the title stating personal reasons. We respect her privacy in this matter. Due to the timing, the title of Miss Indian World shall remain vacant, until the 2018 Miss Indian World is crowned, April 28, 2018 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We ask the public and the media to respect Ms. Swamp’s privacy as she requested as well as the Runners-up to the Miss Indian World title 2017. No further comments will be made.

Respectfully,

The Gathering of Nations, Ltd. & Miss Indian World Program