FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ohketeau Cultural Center Celebrates Status as First-Ever Indigenous-Led Official Boston Marathon Charity

Building on its groundbreaking entry into the global athletic arena, the Ohketeau Cultural Center continues to blaze a trail as the first Native American-founded and Native American-led organization in history to be named an official charity of the Boston Marathon. Through its ongoing Natives Run initiative, Ohketeau is expanding visibility and creating opportunities for Indigenous runners to reclaim historic spaces along the legendary marathon route.

As the race approaches, Ohketeau’s participation marks a profound moment of cultural visibility and structural equity. For more than a century, individual Indigenous athletes have left an indelible mark on the marathon, but Ohketeau’s inclusion in the official charity program marks the first time a regional, Native-led non-profit has been granted direct team status.

"Our presence in the Boston Marathon is about more than fundraising; it is about honoring the footsteps of our ancestors who ran these very trails for centuries," said Larry Spotted Crow Mann, Executive Director of the Ohketeau Cultural Center. "To stand as the first Indigenous organization in the history of this program is an honor, a responsibility, and an invitation for our youth to see themselves represented on the world stage."

Funds raised through the partnership directly support Ohketeau’s multi-disciplinary programming, which provides safe spaces, cultural education, workshops, and creative opportunities for Indigenous communities across southern New England. By linking athletic excellence with Indigenous advocacy, the Natives Run team is actively changing the narrative surrounding regional tribal presence and persistence.

Supporters can track the journey of Ohketeau’s runners, view fundraising updates, and contribute directly to the historic team by visiting the official GivenGain platform.