CELEBRATING EXODUS DAY
By Harrison J. Bahe
On February 28, 2026, the Yavapai-Apache Nation in Camp Verde, Arizona, hosted its annual Exodus Day celebration, commemorating the day the Yavapai people escaped 25 long years of imprisonment at San Carlos and began their journey home.
Gathered at Veterans Memorial Park at the base of Cliff Castle Casino, Yavapai people from all four subtribes along with many Indigenous brothers and sisters from across the region came together in unity to honor Exodus Day 2026.
The commemoration began a day earlier in San Carlos, where dedicated volunteer runners assembled before dawn to begin a 180-mile marathon run from San Carlos to Camp Verde. Their journey on foot symbolized the same path once taken by Yavapai ancestors as they made their courageous return home. In addition, a smaller Exodus walk traced a meaningful route from Boynton Canyon to Veterans Memorial Park, where the main celebration commenced.
The event opened with a blessing and introductions by Councilman David Kwail, followed by a welcome address from Chairman Buddy Rocha. Tribal royalty from across Arizona proudly introduced themselves in their traditional languages, expressing gratitude for the gathering. Tribal dignitaries then offered words of reflection, honoring Exodus Day while representing their respective Nations. Representing the Fort McDowell Yavapai people with pride was Vice President Paul J. Russell. Miss Fort McDowell Dexwarena Ponciano Wathogoma, Junior Miss Fort McDowell Millie Rose Duenas-Nelson, and Miss Pai Woman Wendy Thomas also stood in proud representation of their community.
A vibrant series of cultural performances followed, featuring groups from across Arizona, including Michal Sine, the Big Sandy Bird Dancers, the 4 Pine Crown Dancers, the Maswadae Singers, the Dischiibikoh Community School, the Little Warriorettes, the Acorn Valley Crown Dancers, Ron Juan and the Madthii Swaddi Boys, the Lil Burnette Crown Dancers, Chi’Chino Spirit, and the San Carlos Youth Crown Dancers. Surrounding the cultural showcase arena were vendors offering traditional crafts, handmade goods, toys, and collectibles.
Despite the unseasonably warm weather, Yavapai people from every tribe gathered in strength and solidarity to celebrate their culture, history, and enduring resilience in the face of persecution. Every song sung, every dance performed, and every prayer shared stood as living testimony that, despite a long and tragic history marked by hardship and loss, the Yavapai people remain steadfast today and forever.
