The Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Alabama’s only federally recognized Native American tribe, are descended from a segment of the Creek Nation. Today, the tribe manages the powerful Wind Creek Hospitality brand, OWA Parks and Resort, a federal contracting company, and a Natural Resources Department that manages Perdido River Farms, wildlife reserves, and next year is opening a $15 million meat processing facility.

Stephanie Bryan was elected tribal chair and CEO in 2014, the tribe’s first female tribal chair, according to their website. She previously served as vice chair of the Poarch Creek Indians’ tribal council. Bryan oversees all of the tribe’s operations, including the government, Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA) and the PCI Gaming Authority.

This past week, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians held their 51st annual Pow Wow. Thousands were expected to come to the tribe’s Atmore reservation for the annual celebration. Here, Bryan discusses the Pow Wow, how the tribe is working to address labor shortages for its many businesses and the importance of sovereignty.

Questions and answers have been condensed and edited for clarity.

I want to start with the Pow Wow. It’s the 51st annual Pow Wow, tell me a bit about, the tradition behind it, and anything special you have planned for this year’s.