Dozens of tribal leaders and Indian educators are making their way to Washington, D.C., even as the nation's capitol digs itself out of a major snowstorm.

Upwards of two feet of snow fell in and around the capitol region and a few more inches are expected throughout the week. Despite the conditions, the United Southern and Eastern Tribes and the National Indian Education Association are committed to holding their DC conferences this week.

USET's Impact Week Meeting kicks off this morning at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel in Arlington, Virginia. Public transportation to and from the hotel will be severely limited today, since the Washington Metro has canceled service at the above-ground stations that most people would take to northern Virginia.

The conference runs through Thursday and includes a fundraiser at the Hard Rock Cafe in DC, hosted by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Other events include a Capitol Hill reception on Tuesday evening.

In DC proper, NIEA holds its 13th Legislative Summit at the Holiday Inn Capitol, near the U.S. Capitol. President Patrica L. Whitefoot is expected to deliver the State of Indian Education Address 2010 at 10am this morning.

Up-to-date information about transportation, road and weather conditions can be found at The Washington Post or on DCist.