‘On your side’
Obama commits to Indian nations
By
Rob Capriccioso
Story Published:
Nov 5, 2009
Story Updated:
Nov 5, 2009
WASHINGTON – In a sweeping effort to strengthen relations with tribes, President Barack Obama took to the podium of the Sydney R. Yates Auditorium at the Department of the Interior this morning.
He addressed hundreds of tribal leaders hailing from sovereign nations across the country who he invited to discuss their concerns.
“I’m on your side,” Obama told the audience before fielding several questions from tribal leaders.
“I know what it feels like to be forgotten. You will not be forgotten as long as I’m in this White House.”
The president later signed a memorandum instructing federal agencies to consult with tribes on a variety of policy matters that affect them. The executive order is significant because it gives a 90-day period for agency heads to respond.
The event signified the fulfillment of a promise Obama made to Indian country during his presidential campaign.
“Today’s summit,” Obama said, “is not lip service. It is part of a lasting conversation.”
Jefferson Keel, newly elected president of the National Congress of American Indians, was the first to address Obama during a brief comment period.
“You have restored hope – not just by your words, but by your actions.”
The White House Tribal Nations Conference will continue throughout the day with several cabinet members scheduled to participate.
Tuesday, Nov 10 at 5:27 PM Indigenious from Nevada wrote ...
Howdy to all my indigenious brothers and sisters. I see good things happening to us. God bless our new Chief & family. We need you to help us get through these hard times our natives have endured so long. Now let's turn a new page for us. Pardon Leonard Peltier. He's innocent. Ex-Pres Clinon pardoned his brother. He never should have..
31909154 Inappropriate? Alert Us!Friday, Nov 6 at 12:12 PM retired wrote ...
msnbc had a short statement. Pres: Obama addressed Fort Hood incident after short mention on tribal Nations.
31699441 Inappropriate? Alert Us!Friday, Nov 6 at 10:46 AM N.W. Native wrote ...
So where was all the national media? I checked every channel and found nothing..typical! We know what we have and we know how difficult it is to be heard. We have to make our own way if things are to change. Let's not let ourselves be seen as victems here!
31693734 Inappropriate? Alert Us!Friday, Nov 6 at 2:24 AM White Clay wrote ...
Look, money doesn't grow on trees and current laws prohibit simply printing more. Talk is cheap and the U.S. is quickly headed towards bankruptcy. Don't count on this administration or any other to take care of you. Be prepared to earn your own way in this world or you will be in for a sad end.
31677999 Inappropriate? Alert Us!Thursday, Nov 5 at 2:52 PM Anonymous wrote ...
It's wonderful to see so many Native Peoples in the White House.
31650609 Inappropriate? Alert Us!Thursday, Nov 5 at 10:33 AM Todd LaFontaine wrote ...
There are certainly going to be brighter days ahead for ALL Americans after 8 years of the disatrous Bush administration. God bless President Obama and his committment to assisting Native Americans and working with them and God bless the Native American men and women everywhere!!
31632976 Inappropriate? Alert Us!Add a comment
Most Popular