ICT - Politics

Memorandum for the heads of executive departments and agencies

The United States has a unique legal and political relationship with Indian tribal governments, established through and confirmed by the Constitution of the United States, treaties, statutes, executive orders, and judicial decisions. In recognition of that special relationship, pursuant to Executive Order 13175 of November 6, 2000, executive departments and agencies (agencies) are charged with engaging in regular and meaningful consultation and collaboration with tribal officials in the development of Federal policies that have tribal implications, and are responsible for strengthening the government-to-government relationship between the United States and Indian tribes.

Tribal embassy opens to great fanfare

WASHINGTON – The week of the White House Tribal Nations Conference was one of many high notes, including strong promises from the president and his administration, unprecedented representation from tribal leadership, and the festive opening of an international Embassy of Tribal Nations.

Questioning a ‘commander-in-chief’ for focusing on Indians

WASHINGTON – In the waning minutes of the day-long White House Tribal Nations Conference, held Nov. 5, President Barack Obama performed two duties: He said goodbye to the hundreds of leaders of sovereign Indian nations whom he invited to Washington, and addressed the horrific shootings at Fort Hood. In doing so, he created a controversy that has perplexed some in Indian country.

Obama administration knocks Carcieri ruling

WASHINGTON – It took a few months for Obama officials to take a clear public stand on the controversial Supreme Court’s Carcieri v. Salazar ruling, but when they did, they came out swinging.

Tribal leaders asked to support climate legislation

WASHINGTON – A group of tribal, advocacy, environmental and legal organizations is requesting that tribes support climate legislation, especially given current incentives proposed in Congress.

Indian Affairs organizational realignment

WASHINGTON – Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs Larry Echo Hawk has approved a realignment of his office’s organizational and reporting structure. The realignment is contained in an order he signed Sept. 11, effective immediately.

Trimble: Let go the chains of victimhood

In this new social and political era, we will be challenged to solve the problems that plague our tribal communities, moving up from victims to victors; the one thing we must do is shed the chains of victimhood.

Mankiller: Energized and hopeful for Sen. Barack Obama

As a Native woman, it is tough not to feel distrustful of and cynical toward most politicians. But on the crest of this election season, unlike any prior, I feel buoyed. I feel energized, engaged and excited. I feel something new: hope.

Trimble: No easy answers in Indian country

It was Jan. 28, 1986, in the boardroom of the American Indian National Bank in Washington, DC. I remember the date well because of why the meeting ended abruptly. I and a couple of my associates of Charles Trimble Company were briefing then-Congressman John McCain on the findings of a recent study we conducted.

Native ‘first dude’ holds power

WASHINGTON – Some Alaskan politicos say that Todd Palin, the husband of Gov. Sarah Palin, has held unprecedented power over her decision-making process during her two years in the state’s highest office. Since he’s Alaska Native, some Indians can’t help but wonder if his spousal sway could result in more tribal influence in the White House if Sen. McCain were elected.