Reid: Achieving Lasting Prosperity In America Must Include Native Americans

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State of Indian Nations Address Highlights 2009 Progress, Urges Further Action in 2010

President Jefferson Keel of the National Congress of American Indians outlined seven ways the Obama Administration can support Indian Nations’ contributions to the economy and vitality of America during annual address at the National Press Club today.

WASHINGTON D.C. - January 29, 2010 - In the eighth annual State of Indian Nations address, National Congress of American Indians President Jefferson Keel lauded the significant steps the Obama Administration has taken in recognizing the government-to-government relationship with Indian Nations. He urged the Administration to take "seven actions that will have a real and immediate effect on improving life in Indian communities."

"These actions will create jobs, expand healthcare, improve education, address crime, and more. All they require is action by the Administration," President Keel told the 200 audience members at the National Press Club. "I call on the Administration to act on these matters in the next 12 months."

President Keel pointed out Indian Country's 2009 accomplishments, including: the proposed settlement of the Cobell suit, the opening of the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington D.C., the first annual White House Tribal Nations Conference and numerous collaborative efforts with Congress and the Administration that resulted in positive policy outcomes for Native Americans.

"In that spirit, I am pleased to report that the State of Indian Nations is strong… and growing stronger every day. At the same time, we have much work to do, and now is the time to take action," stated President Keel to applause.

The address is available for online viewing on our website www.ncai.org.

Contact: Jamie Gomez, 202-466-7767 x211, jgomez@ncai.org

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Contact: Jamie Gomez at 202-466-7767 ext. 211 or jgomez@ncai.org

NCAI President Jefferson Keel to Deliver 8th Annual State of Indian Nations Address

WASHINGTON—January 21, 2010—The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Jefferson Keel will deliver the 8^th annual State of Indian Nations address on Friday, January 29, 2010 from the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The speech will coincide with the release of President Barack Obama’s budget.

Themes will include: Indian Country’s priorities for the 111^th Congress and the Obama Administration; economic development; jobs for Native Americans; and the roles for tribal governments in our economy and society.

WHO:  NCAI President Jefferson Keel

WHAT:  State of Indian Nations Address

WHEN:  Friday, January 29, 2010, 9:30 a.m. EST

WHERE:  National Press Club – Ballroom
14th & F Streets, NW, Washington, D.C. (map & parking)

The speech will also be broadcast live at www.ncai.org. We advise that you log on to the site at least five minutes before the scheduled address. It will also be carried on a number of Native radio stations. Please check your local listings. A mult box will be available for members of the press.

For more information or to RSVP contact Annarae Steele at 202-466-7767 or asteele@ncai.org

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Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments, promoting strong tribal-federal government to-government policies, and promoting a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people and rights.