WHEREAS, we, the members of the National Congress of American Indians of the United States, invoking the divine blessing of the Creator upon our efforts and purposes, in order to preserve for ourselves and our descendants the inherent sovereign rights of our Indian nations, all rights secured under Indian treaties and agreements with the United States, and all other rights and benefits to which we are entitled under the laws and Constitution of the United States, to enlighten the public toward a better understanding of the Indian people, to preserve Indian cultural values, and otherwise promote the welfare of the Indian people, do hereby establish and submit the following resolution:

WHEREAS, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is the oldest and largest national organization established in 1944 and comprised of representatives of and advocates for national, regional, and local Tribal concerns; and

WHEREAS, the health, safety, welfare, education, economic and employment opportunity, and preservation of cultural and natural resources are primary goals and objectives of NCAI.

WHEREAS, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act is significant legislation that was implemented to ensure the return of the remains currently being held captive in museums throughout the United States; and

WHEREAS, the National Park Service is soliciting nominations for placement of Tribal individuals to the National Review committee that resolves disputes on repatriation. They also are a committee that could effect further legislation beneficial to all tribes; and

WHEREAS, the Spokane Tribe of Indians is seeking endorsement of Mr. Louie Wynne to this National Review Committee. Mr. Wynne, is currently the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Spokane Tribe, he has served the Tribe in a variety of capacities, mainly in Culture Resource management. He is eminently qualified for this position and will ensure that the Northwest Tribes are well represented at the National level;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that NCAI does hereby support the nomination of Mr. Louie Wynne to the National Park Service, NAGPRA National Review committee.

The foregoing resolution was adopted at the 2000 Mid-Year Session of the National Congress of American Indians, held at the Centennial Hall, in Juneau, Alaska on June 25-28, 2000 with a quorum present.

_______________________________

Susan Masten, President

Juana Majel, Recording Secretary

Adopted by the General Assembly during the 2000 Mid-Year Session of the National Congress of American Indians, held at the Centennial Hall, in Juneau, Alaska on June 25-28, 2000.