Legislative Update, 342, 4/6/2001

"Peoples" Used by the Organization of American States - Great strides were made by the member states of the OAS during this weeks special working session on the Proposed American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Populations. One of the first topics discussed by the member states and invited Indigenous leaders was the necessity to use the term "Peoples" instead of Populations in the declaration. It was agreed by the states to change the title of the declaration to incorporate the term "Peoples". The use of the term "Peoples" is very important. Within international law, "Peoples" denotes the right to self-determination. This right is a controversial issue within the OAS. To have the member states agree to change the title is a very positive step forward.

Indigenous leaders from the Americas were invited to participate in the OAS drafting session this week to discuss with the member states the proposed Declaration that is aimed at protecting the cultures, lands and other basic interests of Indigenous Peoples. The creation of the American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples has been underway in the OAS since 1989.

Indigenous leaders agree that the OAS has made important progress in considering the rights of Indigenous peoples. The United States has come out strong in its support for Indigenous rights. In the governments opening statement , Thomas Shannon, leader of the U.S. delegation stated:

"the U.S. delegation is committed to a declaration that will advance indigenous rights, counteract discrimination based on indigenous origin, and foster appreciation for, and understanding of, the value of indigenous knowledge, traditions, cultures, and institutions."

"In practice, the current U.S. policy is that indigenous peoples have a right to negotiate their political status within the framework of the existing nation-state and the freedoms to pursue their economic, social and cultural development."

NCAI President Susan Masten participated in the Indigenous caucus meetings where she stressed the need for Indigenous peoples to be at the drafting table and provided encouragement to all the indigenous participants. She also provided statements and answered questions during today's OAS press conference. For additional information on this weeks drafting session contact Victoria Wright, NCAI Legislative Associate, at (202)466-7767.