Resolutions are one of the policy mechanisms utilized by NCAI to express the consensus positions of member Tribal Nations on Tribal, federal, state, and/or local legislation, litigation, or policy matters that affect the welfare and rights of American Indian and Alaska Native governments or communities.

Resolutions submitted for consideration at NCAI’s Executive Council Winter Session (ECWS) must be emergency in nature and national in scope. At this year’s 2026 ECWS, NCAI received a total of ten resolutions. The NCAI Executive Committee recommended the adoption of four of the resolutions. You can view the final adopted resolutions 

. From there, view and download the resolutions by clicking the link in the Resolution Number.

2026 ECWS Policy Resolutions Now Available

. – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is pleased to welcome Leonard Fineday as NCAI’s new General Counsel. A citizen of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Fineday brings extensive legal, governance, and policy experience in service of Tribal Nations. He most recently served as Secretary/Treasurer of the Leech Lake Reservation Business Committee and has held senior roles across Indian Country, including Tribal Attorney, General Counsel, Legal Director, Executive Director, and Tribal Court Judge.

“Leonard brings a rare combination of deep legal expertise and lived leadership in Tribal governance,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “He understands what it takes to defend Tribal sovereignty in the courts, in Congress, and in day-to-day nation-building. We’re honored to welcome him to this role and grateful he is stepping in at a moment when Tribal Nations need strong, principled legal strategies more than ever.”

In addition to his leadership across Indian Country, Fineday has deep leadership experience within NCAI, most recently serving as Midwest Regional Vice President from 2023 to 2025 and as Recording Secretary from 2024 to 2025. He was appointed to NCAI’s Resolutions Committee last year and led the foundation of the NCAI Cannabis Task Force, serving as Chair since 2025. He brings a regional and national perspective through his service with intertribal organizations, state commissions, and boards focused on justice, education, and economic development.

Fineday’s legal work has supported landmark land restoration efforts, federal and state legislative advocacy, governance reform, and complex financing and regulatory matters. As General Counsel, Fineday will strengthen NCAI’s legal strategy, advocacy efforts, and government-to-government engagement in defense of Tribal sovereignty.

Please join us in welcoming Leonard Fineday to this critical role.

NCAI Welcomes Leonard Fineday as NCAI’s General Counsel

View the final adopted 2025 Resolutions below. You can view and download the resolutions by clicking the Resolution Number.

2025 Annual Final Resolutions Now Available 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be hosting Tribal Consultations notwithstanding the federal government shutdown. To access registration links and further details, please visit the event pages below:

USDA Tribal Consultations on the Department Reorganization Plan in D.C.

 | Tuesday, October 14 at 2:00-5:00 p.m. ET

USDA Tribal Consultations on the Department Reorganization Plan in Denver, CO

 | Thursday, October 16 at 12:00-3:00 p.m. MT

USDA Tribal Consultation on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

 | Wednesday, October 22 at 1:00-3:00 p.m. ET

USDA to Host Tribal Consultations Notwithstanding Federal Government Shutdown

 The National Congress of American Indians mourns the passing of Robert Tippeconnie, who walked on July 3, 2025. For more than a decade, he served on NCAI’s Executive Committee—first as Southern Plains Alternate Vice President and later as Regional Vice President—bringing the voices of Comanche, Kiowa, Apache, Wichita, and other Southern Plains Nations to the national stage. A lifelong public servant, he also held multiple leadership roles within the Comanche Nation, most recently as Secretary/Treasurer, where he championed transparent governance and sound stewardship of tribal resources.

Secretary/Treasurer Tippeconnie’s advocacy resonated far beyond any single title. He was instrumental in shaping NCAI’s positions on land and water policy, advancing the HEARTH Act and other laws that strengthen tribal self-determination. He pressed federal partners to adopt budgets that honor the trust responsibility and insisted that Native students have equal access to quality education. Colleagues remember him for his calm wisdom, his ability to find consensus, and his unwavering belief that sovereignty and culture must guide every decision.

Indian Country has lost a steady and generous leader, but his legacy lives on in the institutions he helped shape and in the generations of young people he mentored to lead with courage and compassion. NCAI extends its deepest condolences to the Tippeconnie family, the Comanche Nation, and all who were touched by his life of service. May his memory continue to inspire us in the work ahead.

NCAI Honors the Life and Legacy of Robert Tippeconnie (Comanche Nation)

 The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) joins Indian Country in profound sorrow at the news that Chairman Arlan D. Melendez (Reno-Sparks Indian Colony) has walked on. A tireless champion of sovereignty and economic self-determination, Chairman Melendez served his Nation and Native peoples for more than three decades. Elected chairman in 1991, Melendez oversaw major expansion of his tribe’s land base and enhanced health and social-service programs.

“Chairman Arlan Melendez devoted his life to servant leadership grounded in humility, courage, and an unwavering commitment to tribal sovereignty,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “His example strengthened not only the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, but Tribal Nations across the United States. We mourn his loss and honor the legacy he leaves for future generations.”

Beyond his own community, he served as NCAI Western Regional Vice President, co-chair of NCAI’s Taxation Sub-Committee, Vice President of the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada, and, in 2005, became only the second American Indian appointed to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam era, Chairman Melendez received lifetime-achievement honors from the Native American Finance Officers Association and the Indian Health Service, among others. His commitment to unity and collaboration left an indelible mark on Indian Country.

“We are proud to have stood beside Chairman Melendez in countless policy battles,” added NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “From federal tax equity to health-care parity, Chairman’s steady voice reminded Washington that trust and treaty obligations are non-negotiable. His wisdom will continue to guide NCAI’s work.”

NCAI offers its deepest condolences to the Melendez family, the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, and all who were inspired by his leadership. May his memory remain a blessing and a call to continued action on behalf of Native peoples everywhere.

NCAI Mourns the Passing of Chairman Arlan D. Melendez, Renowned Leader of the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) extends its heartfelt condolences to the victims, their families, Minnesota’s 11 Tribal Nations, and all Minnesotans mourning the tragic shootings that occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 14, 2025.

We mourn the senseless murders of Speaker Emerita and Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman. Representative Hortman was an exceptional public servant and a staunch advocate for Tribal Nations who championed sovereignty, environmental protection, education equity, and stronger government-to-government ties between the State of Minnesota and Tribal Nations. Her principled leadership left an indelible legacy in Indian Country.

NCAI joins all Minnesotans in hoping and praying for the full recovery of State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, who were both wounded in a related attack.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hortman family, the Hoffmans, their loved ones, and the people of Minnesota,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “Speaker Hortman was a true partner to Tribal Nations. Her legacy of respect, collaboration, and advocacy will not be forgotten. In this moment, we must unite to support all those impacted by these devastating acts of senseless and tragic violence.”

According to acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota, Joseph Thompson, multiple other Minnesota state lawmakers were targeted by the alleged gunman that morning. NCAI urges federal, state, and local authorities to conduct thorough and transparent investigations into all incidents, ensuring that every fact is brought to light and that those responsible are held fully accountable. We further call on policymakers to strengthen the safeguards that protect public servants and the communities they represent.

NCAI unequivocally condemns violence, especially violence directed at public officials whose duty is to serve the people. Attacks that target leaders undermine our democratic governmental institutions, jeopardize community safety, and erode the trust that is essential to all healthy communities and their government-to-government relationships. NCAI stands in solidarity with the families of the victims, Tribal Nations, and the people of Minnesota in this time of profound loss. We share in the sorrow felt by all Minnesotans. Together, we recommit ourselves to justice, unity, and the preservation of peace across Indian Country and beyond.

NCAI Mourns the Tragic Loss of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and Violence Impacting Minnesota Leaders

NCAI resolutions are one of the policy mechanisms used to express the organizational positions on tribal, federal, state, and/or local legislation, litigation, and policy matters that affect tribal governments or communities. All of NCAI’s advocacy work is guided by the 

. Only Individual Indian members in good standing with NCAI may submit a resolution for consideration.

Policy resolutions are now being accepted for the 2025 Mid Year Convention. To prepare your submission, please download the Resolutions template 

. You may submit resolutions through our online portal 

The deadline to submit resolutions is Monday, May 12, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Please note that all resolutions for Mid Year must be emergency in nature and national in scope. Please read the instructions in the form for more detailed information.

Please note that this portal is not for Tribal Delegate Resolutions, which should be emailed to 

Policy Resolutions: Now Accepting Submissions for NCAI’s Mid Year Convention & Marketplace

 | The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) proudly announces Mary Parker as our new Director of Communications. With over a decade of experience in public affairs, strategic messaging, stakeholder engagement, and tribal consultations, Ms. Parker brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record that will strengthen NCAI’s commitment to serving as the unified voice for Indian Country.

Ms. Parker joins NCAI following over six years at the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), where she served as Public Affairs Manager and official spokesperson. In this role, she led public affairs initiatives, oversaw media relations, and managed the agency’s brand identity. Her leadership extended to supervising cross-functional teams and leading instructional design efforts to ensure clear and effective communications with Tribal Nations and the broader public.

Ms. Parker is a recipient of multiple leadership awards recognizing her dedication and impact, including being named to the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s prestigious "40 Under 40" list in 2020. Ms. Parker has an impressive academic background as well. She holds a Master’s degree in Administrative Leadership from the University of Oklahoma and is a doctoral candidate in Instructional Systems Design and Technology at Sam Houston State University. Her research focuses on digital equity and Native American education, reflecting her commitment to advancing educational opportunities and access for Native communities.

"Mary’s experience and deep understanding of tribal affairs, combined with her energetic and innovative approach to communications, make her a valuable new addition to our leadership team," said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr. "We are excited to welcome her to the NCAI team and look forward to her insightful leadership in communications as we all continue our work to protect tribal sovereignty and uplift Indian Country."

In her new role, Ms. Parker will lead NCAI’s Communications Department, shaping the organization’s strategic messaging, strengthening media engagement, and ensuring NCAI continues to provide timely and impactful information to Tribal Nations, policymakers, and the public. Ms. Parker is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation.

Please join us in welcoming Mary Parker to the NCAI team!

NCAI Welcomes Mary Parker as Director of Communications

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is excited to share a new 

 jointly launched with a coalition of over 20 national tribal organizations. This hub was established by the Coalition to safeguard Indian Country's interests against ongoing executive orders and federal funding cuts, offering a wealth of resources to support Tribal Nations and communities.

Administrative and Congressional Letters:

 Stay informed with critical communications, including letters to House and Senate leadership on budget reconciliation, and letters to federal agencies such as the BIA, SBA, DoD, Treasury, HUD, OPM, DOI, EPA, HHS, and DHS.

 Participate in data collection to track the real-time impacts of federal policy changes. Surveys include initiatives from NARF, NIHB, NIEA, NICWA, and the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

 Access valuable tools such as talking points, framing papers, joint organization letters, and templates to aid your advocacy efforts as they become available.

 Find information about upcoming consultations, emergency strategy sessions, and the latest news stories impacting Indian Country, including executive orders, federal policies, and national developments.

This hub is a powerful tool for those working to uphold the nation-to-nation relationship between Tribal Nations and the United States. We encourage you to explore these resources, share your experiences through the surveys, and join us in advocating for the protection of tribal sovereignty and community well-being.


Visit the new Tribal Org Coalition Hub and Explore Vital Resources for Indian Country

View adopted resolutions from the 2024 Annual Convention. 

2024 Annual Adopted Resolutions 

The NCAI 2024 Executive Council Winter Session Wrap-Up Report is Now Available!

Last month, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) brought together Tribal Nations from across the United States for the prestigious 2024 State of Indian Nations Address and its legislative conference, the 2024 Executive Council Winter Session (ECWS).

A standout moment of this year's conference was the 2024 State of Indian Nations address, delivered by newly elected NCAI President Mark Macarro. In his visionary speech, President Macarro outlined priorities aimed at advancing Tribal Nations' interests and strengthening nation-to-nation relationships with the United States. Throughout the week, tribal delegates also had the invaluable opportunity to hear from members of Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration, gaining insights into their strategies for addressing key challenges facing tribal communities. Read the Wrap-Up Report below to dive into the enriching discussions, impactful initiatives, and collaborative efforts that shaped this year’s ECWS.

 NCAI 2024 Executive Council Winter Session Wrap-Up Report Now Available!

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is proud to announce Geoffrey Blackwell (Chickasaw, Choctaw, Omaha, and Muscogee Creek) as the organization’s new general counsel and chief of staff. In this dual role, Blackwell will lead NCAI’s legal strategies and oversee the efficient operation of NCAI.

“We are thrilled to welcome Geoffrey Blackwell to NCAI,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “His extensive expertise in federal Indian law and policy, coupled with his deep-rooted commitment to serving Tribal Nations, make him an invaluable addition to our leadership team. With him at the helm of our legal efforts and as chief of staff, we are confident in our ongoing advocacy for Tribal Nations.”

Blackwell brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to NCAI, following eight years of service as the chief strategy officer and general counsel for AMERIND. Blackwell was the founding chief of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Office of Native Affairs and Policy, where he spearheaded efforts to bring modern communication technologies to tribal communities nationwide. In 2000, he also made history as the first enrolled member of a federally recognized Tribal Nation to work at the FCC. Blackwell has played a pivotal role in advocating for broadband policy on behalf of Tribal Nations and, in 2020, was honored as a co-recipient of Public Knowledge’s IP3 Internet Protocol Award.

In addition to his role as general counsel and chief of staff, Blackwell maintains active engagement in various national organizations. He serves on the boards of the Native American Rights Fund and the American Indian Policy Institute at Arizona State University. He has also dedicated his efforts to assisting Tribal Nations through involvement with the National Small Business Association, National Federation of Community Broadcasters, Native Public Media, Acoma Business Enterprises, and the Indigenous Commission for Communications Technologies in the Americas. Additionally, within NCAI, he assumes leadership responsibilities as co-chair of both the Economic, Finance, and Community Development Committee and the Technology and Telecommunications Subcommittee.

Raised in Oklahoma and New Mexico, Blackwell comes from a family deeply involved in tribal leadership and federal service dedicated to Indian Country. He is a graduate of Dartmouth College and the University of Virginia School of Law.

About the National Congress of American Indians:

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 and communities, 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. For more information visit 

National Congress of American Indians Announces Geoffrey Blackwell as General Counsel and Chief of Staff

Yesterday, the Senate passed the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA) Reauthorization bill as an attached amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023 by a vote of 86-11. NAHASDA, which has not been reauthorized since 2013, is the largest and most effective federal housing program that assists Tribal Nations in providing safe, quality and affordable housing to American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities.

“Our homes are the synergy in sustaining our living systems as tribes, including economy. NAHASDA has been a successful and supportive program of that since its inception. NAHASDA is the mechanism for self-determination in tribal housing. Its enactment allows tribes to create their own Indian Housing Plan, where they can prioritize senior assisted housing, rental assistance or homeownership. Reauthorization of NAHASDA means increased programming resources and stronger accountability. Adequate housing is vital to sustainability of tribal communities. This passage represents strong bipartisanship efforts to recognize trust responsibility and further supports self-determination of tribes,” said NAIHC Executive Director Chelsea Fish.

“Native communities continue to lag behind the rest of the country in safe, affordable, and accessible housing. A simple but critically important step to combat this issue is to reauthorize and make permanent NAHASDA, and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) applauds its passage in the Senate,” noted NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “NAHASDA’s overwhelmingly bipartisan passage in the Senate is a victory for Indian Country, and now the focus must turn to the House to fully realize this victory so that we can improve the lives of those living in our communities.”

NAIHC and NCAI join all of Indian Country in thanking Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Chairman Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Vice Chair Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for introducing amendment #1078 to reauthorize NAHASDA, and commend all those who have worked on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs over the years for their persistent efforts to improve this legislation and for the betterment of Indian Country. NAIHC, NCAI, will continue to work together—and with other partners—to advocate for passage of NAHASDA in the House and for its full implementation across Indian Country.



About the National American Indian Housing Council:

The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) is member organization that represents the unified voice of tribal housing programs across the nation. Established in 1974, NAIHC has a long-respected history of providing effective advocacy and quality training and technical assistance as well as hosting annual events that showcase best practices from tribal housing programs across the country. NAIHC advocates for tribal self-determination and improving housing conditions in tribal communities by working with tribes, tribal housing authorities, and tribally-designated housing entities (TDHEs). Learn more at

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the United States. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communities, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies. NCAI promotes an understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights. For more information, visit

NAIHC and NCAI Celebrate the Inclusion of NAHASDA in 2023 National Defense Authorization Act

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has issued a statement in response to the Florida Board of Education’s recent 

decision to change its education standards

 for teaching American history. NCAI Treasurer Shannon Holsey provided the following statement:

“Native people are far too familiar with the devastating consequences caused by education systems that have at various times ignored, fabricated, and misrepresented the often painful histories of our people. And as the state of Florida threatens to dangerously alter the history of enslaved people and teach it to generations of future leaders, the National Congress of American Indians stands united with our diverse partners, both Native and non-Native, in shaping a promising future. We firmly believe that it is our responsibility to preserve our unique histories and not allow outsiders to rewrite them on our behalf. Together, we will champion our own history and ensure its accuracy and authenticity."



NCAI Issues Statement in Response to Florida Board of Education's Decision to Change History Teaching Standards

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) expressed disappointment with the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision to reject affirmative action policies in college admissions. NCAI President Fawn Sharp offered the following statement in response:

"Today's Supreme Court decision on affirmative action is exceptionally disappointing and fails to take into account the realities centuries of destructive policies can have on a population. By encouraging Native students to repress their culture and assimilate to Western ways of knowing, the Federal government’s educational policy fostered a spirit of alienation amongst Native youth that has carried across generations and stifled academic achievement--particularly with respect to postsecondary institutions. While everyone deserves to be considered on their merits, it does more harm than good to ignore the fact that Native people were subject to genocide, colonization, and assimilation. Only when these realities are confronted head-on will meaningful progress be made, which is why the National Congress of American Indians will continue to fight to bring visibility to these issues and look for solutions to ensure future generations have access to the education so many of our past generations did not."



The National Congress of American Indians Responds to U.S. Supreme Court’s Rejection of Affirmative Action

Today, Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland formally 

 the development of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative during her remarks at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 2021 Mid Year Conference. The announcement comes one month after the discovery of the remains of 215 children at the Kamloops Indian Residential School in Canada, which prompted NCAI to 

 the need for a formal Commission to study the impacts of the federal Indian Boarding School Policy in the United States.

NCAI President Fawn Sharp issued the following statement:

“The National Congress of American Indians commends the Department of Interior for taking the essential first step of providing an official account of the atrocities that Native children experienced during the boarding school era. By documenting who, what, when and where these egregious abuses occurred, Native families may not be able to fully heal, but they may be able to begin to reconcile with the past. Many mothers, fathers, siblings, and children of boarding school victims and survivors have walked on without ever knowing the full extent of what happened to their loved ones. But knowledge is power. By learning the truth, we can finally begin reconciling the past and healing for the future.”



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 and communities, 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. For more information, visit

NCAI President Sharp Addresses Today’s Announcement of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative

       WASHINGTON D.C.—On June 22, 2023, the United States Supreme Court refused to hold the United States accountable for water rights it holds in trust for the Navajo Nation. The Court’s decision in Arizona v. Navajo Nation held that the United States did not have an affirmative treaty or trust obligation to identify and account for Navajo Nation water rights in the Colorado River. While the Court agreed Tribal Nations indeed have water rights under the Winters doctrine, the Court nevertheless concluded there was no obligation to take steps to secure, or even identify, the water needed for the reservation. Winters rights, confirmed in the Winters case, are water rights tribal nations have to ensure their reservations are livable and productive.

       “The U.S. government excluded Navajo tribal citizens from receiving a share of water when the original apportioning occurred and today’s Supreme Court decision for Arizona v. Navajo Nation condoned this lack of accountability,” said Native American Rights Fund (NARF) 

. “Despite today’s ruling, Tribal Nations will continue to assert their water rights and NARF remains committed to that fight.”

       Thirty-seven tribal governments, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, and the San Luis Rey Indian Water Authority filed an 

 in support of the Navajo Nation in February 2023. The brief urged the Court to respect the Winters water rights doctrine and enforce the trust relationship under which the United States has an obligation to assure water for the Navajo Reservation.


       "Water is necessary for all life, and when our ancestors negotiated agreements with the United States to secure our lands and our protection, water was understood and still is understood to be inseparable from the land and from our peoples Today, the Supreme Court has once again assisted in the United States' centuries-long attempts to try to get out of the promises they have made to Tribal Nations by stating that treaties only secure access to water, but do not require the United States to take any steps to protect or provide that water to our people. While this decision is a setback, through unity and vigilant advocacy, will continue to defend our sovereignty and preserve our cultures and ways of life,” said 


       The amicus brief was filed by Professor Whiteman Runs Him; Professor Monte Mills, Native American Law Center at the University of Washington School of Law; Professor Dylan R. Hedden-Nicely, University of Idaho College of Law; and 

Founded in 1970, NARF is the oldest and largest non-profit dedicated to asserting and defending the rights of Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and individual Indians nationwide. For the past 48 years, NARF has represented over 275 Tribes in 31 states in such areas as tribal jurisdiction, federal recognition, land claims, hunting and fishing rights, religious liberties, and voting rights. For more information, visit www.narf.org.

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the United States. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communities, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies. NCAI promotes an understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights. For more information, visit www.ncai.org.

Joint Statement: U.S. Supreme Court decision leaves Navajo Nation still battling for water rights in Arizona v. Navajo Nation

We are overcome with joy that the Supreme Court has upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), which is widely regarded as the 

 of child welfare. To fully understand the implications of this decision, we are conducting a thorough legal review and will provide in-depth analysis this afternoon.

One thing is certain: ICWA is crucial for the safety and well-being of Native children and families and the future of Native peoples and Tribal Nations. The positive impact of today’s decision will be felt across generations.




The Protect ICWA Campaign (the Campaign) was established by four national Native organizations: the 

National Indian Child Welfare Association

. Together, the Campaign works to serve and support Native children, youth, and families through upholding the Indian Child Welfare Act. The Campaign works to inform policy, legal, and communications strategies with the mission to uphold and protect ICWA.

Protect ICWA Campaign Initial Statement on Brackeen Supreme Court Decision

 is a massive victory for Native children, Native families, and the future of Native peoples. The Court’s decision affirmed that the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is constitutional, puts the best interests of Native kids first, and is grounded in tribal sovereignty. This ruling respects the work that Tribal Nations have done for millennia to ensure Native kids stay connected to their families, communities, and cultures whenever possible.

Not only will this ruling allow Indian Country to continue to advocate for the best interests of Native children, but it also reaffirms what we have said and known all along: Tribal Nations are sovereign nations. Similar to states or foreign countries, Tribal Nations have the inherent powers of self-government and have the right to provide for the social, economic, safety, and cultural needs of their citizens.

For too long, ICWA’s opponents have used cases like Haaland v. Brackeen to try to undermine tribal sovereignty. Today, the Justices have sent a clear message that these biased, ahistorical attacks have no legal foundation and will not be tolerated. We hope this decision will lay to rest the political attacks, but let this case show that Indian Country and its many bipartisan allies are united in defense of Native children and of tribal sovereignty.

Today’s ruling is a ringing endorsement of the protections that ICWA requires. The ruling reinforces that ICWA is binding federal law. The court’s opinion adds momentum to collective efforts to increase ICWA compliance, enact state-based ICWA laws that build on ICWA’s strong foundation, and continue to support tribal child welfare and justice systems.

Indian Country stands together in joy with the countless allies who have supported us throughout this case.

Statement from NCAI President Fawn Sharp:

"This victory now means the extraordinary vision of Tribal Leaders who fought so long and hard to pass ICWA in 1978 is now perfected and will be the law of the land for generations to come. Our children, our future and our very existence as Native people will no doubt continue to survive and thrive just as our Creator intended and ancestors envisioned. Our prayers were answered and today we honor every voice that joined us to make clear Tribal Nations have an inherent sovereign right to protect the interests of our children and future."



The Protect ICWA Campaign (the Campaign) was established by four national Native organizations: the 

In a major win for Native families, Supreme Court Upholds the Constitutionality of ICWA

photo project provides a way for Native people to share these words

. Native people are encouraged to send in pictures of themselves holding signs with whatever it is that they are proud to be. It also provides a way for non-Native people to show their support. All non-Native people are asked to use the same language: #ProudToBe Standing With #NotYourMascot. This is a national movement of Americans across the country, Native and non-Native alike, who are standing against racism and demanding change. S

imon Moya-Smith (Oglala Lakota Nation) wrote about the effort at CNN.com, read it here: “

 Join us – share what you are #ProudToBe 

NCAI and ChangeTheMascot.org wants to thank the dozens of individuals – both Native and not – who have already participated in this effort. They are joined by 

 who have all been champions of this effort and who were all eager to show their support of this project. We welcome all those who would like to participate: 

Watch the Proud To Be video that started it all.

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