WASHINGTON, D.C. – 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.