— The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) met today during the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) to advance work on their renewed Declaration of Kinship and Cooperation (“the Declaration”), which was renewed and signed in a ceremony on March 24 of this year. The Declaration is a shared commitment to advancing the rights, well-being, and self-determination of First Peoples across the Canada–United States border.


Building on the momentum of the renewed Declaration, NCAI and AFN leaders met to advance collaboration and Indigenous-led solutions across key commitments. The meeting today focused on Indigenous free trade and border mobility, including the removal of tariffs on Indigenous trade, and the international trade of medicines, cultural, and traditional items related to Indigenous health. Today’s meeting reflects a continued focus on practical actions and collective leadership during a time of evolving political landscapes in both countries.

“Today’s meeting reflects the strength of our renewed kinship and our shared responsibility to act together on behalf of our Nations,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “Our Peoples have always maintained connections across these borders, and through this work with the Assembly of First Nations, we are advancing practical, Indigenous-led solutions that protect our rights, support our well-being, and strengthen the future for generations to come.”


“The First Peoples have always maintained relationships that exist and extend well beyond imposed borders,” said AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “We are joining together to make tangible progress that supports our economies, ensures our people can move freely, and ensures our rights are upheld and respected. Our unity and momentum send a clear message to all governments and Nations: we can work together in partnership to advance solutions that benefit everyone.”

The theme of the 25th session of the UNPFII is 

“Ensuring Indigenous Peoples’ health, including in the context of conflict.”

 The AFN and NCAI recognize the importance of youth in all their work and were actively involved in today’s meeting, leading a session on Indigenous mental wellness, addictions and health.

“As young First Peoples of Canada, we are carrying both the impacts of intergenerational trauma and the strength of our Nations,” said Hanna Sewell, citizen of Batchewana First Nation and member of the AFN National Youth Council. “Our Nations are tackling mental wellness by grounding preventative solutions in our languages, revitalization of traditions, and connections to our sovereign territories. While the world is trying to adapt to the constantly changing geopolitics, young people across the globe are looking for a positive path forward that can benefit us all. We know the solutions that work. Cooperation across colonial borders allows us to share knowledge and build stronger, healthier futures for youth on both sides of the Medicine Line for seven generations to come.”

During the meeting, NCAI and AFN reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation, strengthening advocacy at the international level, and advancing shared priorities through coordinated action. The NCAI and AFN will continue to meet regularly as affirmed in the Declaration. This work reflects a renewed and focused leadership approach rooted in unity, respect, and the enduring kinship among First Peoples.

###

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 a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights. For more information, visit www.ncai.org.

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.

First Nations Leaders from Canada and the United States Demonstrate Unity and Joint Action at UNPFII

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) honors former National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) Vice Chair Jeannie Hovland (Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe) for her longstanding service to Tribal Nations and her broad contributions across Indian Country as she ends her federal service. Hovland has built a career grounded in public service, Tribal leadership, and a deep commitment to strengthening Native communities. At the NIGC — where she served in multiple leadership roles and as Vice Chair since January 17, 2021 — she has helped regulate and protect the integrity of more than 500 Tribal gaming facilities operated by over 245 Tribal Nations across 29 states.

Throughout her time in leadership, Hovland championed Tribal sovereignty, supported the long-term strength of Tribal gaming, and helped ensure that the industry continues to serve as an economic engine for Tribal Nations and their citizens. In recent years, her work has also included elevating awareness around urgent community safety issues, including efforts to combat human trafficking and other threats facing Tribal communities. The NIGC has specifically highlighted her advocacy for protecting Tribal sovereignty, developing the next generation of gaming leaders, and securing federal resources to address these issues.

“Jeannie has been a long-time friend and someone I have respected for many years,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “Her work has never been limited to one lane. She has shown up for Indian Country across many areas — always with professionalism, heart, and a sincere commitment to Indian Country. She understands the responsibility that comes with leadership, and she has carried that responsibility with grace, strength, and consistency. Beyond her diligence and advocacy, I have always appreciated the way she has remained grounded and active in service to Native communities. Her contributions have made a real difference, and we are grateful for all she has done.”

NCAI recognizes that Hovland’s service reflects the kind of leadership that matters deeply in Indian Country: leadership rooted in relationships, accountability, and a clear understanding that the work must always center on supporting Tribal Nations and future generations.

NCAI extends its appreciation to Vice Chair Hovland for her years of service and wishes her continued success in all that lies ahead.

NCAI Honors Former National Indian Gaming Commission Vice Chair Jeannie Hovland

June 14–17, 2026 | Renasant Convention Center

Join us for NCAI's 2026 Mid Year Convention & Marketplace! Work collaboratively with federal partners and Tribal organizations to defend and enhance Tribal sovereignty. 

Tribal leaders, NCAI members, Native youth, and partners from across Indian Country will gather for daily thematic programming featuring plenary panels and breakout sessions highlighting Tribal civic engagement, pertinent legislation and advocacy updates, and Tribal governance best practices.

Register Now for Mid Year 2026

Tribal Leaders Media Training & Communications Fellowship

Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University

Open to Tribal Leaders and Tribal communications professionals, the fellowship provides targeted learning and hands-on practice to increase communication skills and expand media presence to meet their community needs.

Build the skills to amplify your Tribal Nation’s priorities in today’s media landscape.

By the end of this training, participants will know how to:

Create strong narratives, tell compelling stories, and deliver effective messages.

Use their voices and digital tools to advocate for policy change at all levels.

Build and maintain relationships with news outlets and media professionals.


I have never been in a room full of people who look like my cousins, studying communications. I was moved. I felt like I was part of something important and I am a vital piece moving forward.

 Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications, Arizona State University

 includes lunch and snacks for all program days

Transportation to and from the program site, lodging, and additional meals are not included. A room block is available at the U.S. government rate.

 who understand the unique media landscape of Indian Country

 and storytelling techniques to mobilize your communities & advance policy

 reporters, Tribal leaders, and political strategists on the importance of communications.

 and pitch stories that matter while navigating diverse interview environments.

fellows will receive 50% off their registration fee for NCAI's 83rd Annual Convention & Marketplace

 in October 2026 after successful completion of the program.

Register Now for the 2026 Tribal Leaders Media Training & Communications Fellowship

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) celebrates the achievements of Native women leaders of NCAI and across Indian Country. NCAI was established in response to federal termination and assimilation policies with a mission grounded in protecting treaty rights, defending Tribal sovereignty, and uniting Tribal Nations around shared priorities. In 1944, six women attended NCAI’s first convention, contributing to the organization’s formation and representing their Tribal Nations as they adopted resolutions that reflected this purpose.


“NCAI is strong because Native women continue to lead at every level of this organization,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “Every day, the Native women of NCAI demonstrate what leadership looks like in service to Indian Country. We proudly recognize the women whose voices are guiding critical conversations on sovereignty, governance, community well-being, and the future of our Nations. Their service reflects the strength, wisdom, and responsibility that Native women have always carried in Tribal leadership.”


From the very beginning of NCAI’s history, women have served critical roles in advancing that work. NCAI’s earliest leadership included Ruth Muskrat Bronson (Cherokee), who served as the organization’s first Executive Director, followed by other influential leaders including: Helen Peterson (Oglala Sioux), Suzan Shown Harjo (Cheyenne/Muscogee), A. Gay Kingman (Cheyenne River Sioux), Rachel Joseph (Lone Pine Paiute), JoAnn K. Chase (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara), and Jacqueline Johnson Pata (Tlingit). Women have also served across NCAI’s Executive Committee, including in NCAI’s highest elected office: Presidents Veronica L. Homer (Mohave), Susan Masten (Yurok), and Fawn Sharp (Quinault Indian Nation). These women, along with the countless others who have served in leadership positions with NCAI, have helped shape policy advocacy, elevate Tribal priorities on a national stage, strengthen organizational capacity, and move Indian Country forward across generations.


When asked about her experience, former NCAI President Susan Masten said, “It was an honor to be one of only three women to serve as President of NCAI, alongside Veronica Homer and Fawn Sharp. Native women bring strength, wisdom, and compassion to our Nations. Our leadership is rooted in culture and guided by our ancestors. During Women’s History Month, I honor the women who came before us and the young women who will carry our Nations forward.”


Today, the women serving on NCAI’s Executive Committee include Recording Secretary Christie Modlin (Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma), Treasurer Ashley Cornforth (Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community), Midwest Regional Vice President Wendy Merrill (Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe), Pacific Regional Vice President Geneva Mojado (Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians), Southeast Regional Vice President Lora Ann Chaisson (United Houma Nation), and Eastern Oklahoma Alternate Vice President Pamela Shaw (Osage Nation). Their service reflects the enduring strength, vision, and commitment that Native women bring to governance, advocacy, and nation-building.


“When we look across Indian Country, we see the lasting impact of women leaders who have built strong institutions, defended Tribal interests, and created pathways for future generations,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “From the women who helped shape NCAI’s own history to the many women leading Native-serving organizations and Tribal Nations today, their work has advanced policy, protected families, strengthened communities, and helped ensure that our Native voices are heard and represented in every space where decisions are made.”


As NCAI continues its work to protect Tribal sovereignty and uphold nation-to-nation relationships, we honor the women whose leadership has helped define NCAI’s work for more than eight decades. Their contributions are woven into the history of NCAI, the progress of Tribal Nations, and the future of Indian Country.


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 a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights. For more information, visit 

NCAI Honors the Women Who Have Helped Shape Indian Country and Strengthen Tribal Sovereignty

— The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) today renewed their shared commitment to unity, cooperation, and mutual support through a Declaration of Kinship and Cooperation among the Indigenous Peoples and Nations of North America. The declaration was signed during the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s Reservation Economic Summit (RES).

The declaration formalizes collaboration between NCAI and AFN to advance the well-being, rights, and priorities of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and First Nations on issues of shared international concern.

“Though borders were imposed upon our homelands, the relationships among our peoples never ceased,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “Trade did not end. Traditions endured. Our kinship has remained strong across generations. By renewing this declaration with the Assembly of First Nations, we reaffirm that our voices are strongest when we stand together in mutual respect, solidarity, and collective purpose.”

The renewed declaration reflects the enduring ties among Indigenous Nations across North America and strengthens collaboration on shared priorities, including international advocacy, sovereignty, and engagement with future generations of Indigenous leaders.

“With this agreement, we look forward to working alongside President Macarro today and the NCAI in unity, solidarity and friendship to realize the full potential our First Nations economy in North America,” said AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “Despite the risks we face with Canada-US trade and the growth of extremism around the world, I am optimistic because First Nations on both sides of the Medicine Line are already making so much positive change. Unlike colonial governments, our leaders are showing it is still possible to tackle difficult cross-border discussions and shine a light on solutions. United, we can do anything we put our minds to.”

Leaders noted that RES provided an important space to publicly advance this renewed commitment. International convenings like RES create opportunities for Indigenous leaders to strengthen relationships, align priorities, and build momentum for cooperative action across Nations and across borders.

NCAI and AFN emphasized a shared belief that Indigenous youth must remain central to this work, ensuring that future generations inherit strong relationships, strong institutions, and strong pathways for collaboration.

“We are grateful to NCAIED and RES for creating the space for this important moment,” said Macarro. “This renewed declaration is a sacred affirmation that we are, and have always been, relatives — yesterday, today, and forever.”

NCAI and Assembly of First Nations Renew Declaration of Kinship and Cooperation at Reservation Economic Summit

 | As tensions rise across the United States, especially in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the number of incidents where Tribal citizens are being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is increasing.

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is deeply troubled by these and other incidents and encourages Tribal citizens to ensure they are familiar with their rights both as citizens of their Tribal Nations and as citizens of the United States.

The Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has compiled 

Resources for Individuals and Nonprofits Approached by ICE

. This document includes information about Tribal citizen rights if approached at home, work, or in public.

NCAI encourages all Tribal citizens to carry at least one form of legal identification (e.g., non-expired Tribal or state ID, passport, or birth certificate). It is particularly important to note that federal law enforcement may not be familiar with Tribal IDs. If an ICE agent does not accept your Tribal ID as identification, NARF recommends that you request to speak to their supervisor. Native Americans who believe their rights have been violated can call NARF at 303-447-8760.

NCAI stands with Tribal Nations and their citizens across the United States impacted by recent ICE actions and enforcement activity. We will remain unified in supporting Tribes with accurate information, rights-based education, and coordinating resources to protect our communities and Native people.

About the National Congress of American Indians: 

Knowing Your Rights as Citizens of Tribal Nations and the United States

On March 11, 2019, the President released his fiscal year (FY) 2020 budget request to Congress. This broadcast will outline the major proposals included, list the impacts to tribal programs funded in the federal budget, and comment on the outlook for passage of the proposals.

The President’s budget proposes reducing FY 2020 non-defense discretionary (NDD) funding by $54 billion (9 percent) below the FY 2019 level, and by $69 billion (11 percent) after adjusting for inflation. The proposed amount follows the cap set by the Budget Control Act (BCA) of 2011 and which was lowered through sequestration. The proposed decreases to NDD accounts would undermine the ability of the federal government to meet its treaty and trust obligations, with the proposed budget cutting Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education (BIA/BIE) by about 10.5 percent compared to the 2019 continuing resolution level. Other agencies would see cuts of 12 percent for the Department of Health and Human Services, 18 percent for Housing and Urban Development, and 31 percent for the Environmental Protection Agency. See the attached 

 for details of proposed funding for tribal programs by department. 

House Budget Chairman John Yarmuth will be writing a FY 2020 budget resolution which will set discretionary spending limits higher than the current caps. Without a caps deal, the House is likely to pass a deeming resolution, which is used when the House and Senate have not agreed on a budget resolution. Under this deemed budget resolution, the House could begin writing appropriations bills. In the Senate, Budget Chairman Enzi is expected to write the budget resolution abiding by the statutory caps used in the President’s budget. For the Senate to consider spending bills on the floor, the body would have to set enforceable spending limits in a deeming resolution. House Majority Leader Hoyer, (D-MD), has raised the possibility of the two chambers agreeing to spending limits to allow the appropriations process to move forward. Whether Senate Republicans break from the President’s proposal will determine the outcome of such a spending limit agreement. The President’s budget is just the beginning of the appropriations process. Congress has the final say. 

NCAI encourages tribal leaders and advocates to submit testimony to the respective appropriations committee in the House (testimony instructions

for other subcommittees) and the Senate (when the instructions become available).

· Indian Guaranteed Loan Program: No funds are requested for new loan guarantees under the program, -$8.4 million from the FY19 CR amount 

· Housing Improvement Program, -$9.7 million FY19 CR amount 

· Small and Needy Tribes, -$4.5 million from the FY19 CR amount 

· Tribal Climate Resilience, -$9.9 million from the FY19 CR amount 

· Indian Community Development Block Grant 

· Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) 

· Community Service Block Grants Education Department Eliminations 

· Strengthening AN/NH-Serving Institutions 

· The President’s budget request for tribal programs at DOJ would increase funding overall. The increase would come as a result of a proposed 7 percent set-aside for tribal governments from across Office of Justice Programs discretionary programs. 

· The Indian Health Service budget (IHS) request for FY 2020 is $5.9 billion, which is $392 million or 7 percent above FY 2019. 

President’s FY 2020 Budget Released

House Judiciary Committee Approves Tribal Provisions at Markup of H.R. 1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2019

 | Today, the House Judiciary Committee held a markup of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2019 (H.R. 1585) and reported it favorably out of Committee. This legislation increases safety for Native victims by building on the landmark provision included in the Violence Against Women Act 2013 (VAWA) that created a framework for tribal governments to prosecute non-Indians for the first time since 

 Currently tribes can prosecute non-Indians only for domestic violence, dating violence, and criminal violations of protection orders. Section 903 of H.R. 1585 would add child abuse, sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, obstruction of justice, and assaults against law enforcement officers to the crimes that tribes can prosecute against non-Indians. The legislation would also expand tribal access to federal criminal databases and create a pilot project aimed at addressing the unique challenges in Alaska.

H.R. 1585 was approved on a party line vote, with Democrats voting in favor of the legislation and Republicans voting against it. Juana Majel-Dixon, Co-Chair for the Task Force on Violence Against Women and Recording Secretary at National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) responded to the favorable outcome of the Bill stating, “We applaud the Committee for approving this important legislation, which would enhance safety for victims in Indian Country.” She also thanked the Committee for rejecting an amendment that would have repealed the tribal jurisdiction provisions included in the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, saying “I was disheartened, and frankly appalled, to see an amendment offered that would have stripped tribal governments of their inherent authority to hold non-Indians accountable for domestic violence crimes on tribal lands. With more than 4 in 5 Native women experiencing domestic violence in their lifetimes, now is not the time to go back to a system that allows non-Indians to prey on Native women with impunity. I am grateful that a majority of the Committee members agree.”

As NCAI noted in its written testimony to the Subcommittee on Crime, examination of the tribes’ exercise of jurisdiction over non-Indian domestic violence offenders suggests that it is working as Congress intended—the law has enhanced the ability of tribal governments to combat domestic violence against Native women, while at the same time protecting non-Indians’ rights in impartial, tribal forums. By exercising this jurisdiction, many tribal communities have increased safety and justice for victims who had previously seen little of either.

The Committee also considered an amendment offered by Representative Sheila Jackson Lee that directs the Attorney General and Secretary of the Interior to submit an annual report to Congress on missing and murdered Indian women and provides recommendations for how to improve data collection in this area. The amendment was approved with bipartisan support.

 also informed the Subcommittee of the adoption of a 

 which sets forth five priorities for reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act in 2019. The five priorities identified by NCAI are all largely addressed by H.R. 1585.

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 Native Organizations Unite and Urge the President and Congress to Re-Open the Government

 | On the 20th day of the government shutdown, eight national Native organizations are jointly urging the President and Congress to immediately end the partial government shutdown, which breaks the treaty and trust obligations the federal government owes to tribal nations. The organizations jointly 

 to Congress and the President outlining the wide-ranging impacts of the shutdown on Indian Country.

America’s longstanding, legally-mandated obligations to tribal nations should be honored no matter the political quarrels of the moment. “During this shutdown, Congress and the President are putting the well-being of our tribal nations and our citizens in jeopardy. As governmental leaders, we know that it is simply not an option to stop serving our citizens. On behalf of Indian Country, we urge the President and Congress to do their jobs and reopen the government immediately,” said National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Jefferson Keel.

On tribal lands, the federal government assumed the responsibility to provide basic governmental services like health care, public safety, and education as a part of its treaty negotiations with tribal nations. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Indian Health Service (IHS), the primary agencies responsible for providing these services, either directly or through compact and contracts with tribal governments, are both currently hamstrung by the shutdown. The shutdown has a range of impacts throughout Indian Country:

“Unrelated political battles are abrogating the treaties and agreements signed by our ancestors, curtailing health care programs, and causing our people to suffer. When possible, tribal governments are cutting other services and scraping together scarce dollars to keep health clinics operational, but this is not sustainable. The shutdown is destabilizing Native health delivery and health care provider access; as well as destabilizing Tribal Governments, families, children and individuals. Services will be cut, and loss of life will be the result if this shutdown is not ended soon,” said National Indian Health Board (NIHB) Chief Executive Officer Stacy A. Bohlen.

“Urban Indian Health Programs (UIHPs) are an integral part of the health care delivery system for Native peoples. These UIHPs depend on funding from IHS to provide care to urban Native people. However, when IHS is shutdown, we do not receive critical funding and the detrimental impacts on our patients are immediate and significant. Medical staff layoffs, reduction in health services provided, and clinic closure will follow if funding is not restored,” said National Council on Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) President Maureen Rosette.

“This shutdown jeopardizes the future of thousands of Native students and creates undue immediate hardship for BIE systems to ensure the safety of Native students and support nutrition programs that feed the minds of tomorrow. Creating safe and positive learning environments for our Native children and youth to thrive is a priority for Native communities. The price of this shutdown must not be paid by our children. NIEA urges the President and Congress to re-open the government immediately,” said National Indian Education Association (NIEA) President Robin Butterfield.

“Tribal housing programs rely on federal funding to fulfill the United States’ trust and treaty responsibilities, so a prolonged shutdown will only limit a tribal nation’s ability to provide housing opportunities in their communities. Some programs may shut down entirely until new funding is available, while others may be able to stretch out their dollars by providing minimal services to their members. Many tribal members are unable to attain the dream of homeownership because their Section 184 loan is unable to be closed. With the BIA included in the shutdown, leases cannot be approved for rehabilitation work on homes or title reports for home loans,” said National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) Chairman Gary Cooper.

“Native children and families are feeling the effect of the partial government shutdown. Children who are involved in the child welfare system, particularly children in foster care, are significantly impacted. Without funds for the tribal programs that support Native children and families, it is difficult for tribal child welfare workers to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens receive the supports they need outside of our tribal services,” said National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) President Gil Vigil.

“The federal government shutdown puts many of our economic development plans and activities in jeopardy as federal agencies must review and approve permits and other documents before tribal governments can proceed with their planned activities. The effects of delayed or lost economic development opportunities will be felt by tribal governments and their citizens long after the government reopens,” said Self-Governance Communication & Education (SGCE) Chairman W. Ron Allen.

“The government shutdown hurts more than just federal employees- it impacts local economies, small businesses, and the contractors who work tirelessly side by side with federal employees to help federal agencies accomplish the work. We call for an end to the shutdown and would like to see all federal contractors who have been impacted restored in the same manner as federal employees. Small businesses cannot afford to absorb the economic cost and impacts of a government shutdown,” said Kimberly Teehee, President, Native American Contractors Association

Tribal nations are resilient and provide services to around 2 million people; however, we cannot continue to provide for our communities without our federal partners. The long-term effects of this shutdown will ripple throughout our communities for months or even years following the reopening of the government. We urge the President and Congress to end this government stalemate, fulfill their trust and treaty promises to tribal nations, and invest in the future of all Americans.

For more information, contact the following:

National Indian Child Welfare Association

Self-Governance Communication & Education Tribal Consortium

WASHINGTON, D.C. | Today, in a 369-47 vote, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 2018 Farm Bill, which includes a historic number of tribal provisions.

“NCAI applauds the work of the Conference Committee; Senate and House Agriculture Committee leadership Chairman Pat Roberts, Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow, Chairman Mike Conaway, and Ranking Member Collin Peterson; and Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Chairman John Hoeven and Vice Chairman Tom Udall for their tireless commitment to the passage of this bill,” said NCAI President Jefferson Keel. “This legislation recognizes the governmental status of tribal nations and the role tribal growers and producers have in the food systems and resource management practices that affect the daily lives of all Americans. We look forward to President Trump’s swift signing into law of the 2018 Farm Bill.”

The passage of the 2018 Farm Bill in the House comes on the heels of the U.S. Senate passing the bill in an 87-13 vote on Tuesday, which followed the release of the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report by the House-Senate Conference Committee late on Monday.

Coordinating closely with tribal nations, the Native Farm Bill Coalition, tribal organizations, and other partners, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) worked to ensure that the voices of our tribal leaders, citizens, and communities were heard and recognized.

Below is a list of key provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill that will benefit Indian Country:

Expansion of Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act contracting authority (638 authority) to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations;

Expansion of 638 authority for Tribal Forest Protection Act management activities at USDA and the U.S. Department of the Interior, as well as eligibility for tribal nations to exercise Good Neighbor authority for forest management agreements with USDA and states (both of these measures will help tribal nations prevent wildfires from spreading from federal lands to tribal forest lands);

Establishment of a Tribal Advisory Committee at USDA to identify issues and make recommendations to the Secretary; and

Recognition that the Office of Tribal Relations is an important function of USDA that should be within the Office of the Secretary.

The 2018 Farm Bill will now head to the President for his signature.

For more information about the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report, read the House and Senate Agriculture Committees’ full press release 

 and the full Farm Bill Conference Report 

For more information about the individual tribal provisions, visit the Native Farm Bill Coalition website 

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 Applauds Congress for Passing Strong 2018 Farm Bill for Indian Country

Statement from the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA), the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Native American Rights Fund (NARF), and the Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA) about the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) judgment stay pending appeal:

“Yesterday’s decision to stay the District Court’s ruling in Brackeen v. Zinke pending appeal to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals is welcome news for Indian children and families, especially in states like Texas where efforts already were underway to remove ICWA’s protections. ICWA remains the law of the land and applicable in all 50 states. The critical work between states and tribes to apply the ‘gold standard in child welfare’ by keeping Indian children with their family and community will continue.”

NCAI President Jefferson Keel (Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma) said:

“The stay granted yesterday by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals is a welcome and positive step. It means that no Indian child who encounters the child welfare system in Texas, Indiana and Louisiana during this time should be denied the protections and safeguards afforded them under the Indian Child Welfare Act. NCAI will continue to support the intervening Tribal Nations and the Department of Justice as they fight to protect the best interests of all Indian children across the United States through the Indian Child Welfare Act.”

NARF Staff Attorney Dan Lewerenz (Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska) said:

“The Fifth Circuit made the right decision. ICWA is not some new, unimplemented statute that can be set aside without repercussions. It is an Act of Congress, 40 years tried and true, that is intricately woven into state and tribal child welfare systems. Its unraveling would have had serious and harmful effects on dozens, if not hundreds, of Native children. We’re glad that the Fifth Circuit recognizes that.”

About the National Indian Child Welfare Association: The National Indian Child Welfare Association works to support the safety, health, and spiritual strength of Native children along the broad continuum of their lives. NICWA promotes building tribal capacity to prevent child abuse and neglect through positive systems change at the state, federal, and tribal level. For more information, visit 

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 

About the Association on American Indian Affairs: AAIA is the oldest non-profit serving Indian Country protecting sovereignty, preserving culture, educating youth and building capacity. The Association was formed in 1922 to change the destructive path of federal policy from assimilation, termination and allotment, to sovereignty, self-determination and self-sufficiency. Throughout its 96-year history, the Association has provided national advocacy on watershed issues that support sovereignty and culture, while working at the grassroots level with Tribes to support the implementation of programs that improve lives on the ground. For more information, visit 

About the Native American Rights Fund: Since 1971, the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has provided legal assistance to Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals nationwide who might otherwise have gone without adequate representation. Throughout its history, NARF has impacted tens of thousands of Indian people in its work for more than 250 tribes. NARF has defended the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) for decades, and will continue to do so. For more information, visit 

Joint Statement on the Fifth Circuit Granting the Motion to Stay the District Court’s Decision on the Indian Child Welfare Act—The Gold Standard Remains Applicable in All 50 States

Joint Statement on the United States Department of Justice’s Decision to Defend the Indian Child Welfare Act

—Statement from the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA), the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), and the Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA) regarding the United States Department of Justice’s decision to defend the Indian Child Welfare Act.

On Friday, November 30, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), on behalf of the Departments of Interior and Health and Human Services and their officers, filed a notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, challenging a decision by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas that found the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and its regulations were unconstitutional. NICWA, NCAI, NARF, and AAIA applaud the United States’ decision. The Department of Justice joins the four intervenor tribal government defendants—Cherokee Nation, Morongo Band of Mission Indians, Oneida Nation, and Quinault Indian Nation—who filed their notice of appeal on November 19.

Sarah Kastelic, executive director of NICWA, had this comment:

“We applaud the Department of Justice for standing up for Native children and families by continuing to vigorously defend ICWA. The Department’s action sends a strong and clear message that tribal nations, as governments, have a role in protecting Native children from abuse and neglect; helping families receive the support services they need; and ensuring children stay connected to their families, culture, and communities.”

“The Department of Justice’s appeal of this egregious decision is consistent with its trust responsibility to tribal nations under the Constitution and Congress’ intent in passing the Indian Child Welfare Act 40 years ago. NCAI stands ready to assist the intervening Tribal Nations and DOJ in any way possible to uphold ICWA as the foundational law that protects the best interests of Native children in state foster care systems.”

“The Native American Rights Fund is glad to see that the United States has joined the Tribal Defendants (Cherokee Nation, Morongo Band of Mission Indians, Oneida Nation, and Quinault Indian Nation) in this appeal,” said NARF staff attorney Dan Lewerenz. “It is shocking that the lower court would so casually set aside an Act of Congress that has been in effect for 40 years, and would rely on such novel reinterpretations of Supreme Court precedent to do so. Congress spent years investigating and drafting the Indian Child Welfare Act, and in doing so conscientiously weighed the constitutional issues at stake. We are glad that the United States will continue to defend the constitutionality of this critical statute, which has helped to preserve so many thousands of Indian families.”

Shannon Keller O’Loughlin, executive director of AAIA, said:

“AAIA membership includes American Indian and Alaska Native peoples as well as members of the public. AAIA’s membership supports the continued and consistent implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act as the only mandate protecting Indian children and families from the sins and racism inherent in some state institutions and recognizing the inherent sovereignty of Tribes to care for the health, safety, and welfare of Indian families. AAIA is grateful for the United States’ support of its fiduciary obligations to our Indian children and families.”

About the National Indian Child Welfare Association

The National Indian Child Welfare Association works to support the safety, health, and spiritual strength of Native children along the broad continuum of their lives. NICWA promotes building tribal capacity to prevent child abuse and neglect through positive systems change at the state, federal, and tribal level. For more information, visit 

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 

About the Association on American Indian Affairs:

AAIA is the oldest non-profit serving Indian Country protecting sovereignty, preserving culture, educating youth and building capacity. The Association was formed in 1922 to change the destructive path of federal policy from assimilation, termination and allotment, to sovereignty, self-determination and self-sufficiency. Throughout its 96-year history, the Association has provided national advocacy on watershed issues that support sovereignty and culture, while working at the grassroots level with Tribes to support the implementation of programs that improve lives on the ground. For more information, visit 

Since 1971, the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has provided legal assistance to Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals nationwide who might otherwise have gone without adequate representation. Throughout its history, NARF has impacted tens of thousands of Indian people in its work for more than 250 tribes. NARF has defended the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) for decades, and will continue to do so. For more information, visit 

Application deadline is 9:00 p.m. EDT, Feb. 26, 2019

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Justice today announced the opening of the grant solicitation period for comprehensive funding to Indian Country to support crime prevention, victim services, and coordinated community responses to violence against native women.

The Department’s FY 2019 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation, or CTAS, posts today online at 

www.justice.gov/tribal/open-solicitations

. The solicitation contains details about available grants and describes how federally-recognized tribes, tribal consortia and Alaska Native villages can apply for the funds.

“Public safety professionals serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities frequently find themselves under-resourced and over-extended,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Jesse Panuccio. “This funding will give tribal officials the tools they need to fight violent crime, protect their citizens, serve victims, and deliver justice.”

The funding from the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), Office for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office), and the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) can be used to for a variety of public safety and justice-related projects and services. Funds can be used to enhance law enforcement; bolster adult and juvenile justice systems; prevent and control juvenile delinquency; serve native victims of crimes such as child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and elder abuse; improve responses to violence against native women; and support other efforts to combat crime.

New to FY 2019 CTAS is funding designated specifically to address violent crime in native communities (Purpose Area 10). Additionally, the Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program will be replaced by the Tribal Victim Services Program (Purpose Area 7) in FY 2019. This new program will provide funding to a higher number of applicants and provides funding for a broad range of activities, including a needs assessment, strategic planning, program development and implementation, program expansion, and other actions to address the victim service needs of tribes.

Applications for CTAS are submitted online through the Department’s Grants Management System, or “GMS.” Applicants must register with GMS prior to submitting an application. The application deadline is 9 p.m. EDT, Feb. 26, 2019. Applicants will submit a single application and select from any or all of the 10 competitive grant programs, referred to as “purpose areas.” This approach allows the Department’s grant-making components to consider the totality of a tribal nation’s overall public safety needs.

COPS Office’s Public Safety and Community Policing

Comprehensive Tribal Justice Systems Strategic Planning

BJA’s Tribal Justice System Infrastructure Program

OVW’s Violence Against Women Tribal Governments Program

OVC’s Children’s Justice Act Partnerships for Indian Communities

OJJDP’s Juvenile Tribal Healing to Wellness Courts

BJA’s Addressing Violent Crime in Native Communities

Fact sheets detailing each of the individual purpose areas can be found online at: 

. The Department will also facilitate a series of webinars to guide applicants through the CTAS application requirements. Details, including how to register for these webinars, will be made available online in coming weeks at 

Additionally, tribes and tribal consortia may also be eligible for non-tribal federal grant programs and are encouraged to explore other funding opportunities, which may be found at DOJ’s Tribal Justice and Safety website at 

 across nine grant programs totaling more than $113 million.

CTAS is administered by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services and Office on Violence Against Women.

Today’s announcement is part of the DOJ’s ongoing initiative to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in tribal communities.

If you have questions, please use the contacts in the message or call the Office of Public Affairs at 202-514-2007.

Justice Department Announces Funding Opportunities to Support Public Safety in Indian Country

Today, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA) filed a “friend of the Court” brief supporting the ongoing legal challenge to the Administration’s attempt to diminish most of the Bears Ears National Monument. Five Tribal Nations – the Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation, Ute Indian Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and Zuni Tribe – filed the lawsuit last year, arguing that 

The NCAI-AAIA brief provides a national perspective on the importance of Bears Ears and the perils of the Administration’s unprecedented move. In particular, they identify specific landmarks, structures, and objects of cultural, historic, and religious importance to tribal nations not otherwise represented in the case, including many Pueblos of New Mexico. According to NCAI and AAIA, all these sites and artifacts – many of which are considered sacred – face significant risk of being forever damaged, lost, or destroyed if the Administration’s action is allowed to stand.

NCAI and AAIA also emphasize the unique role Tribal nations played in creating the Bears Ears National Monument. According to their brief, “Bears Ears is the first national monument protected at the request of Tribes and the first to be collectively managed by…representatives from multiple Tribes.” The Administration, however, has attempted to strip away tribal involvement in the management of Bears Ears at the same time the protections themselves are eliminated.

“NCAI’s brief brings together knowledge and perspectives from a wide variety of tribes – to help the Court understand how important Bears Ears is to thousands of Indian citizens,” NCAI General Counsel Derrick Beetso explained. “We especially appreciate the contributions of the All Pueblo Council of Governors – who represent the 20 Pueblos of New Mexico and Texas – in helping us put together critical new information for the Court’s consideration."

“One of AAIA’s primary initiatives is to advocate for the protection of sacred lands and Native American cultural resources,” according to AAIA Executive Director Shannon Keller O’Loughlin. “Without the designation of Bears Ears as a National Monument where Tribal management is a cornerstone to the Monument’s protection, our sacred Bears Ears will be lost to development – and so will our faith in the government-to-government relationship between Tribal nations and the U.S. government.”

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

AAIA is the oldest non-profit serving Indian Country protecting sovereignty, preserving culture, educating youth and building capacity. The Association was formed in 1922 to change the destructive path of federal policy from assimilation, termination and allotment, to sovereignty, self-determination and self-sufficiency. Throughout its 96-year history, the Association has provided national advocacy on watershed issues that support sovereignty and culture, while working at the grassroots level with Tribes to support the implementation of programs that improve lives on the ground. For more information, visit

National Native Organizations NCAI and AAIA File Brief Opposing President Trump’s Attempt to Decimate Bears Ears National Monument

A message from NCAI President Jefferson Keel:

Yesterday marked the 100th Anniversary of the World War I Armistice. Leaders from around the globe gathered at the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile in Paris, France to honor the men and women who served during World War I.

As we celebrate the lives and honor the sacrifice of our Armed Service Members from across time, I wanted to recognize the 10,000 WWI Native American Service Members who put their lives on the line for a country that had yet to grant Native peoples the rights of U.S. Citizenship. We remember these warriors and their willingness to protect this land and all people who live here and thank them for their service.

Our Native communities have always held our warriors in highest esteem. Our dedication to service stems from our roots in having been protectors of this land for thousands of years.

As NCAI President, I am dedicated to the preservation and expansion of tribal Veterans services. Veterans Day is not just about acknowledging the sacrifice all Veterans have made for our freedom, but also about renewing our commitment to providing for their well-being when they return home which means access to healthcare, housing, and other benefits that Veterans earn for their service. It is our duty to show our continued support and advocacy on behalf of Native Veterans and all who serve.

I call upon all of Indian Country to join me in honoring and expressing gratitude to all Veterans and active duty service members of the United States Armed Forces. Having served more than 20 years in the United States Army, I would like to say welcome home to my brothers and sisters in arms.

NCAI Honors Veterans on a Historic Veterans Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. | Today, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Executive Committee adopted an emergency resolution opposing the nomination of Eric Miller to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. NCAI and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) had previously sent a joint letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee expressing their grave concerns about Mr. Miller’s nomination. 

“Our concern is that [Miller] chose to build a law practice on mounting repeated challenges to tribal sovereignty, lands, religious freedom, and the core attribute of federal recognition of tribal existence. His advocacy has focused on undermining the rights of Indian tribes, often taking extreme positions and using pejorative language to denigrate tribal rights. Indeed, his law firm website touts his record, with over half his private practice achievements coming at the expense of tribal governments,” said NCAI and NARF leadership.

Today’s emergency resolution immediately responds to reports that the Senate leadership will proceed with Miller’s nomination hearing during the Congressional recess next week.

“We are gravely concerned that the Committee is planning to consider this nominee at a time when members of Congress are not in D.C. and will not be able to fully examine his record on Indian law issues,” said NCAI President Jefferson Keel. “This is not how a lifetime appointment to a federal court with jurisdiction over 427 federally recognized Indian tribes should be handled.”

Both NCAI and NARF are committed to protecting the rights of tribal governments. For nearly two decades, NCAI and NARF have jointly advocated for the nomination and confirmation of federal judges who, along with their commitment to uphold the Constitution, are committed to the principles of tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, and the federal trust responsibility enshrined within it. Mr. Miller’s record reflects hostility toward tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, and the federal trust responsibility, or their role in the Constitution and federal law.

Read the full NCAI Resolution #DEN-18-042 here along with the joint letter NCAI and NARF sent to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary on August 21, 2018 on questions and concerns regarding Eric Miller’s nomination.

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 www.ncai.org.

Since 1970, the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has provided legal assistance to Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals nationwide who might otherwise have gone without adequate representation. Throughout its history, NARF has impacted tens of thousands of Indian people in its work for more than 250 tribes. NARF has defended the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) for decades, and will continue to do so. For more information, visit 

National Congress of American Indians and Native American Rights Fund Oppose the Nomination of Eric Miller to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

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