The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) applauds the nomination of Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This role carries significant responsibility for the safety and security of communities across the country, including Tribal Nations.

The nomination of Senator Mullin (Cherokee Nation) to a cabinet-level position reflects the increasing presence of Native voices in national leadership. Representation matters, and the nomination of a Tribal citizen to such a prominent federal position is significant for Indian Country.

During his time in Congress, Senator Mullin has been a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs (SCIA) and engaged with issues affecting Tribal communities. He has supported efforts to strengthen economic development, infrastructure, and opportunity in Indian Country. Tribal leaders have long emphasized the importance of federal officials understanding the government-to-government relationship between Tribal Nations and the United States, as well as the unique public safety and homeland security challenges that many Tribal communities face.

As the nomination process moves forward, NCAI looks forward to hearing more about Senator Mullin’s priorities for DHS and how he plans to work with Tribal Nations. Robust, timely Tribal consultation and sustained collaboration with Tribal governments will be essential as DHS addresses issues such as border security, emergency management, cybersecurity, and infrastructure protection that affect Tribal lands and citizens.

NCAI remains committed to working with leaders across the federal government and with Congress to ensure that Tribal sovereignty is respected and that the priorities of Tribal Nations are reflected in national policy discussions.

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 

NCAI Applauds Nomination of Senator Markwayne Mullin for U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) mourns the passing of JoAnn K. Chase (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara), a visionary leader and former Executive Director who strengthened NCAI’s national presence and advanced the rights of Tribal Nations across the United States. NCAI extends its deepest condolences to her family, the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, and all who were impacted by her leadership, mentorship, and friendship.

JoAnn Chase served as Executive Director of NCAI and the NCAI Fund from 1994 to 2001. During her tenure, she transformed the organization’s capacity and reach, tripling its staff, operating budget, and Tribal membership. Under her leadership, NCAI became a stronger, more visible, and more effective advocate for Tribal sovereignty in the nation’s capital. She worked closely with Tribal Leaders, Congress, the Executive Branch, and national civil rights organizations to advance policies protecting Tribal self-determination and the rights of Tribal Nations.

“The role of Executive Director is both a privilege and an earned trust – one that requires listening, humility, and unwavering commitment to Tribal sovereignty,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr. “JoAnn carried that trust with honor. Her leadership expanded NCAI’s capacity and strengthened our voice in Washington, and her legacy continues to guide the work we do for Tribal Nations today.”


Prior to serving as Executive Director, Chase held multiple leadership roles at NCAI, including Director of Governmental Affairs and Policy Analyst. Across these positions, she helped design and implement NCAI’s governmental affairs program, shaped public policy advocacy, and strengthened the organization’s legislative engagement on behalf of Tribal governments.

Throughout her distinguished career, Chase remained committed to building inclusive institutions and strengthening Native leadership. Following her tenure at NCAI, she served as Director of the American Indian Environmental Office in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where she provided national leadership on environmental protection and Tribal consultation. She later continued her work in philanthropy, policy, and the arts, championing initiatives that expanded opportunity and representation for Indigenous Peoples and communities of color.


NCAI honors JoAnn Chase’s enduring contributions to Tribal Nations and to the generations of Native leaders who continue the work she helped strengthen. Her legacy lives on in the institutions she helped build and in the continued advancement of Tribal sovereignty across Indian Country.

NCAI Mourns the Passing of JoAnn K. Chase, Former Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians

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) mourns the passing of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, a lifelong champion for civil rights and human dignity whose leadership helped shape national movements for justice, inclusion, and opportunity.

For decades, Reverend Jackson pushed the country to do better by building coalitions, organizing alongside working families, and insisting that those too often excluded from decisions and resources be heard and respected. His steady voice reminded the nation that rights are not abstract, and dignity is not negotiable.

Tribal Nations know the long work of protecting the people — defending sovereignty, strengthening communities, and holding the United States to its promises. Reverend Jackson’s example reflects the power of principled leadership and solidarity across communities, and the responsibility to keep pressing forward when progress is resisted.

“Reverend Jackson devoted his life to advancing dignity and opportunity for those too often excluded from it,” said Larry Wright Jr., Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and to all who drew strength from his message. May his legacy continue to move our nation toward fairness, respect, and equality for all.”

NCAI extends condolences to Reverend Jackson’s family, friends, and all those who carry his work forward.

National Congress of American Indians Mourns the Passing of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson

The National Congress of American Indians mourns the passing of Jim Gray, former Principal Chief of the Osage Nation, and extends its deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and the Osage people.


“Jim Gray devoted his life to strengthening the Osage Nation and advancing Tribal sovereignty through lasting nation-building,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “He led with integrity and a clear commitment to his people, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations. On behalf of NCAI, we extend our deepest condolences to the Osage Nation and to all who loved and learned from him.”


Chief Gray was widely respected for advancing nation-building and strengthening Tribal governance. During his service, he helped guide a significant restoration and modernization of Osage governance — work that centered Osage citizenship, expanded participation, and reinforced the inherent right of Tribal Nations to define their own political futures. He also brought a steady, informed voice to broader Indian Country conversations through his work in Native media and civic engagement.


NCAI honors Chief Gray’s legacy as the kind of leadership Indian Country depends on: grounded in community, focused on strong governance, and committed to sovereignty in practice — not just in principle. His work reflected a belief NCAI shares: that the strength of Indian Country is built through strong Tribal governments, accountable institutions, and informed citizens.


NCAI stands with the Osage Nation in honoring Chief Gray’s life and legacy, and in recognizing his lasting contributions to Tribal sovereignty and self-determination.


NCAI Mourns the Passing of Jim Gray, former Principal Chief of the Osage Nation

 — The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI) and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) today announced the launch of a new collaborative digital resource hub designed to empower Tribal Nations in exercising their sovereignty through agricultural development and food system regulation.

This partnership brings together IFAI's legal and policy expertise with NCAI's national advocacy and representative strength. The newly unveiled webpage serves as a "one-stop shop" for Tribal leaders, producers, and policymakers, offering comprehensive tools, including model Tribal food and agriculture codes, templates for establishing Tribal Departments of Agriculture (TDOA), and guidance on navigating federal funding and programs.

“Food sovereignty is a critical component of Tribal sovereignty. The ability to feed our own people supports Tribal self-governance, continuity of cultural foodways, economic stability, and community resilience,” said IFAI Executive Director Carly Griffith Hotvedt (Cherokee Nation).. “This collection of resources is a hub for any Tribe interested in securing food sovereignty, from those just getting started to those exploring opportunities for further development. Informational guides, case studies, funding opportunities, and events specific to Tribal food sovereignty are available in a centralized format. The Tribal Food Sovereignty Innovation Lab is a valuable tool to advance Tribal priorities in food and agriculture systems work. Osda!”

The release of the Tribal Food Sovereignty Innovation Lab comes at a critical time as more Tribal Nations seek to build their own regulatory capacity, move toward food independence, and protect their lands from external regulatory encroachment. The resources highlight successful case studies of Tribes currently operating their own agricultural departments and provide a roadmap for others to follow.

“Our collaboration with IFAI marks a significant milestone in our mission to put ‘Tribal sovereignty into food sovereignty,’” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “This new webpage and accompanying resources are designed to be a living library for Indian Country, providing Tribal Nations the practical tools needed to govern their own food systems, invest in their producers, and ensure a healthy, self-determined future for the next seven generations.”

For more information and to access the resources, 

About the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative

IFAI focuses on enhancing health and wellness in Tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development, and cultural food traditions. Based at the University of Arkansas, IFAI provides Tribal governments, producers, and food businesses with strategic legal analysis, policy research, and educational resources.

IFAI and NCAI Launch New Webpage Featuring Resources to Strengthen Tribal Food Sovereignty and Agricultural Governance

 | 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.

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 

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

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Office on Violence Against Women invited the Pasqua Yaqui and Tulalip Tribes to speak on the implementation of VAWA Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction. To watch or listen to the panel please click on the link below.

DOJ Invites Pasqua Yaqui & Tulalip for VAWA Implementation Panel

Washington, DC – Building on its First Kids 1st initiative and its work advancing Generation Indigenous (Gen-I), the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has joined forces with the Native Financial Education Coalition (NFEC) to launch NAT$VE in the BANK because they understand that Native youth building relationships with financial institutions by opening a bank account is a proven difference-maker in them making smart financial decisions over the course of their lives.

Designed for Native youth ages 12 to 25, NAT$VE in the BANK requires participants to finish four easy steps: complete a short, fun online course on financial education; open an account with a bank or credit union; take a “selfie” picture with a bank/credit union representative; and share through words or art their financial goals in life. Once they do, participating Native youth receive a NAT$VE in the BANK T-shirt and a chance to win an iPad Air. If participants recruit at least three friends to also complete NAT$VE in the BANK’s four easy steps, they are entered for a chance to win an iTunes gift card, an iPad mini, or a trip to NCAI’s 2015 Annual Convention in San Diego.

“This important new initiative, which seeks to strengthen the financial capability and self-sufficiency of our youth, builds on NCAI’s work on First Kids 1st and Gen-I,” said Jacqueline Pata, NCAI Executive Director. “We encourage Native youth everywhere to participate, and we invite tribal governments, Native organizations, and financial institutions to play key roles in supporting Native youth to answer the NAT$VE in the BANK call.”

Tribes and organizations can support NAT$VE in the BANK by recruiting Native youth to participate, integrating the initiative into their youth programs, and reaching out to local banks and credit unions to get them to participate. Banks and credit unions, meanwhile, can do their part by: accepting tribal IDs and a minimum initial deposit of $25 to open accounts, waiving monthly account fees, hosting a NAT$VE in the BANK fair at a bank branch or school in/around a tribal community so youth can open accounts, and contributing matching funds to initial deposits made to those accounts.

One of the first Native youth to answer the NAT$VE in the BANK call was Harmani Wilson, a citizen of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and high school senior who lives in Henderson, Nevada. She explains, “I said, ‘Why not give it a try?’ It was pretty easy to understand and do. I am happy I did it because I learned a lot from it. It was amazing how much money I was saving by putting it in the bank because I was not spending like I would if I had cash in my pocket. It helped me budget better and I was able to save up for items I really wanted, and I learned that I can take my time and don’t need to buy things immediately.”

In order to be eligible to win the trip to NCAI’s upcoming Annual Convention in San Diego, Native youth must answer the NAT$VE in the BANK call and get at least three friends to participate by Friday, September 25th. NAT$VE in the BANK will then unveil a new grand prize for youth who answer the call by March 31, 2016. To learn more about NAT$VE in the BANK, please visit the 

NCAI Partners with Native Financial Education Coalition to Launch NAT$VE in the BANK Initiative for Native Youth

A new website is now available with the express purpose of providing sex trafficking information and resources for tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions. The link to the site is 

The site includes federal, state, and tribal laws, articles, resources, and information about victim services and will continue to include new information as it becomes available.

 website was created to provide tribal coalitions with quick access to information their advocates need–legal resources, victim service directories, training calendars, technical assistance, and more.

Additionally, we envision this site as a place for Native women to find help when dealing with violence. Individuals can reach out to their local 

 for assistance or they can easily use our 

 themselves. We suggest, however, that individuals contact their local tribal coalition for assistance first. A Tribal Coalition can help individuals navigate options and services, and utilizing coalition connections can increase a client’s chances of receiving services or referrals immediately. 

New Website: Sex Trafficking Resources for Tribal Coalitions

On September 5, 2015, PBS Newshour aired an 

 on Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction under VAWA. The 

PBS Newshour Report on VAWA

Washington, DC – Protecting sacred places. Cleaning up neighborhoods. Standing up against bullying. Eradicating racist sports mascots. Reviving traditional food systems. Revitalizing Indigenous languages.

Across the United States, a growing number of Native youth are taking the initiative in identifying and tackling the most pressing issues facing their tribal nations. They are devising solutions and influencing their peers to strengthen their families and communities in order to eliminate the obstacles that stand in the way of their success.

NCAI, working collaboratively with tribal governments and organizational partners, has played an instrumental role in seeding this movement, from the creation of the 

“Our youth have unlimited potential,” said Jacqueline Pata, NCAI Executive Director. “We just need to provide them the resources, opportunities and, most importantly, the systems of support that they need to flourish to maximize that potential. When we do, our youth are already proving that they have the fortitude, the drive, and the ingenuity to lead Indian Country to a brighter future.”

Complementing NCAI’s effort to empower Native youth are the White House’s 

 (Gen-I) Initiative, unveiled by President Obama last December. NCAI serves as a primary partner on both initiatives.

“This is rapidly becoming a movement with a life of its own,” said NCAI President Brian Cladoosby. “By collaborating with the White House, President Obama, and others on My Brother’s Keeper and Gen-I, we are bringing critical attention to the issues Native youth face and demonstrating that we can make the greatest impact when we work together.”

This promising movement crosses a significant milestone today, when more than a 1,000- Native youth from across the country will participate in the first-ever 

. This event provides them the chance to converse with senior Administration officials and the White House Council on Native American Affairs on their issues of greatest concern.

To learn more about NCAI’s initiatives for Native youth, email Joel Chastain at 

Native Youth Taking the Initiative to Better Indian Country

Washington, DC- Today, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia upheld the ruling of cancellation of the Washington, DC football team’s trademark name and logo.

Attorneys Jesse Witten and Jeffrey Lopez of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP have represented Amanda Blackhorse (Navajo) and a group of Native American activists in this case against the trademark. Last year, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) Appeal Board voted 2-1 that the team’s name was ineligible for federal trademark protection. The District Court affirmed that ruling and directed the PTO to schedule the cancellation of the team’s trademarks because they “may disparage” Native Americans.

NCAI President Brian Cladoosby stated, “It’s time to end the harmful legacy of perpetuating racist stereotypes that in no way honor our diverse cultural heritage. The federal courts have recognized that the use of the R-word is offensive and degrading to our identity as Native people.”

NCAI and Indian Country have been advocating for over 60 years for the football team to change the name. In the ruling, the Court thoroughly discussed NCAI’s longtime advocacy against the Washington team name. NCAI has worked diligently with the group Change The Mascot on this issue and applauds the ruling that clearly upholds the spirit of 

, the 1992 case challenging the use of the team trademark.

Court Upholds Trademark Cancellation

St. Paul, Minnesota- On Monday, at NCAI’s 2015 Mid Year Conference, Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs Kevin Washburn 

 to amend the regulatory process on how the Department of Interior officially recognizes Indian tribes. The ruling fulfills a promise to speed recognition and make the steps more transparent in a process that has long been considered broken.

Tribes putting forth their sovereign status for federal acknowledgment need to prove that they were a community that had a governing authority since 1900. Supporting documents can be placed online during the recognition process, with opportunity to file comments as the process moves forward.

“This updated rule is the product of extraordinary input from tribal leaders, states, local governments and the public,” said Assistant Secretary Washburn. “It is a fair compromise. We have a responsibility to recognize those tribes that have maintained their identity and self-governance despite previous federal policies expressly aimed at destroying tribes.”

“Although this is a compromise, NCAI greatly appreciates the effort and commitment from the Administration to get these regulations finalized and to improve the process,” said NCAI President Brian Cladoosby. “NCAI has been pushing for years for all tribes seeking recognition to have a fair and equitable process. “

The NCAI membership has supported the proposed changes through NCAI Resolution 

 Supporting the Bureau of Indian Affairs Proposed Reform of the Federal Recognition Process.

New Federal Recognition Rule Announced at NCAI Conference

 – Today, June 25, 2015, the United States Supreme Court delivered a ruling in the 

 case that upholds a key provision in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The decision allows for the continued provision of premium tax-credit subsidies towards the purchase of health insurance in federally facilitated exchanges for those that meet income eligibility requirements. Many American Indians and Alaska Natives live in states with federally facilitated exchanges so this decision is significant.

In his remarks from the White House, President Obama stated “…health care is not a privilege for a few but a right for all. The Affordable Care Act is here to stay.”

After hearing this morning’s ruling President Cladoosby said “The U.S. Supreme Court decision in 

 today is great news for Indian Country! Insurance subsidies are critical to ensuring access to affordable health insurance for American Indians and Alaska Natives.”

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) issued 

 in the decision with the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, Demos, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, National Collaborative for Health Equity, National Council of La Raza, National Urban League, PICO National Network, and the Poverty & Race Research Action Council.

Supreme Court Upholds Insurance Subsidies in Federal Exchanges

The American Bar Association Journal showcases Indian tribes restored criminal jurisdiction over non-Indians who commit offenses of domestic violence, dating violence, and violations of protection orders under the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013.

Indian Tribes Are Retaking Jurisdiction Over Domestic Violence On Their Own Land

SMART FY 15 Promoting Evidence Integration in Sex Offender Management: Applying Circles of Support and Accountability in Indian Country Project Sites

In fiscal year 2015, the SMART Office is pleased to announce its first SMART FY 15 Promoting Evidence Integration in Sex Offender Management: Applying Circles of Support and Accountability in Indian Country Project Sites Program.The goal of this project is to support the development of a holistic program in tribal communities for those affected by crime by providing support for the victim, encouraging responsibility for the offender, and facilitating changes designed to minimize the risk of future abuse. SMART will fund up to two Indian Country jurisdictions, and an accompanying technical assistance provider (through a separate solicitation). Tribal communities may receive up to $250,000 each. 

SMART Office Funding Opportunity DEADLINE: May 18, 2015

Washington, DC- On March 7, 2015, Tribal governments may elect to begin exercising jurisdiction over non-Indians who commit crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, or violate a protection order against a Native victim on tribal lands.“

This is a major step forward to protect the safety of Native people, and we thank all Members of Congress for passing the Violence Against Women Act of 2013 and recognizing tribal authority,” said Brian Cladoosby, President of the National Congress of American Indians and Chairman of the Swinomish Tribe.

So far three Tribes, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, and the Tulalip Tribes have been able to exercise jurisdiction over non-Indians under a 

 since February 6, 2014. To date the Tribes have charged a total of 26 Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction cases.“

I want to encourage all tribal governments to get this law on their books,” said Juana Majel, Chair of the NCAI Task Force on Violence Against Women. “The main goal is deterrence of domestic violence. On most reservations there are a handful of bad actors who have figured out how to slip between jurisdictional boundaries. They need to get the message. If they continue to assault our women we will prosecute and put them in jail.”

Violence against Native women has reached epidemic proportions. The root cause is a justice system that forced tribal governments to rely on distant federal — and in some cases, state —officials to investigate and prosecute misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence committed by non-Indians against Native women. However, outside law enforcement has proven ineffective in addressing misdemeanor level reservation-based domestic violence. The Justice Department has found that when non-Indian cases of domestic violence go uninvestigated and unpunished, offenders’ violence escalates. The 2013 VAWA Reauthorization authorizes tribal governments to investigate and prosecute all crimes of domestic and dating violence regardless of the race of the offender.

Tribes choosing to exercise Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction must provide the same rights guaranteed under the Constitution as in state court. This includes the appointment of attorneys for indigent defendants and a jury drawn from the entire reservation community. “Many tribal courts are already providing these protections to defendants, and it isn’t a big step to provide indigent counsel to all. Just like county courts, tribal courts can contract for public defenders on a case-by-case basis,” encouraged President Cladoosby.

61% of American Indian and Alaska Native women (or 3 out of 5) have been assaulted in their lifetimes

34% of American Indian and Alaska Native women will be raped in their lifetimes

39% of American Indian and Alaska Native women will be subjected to violence by an intimate partner in their lifetimes

59% of assaults against Native women occur at or near a private residence

59% of American Indian women in 2010 were married to non-Native men

46% of people living on reservations in 2010 were non-Natives (single race)

US Attorneys declined to prosecute nearly 52% of violent crimes that occur in Indian country; and 67% of cases declined were sexual abuse related cases

On some reservations, Native women are murdered at more than ten times the national average

For an overview on tribal VAWA, and more information please see: 

. The Tribal Law & Policy Institute has developed a Legal Code Resource for implementation at 

Tribal Governments Able to Take Criminal Action on Non-Indians

Washington, DC – In an announcement today at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Executive Council Winter Session, the White House invited tribal leaders to join the 

. Earlier this month, the White House launched the Gen-I challenge, an initiative focused on building a bright future for Native youth. Existing elements of the Gen-I challenge include the recently launched Cabinet officials’ Native Youth Listening Tour and a steering committee of Native youth to plan the first ever White House Tribal Youth Gathering.

 to take concrete steps to engage with Native youth in their communities including: working with or creating a youth council; hosting a joint meeting between youth and tribal leaders; or partnering with youth to plan a program to support positive change in their community.

The following tribes have already accepted the Gen-I challenge:

Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Tribes of Alaska

Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians

The White House Announces Next Phase In Native Youth Initiative

Washington, DC- The White House today joined with 250 American Indian and Alaska Native youth attending the 

 Midyear Conference to launch the Generation Indigenous (Gen-I) Native youth Challenge. Native youth, in Washington, DC for leadership training, learned how to become actively involved in the Gen-I challenge. Other Native youth are invited to join in. The challenge provides Native youth with an opportunity to use various digital platforms to tell their stories and share the positive contributions they are making in their communities.

U.S. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell kicked off the Native youth listening tour on Tuesday, February 10, in Phoenix, Arizona. Over the course of the year, other Cabinet Secretaries will join the tour across the country. A gathering planned by Native youth will be held later in the year.

Gen-I was created to enhance the lives of Native youth by removing barriers that stand between Native youth and their opportunities for success. With new investments and increased culturally appropriate engagement, this initiative takes a comprehensive approach to increase opportunities and improve outcomes.

The Center for Native American Youth and National Congress of American Indians are partnering with UNITY, the Administration, and other stakeholders to help build and accomplish the goals of Gen-I.

To find out more about the Gen-I Challenge 

The White House Announces Generation Indigenous Native Youth Challenge

Washington, DC- On Wednesday, February 4th, NCAI released an 

analysis of the President’s fiscal year 2016 budget

, which highlighted the impact on funding for Indian programs. The budget proposes an overall an increase of 12 percent for BIA over the FY 2015 enacted level, the largest increase in more than a decade (excluding Recovery Act funding) and a 9 percent increase for the Indian Health Service.

Overall, several proposals in the FY 2016 budget request would improve the federal government’s fulfillment of treaty and trust responsibilities in the federal budget, proposals which should benefit from bipartisan support. NCAI and tribal leaders will continue to work with Appropriators and members in both the House and Senate to underscore the importance of strengthened investments in direct services to tribes and funding for programs administered by tribes.

President Brian Cladoosby responded to the fiscal year 2016 budget release with, “Indian Country strongly supports the several increases that recognize the treaty and trust responsibilities, with the goal of parity in governmental resources for tribes. Tribes also strongly support the proposal to make BIA and IHS contract support costs mandatory, which tribes have called for in tribal consultation over many years.”

Highlights of FY 2016 President’s budget include:

Mandatory Contract Support Costs: The FY2016 budget includes a legislative proposal to reclassify contract support costs as permanent funding beginning in FY 2017.

Native Youth: The creation of Generation Indigenous, which is a comprehensive multi-agency initiative to help improve the lives of and opportunities for Native youth in multiple areas such as broadband access and college and career-readiness.

Tiwahe (Family) Initiative, a comprehensive and integrated approach to address the inter-related problems of poverty, violence, and substance abuse faced by Indian communities, The FY16 budget would provide $15 million to expand the Tiwahe Initiative, $6 million more for Social Services, $4 million more for law enforcement for alternatives to incarceration, and $5 million more for aid to tribal family courts.

Public Safety: The budget includes $417.4 million for the Department of Justice (DOJ) public safety initiatives in Indian Country, which is a $102 million increase.

Tribal Behavioral Health Grant (TBHG) increases. The TBHG would receive an additional $25 million as part of Generation Indigenous. With the expansion of the TBHG program, SAMHSA aims to reduce substance use and the suicide among Native youth and address conditions which impact learning in BIE schools.

Indian Education funding would increase for Bureau of Indian Education (BIE), expanding broadband for BIE schools, and scholarships and higher education.

As Congress makes decisions as a part of the appropriations process in the coming weeks and months, NCAI urges law-makers to support parity in governmental and program funding as well as promote Indian self-determination to achieve the vision of broader progress in Indian Country. 

NCAI Releases Analysis of President's FY 2016 Budget Request

Eligibility: Tribal governments, tribal courts, non-profits, and victim service providers can apply for up to $500,000 for a 3-year project.

Eligible Activities: Please review the solicitation for the full range of eligible activities, but possibilities include:

developing or enhancing court infrastructure (such as specialized courts, consolidated courts, dockets, intake centers, or interpreter services);

community-based initiatives within the court system (such as victim assistants, pro se victim assistance programs, or community-based supplementary services);

offender management, monitoring, and accountability programs;

safe and confidential information-storage and information-sharing databases within and between court systems;

education and outreach programs to improve community access;

other projects likely to improve court responses to violence against women;

OVW Justice for Families Grant Funding: DEADLINE Feb. 11, 2015

Eligibility: Tribal governments can apply for up to $1 million for a 3-year period.

Eligible Activities: Please review the solicitation, but this program is very broad and tribes could apply for a range of activities related to implementing VAWA including: 

the creation of a specialized court or docket;

offender management, monitoring, and accountability;

cooperative efforts and projects among law enforcement officers, prosecutors, victim service providers, and other related parties to investigate and prosecute incidents of domestic violence;

training and salaries for law enforcement, prosecution, and court personnel. 

OVW Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Stalking Grant Funding – DEADLINE: March 4, 2015

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking applications for funding to improve public safety and victim services in tribal communities. This solicitation provides federally recognized tribes and tribal consortia an opportunity to develop a comprehensive and coordinated approach to public safety and victimization issues and to apply for funding. DOJ’s existing Tribal Government-specific programs are included in and available through this single Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation.


Applicants must register with GMS prior to submitting an application

. An applicant will not be able to submit an application without registering in GMS before the application deadline of 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on February 24, 2015. Applicants should begin the registration process immediately to meet the GMS registration deadline, especially if this is the first time using the system. It is strongly recommended that applicants register early, but 

, in order to resolve difficulties well in advance of the application deadline.

DOJ Coordinated Tribal Assistance Grant Funding- DEADLINE

Washington, DC – The National Congress of American Indians was pleased to give testimony during the Senate Committee on Indian Affair’s first oversight hearing on Indian Country’s priorities for the 114th Congress. The bi-partisan nature of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs was evident as Committee members voted for Senator Barrasso (R-WY) as Chair and Senator Tester (D-MT) was voted to be Vice-Chair. The Chairman and Vice Chairman committed to work closely together to improve the lives of Native Americans throughout the Country.

NCAI’s testimony strongly focused on restoring tribal homelands and asked for swift action on 

 fix legislation, trust modernization, tribal infrastructure, and juvenile justice.

NCAI Area Vice President Aaron Payment stressed that, “The trust relationship [between tribes and the federal government]is one that we have inherited. As tribal leaders, we are elected to uphold the trust relationship, and as Senators, it is one that you agree to uphold when you take the oath of office.” 

Chairman Payment also asked that the committee include 

 to Congress entitled “Promoting Self-Determination, Modernizing the Trust Relationship” into the hearing record stressing that “funding decisions made by Congress are an explicit expression of the trust relationship between our governments.” Payment, requested that the members of the Indian Affairs Committee, eight of whom are also on the Appropriations Committee, use their voice on that Committee to represent the interests of tribal governments and tribal citizens. 

Other panelists included the National Indian Health Board, National Indian Education Association, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development and Vance Homegun from the Center for Native American Youth who laid out education, health care, economic development, and youth priorities.

NCAI is also encouraged that the Committee is going to take up four bills at a Business Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, 2015, including:

S 184 — Native American Children's Safety Act

S 209 — A bill to amend the Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2005, and for other purposes.

S 246 — A bill to establish the Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Children, and for other purposes.

Draft Bill — A bill to amend the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to provide further self-governance by Indian tribes, and for other purposes

NCAI strongly supported Chairman Barrasso’s energy bill during today’s hearing, and is pleased that Committee is taking up issues impacting Native Youth so early in this session. NCAI has also supported movement on bills to improve the self-governance program for tribes in ways that make it easier for tribes to carry out programs and make decisions on how those federal programs can best meet the needs of their members.

NCAI looks forward to working with the Committee on these bills and in this session of Congress.

NCAI Pleased to Highlight Tribal Priorities at first Indian Affairs Hearing of 114th Congress

Washington, DC – In an address to members of Congress, senior Administration officials, and leaders of tribal nations, the President of the National Congress of American Indians called on Congress and the Obama Administration to follow through on a policy action plan to improve economic opportunity, education, and innovation in Indian Country.

During the annual State of Indian Nations address, NCAI President Brian Cladoosby, chairman of the Swinomish Nation, also called for the federal government to modernize trust relations with tribal governments and remove barriers to economic growth. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs delivered the Congressional response.

“Indian Country is leading. Indian Country is innovating. Indian Country is growing. And the state of Indian nations grows stronger by the day,” said Cladoosby in the opening moments of the speech. Cladoosby is President of NCAI the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. 

“Today, I bring a simple message from the tribes of the 21st Century: We must tear down barriers to growth, simplify regulations that are limiting opportunities, and acknowledge that tribes have the capability as governments to oversee our own affairs,” continued Cladoosby during the address delivered to a studio audience at the Newseum in Washington, DC. “Congress and the Administration need to find ways to help bring federal agencies out of the 19th Century and into the 21st Century. We need them to be partners for growth and not barriers to growth. “

Remarking on the historic visit by President Obama to the Standing Rock Sioux Nation last year, President Cladoosby extended a personal invitation to Speaker Boehner, Leader Pelosi, Majority Leader McConnell, and Minority Leader Reid – as well as every Member of Congress to visit Indian Country in 2015.

During the major policy address NCAI and Cladoosby outlined a clear plan and top-level priorities for Congress and the Administration that could attract bipartisan support:

The organization released a 130 page report 

The FY 2016 Indian Country Budget Request; Promoting Self-Determination, Modernizing the Trust Relationship

, outlining a plan for funding the federal government’s trust responsibility through the budget process.


NCAI called on congress to advance tribal tax reform to enable tribes to raise tax revenue free from overlapping state taxation, and to create incentives for business and jobs.

NCAI proposed the federal government accelerate work to partner with the private sector to expand broadband connectivity in Indian Country and ensure a comprehensive study of the digital divide facing tribal nations. 

NCAI proposed extending access to capital by recognizing the equal status of tribal governments to access tax exempt bonds and ensuring tribal inclusion in the New Markets Tax Credit Program.

NCAI urged Congress to pass Indian energy legislation like that proposed by Chairman Barrasso that would provide tribes with greater control and flexibility to develop their traditional and renewable energy resources.

NCAI called on Congress and the Administration to ensure that tribal nations have a seat at the policymaking table by consulting with tribes on all policy issues such as the Keystone Pipeline, renewable energy, health care, and education.

The Forefront

Who We Are

Our Work

News & Events

Resources

Get Involved

Contractor Opportunities