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

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is proud that the White House has chosen a representative of Indian Country as a “Champion of Change.”

Henry Red Cloud is the Founder and Sole Proprietor of Lakota Solar Enterprises (LSE) on Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. One of the first 100% Native American-owned and operated renewable energy companies in the nation, LSE employs tribal members to manufacture and install efficient solar air heating systems for Native American families living on reservations across the Great Plains. Additionally, Henry manages the Red Cloud Renewable Energy Center (RCREC), a one-of-a-kind Native educational facility where tribes from around the U.S. receive hands-on green job training in renewable energy technology and sustainable building practices. Henry Red Cloud is providing Native Americans with “a new way to honor the old ways” through sustainable energy solutions that are environmentally sound, economically beneficial, and culturally appropriate.

Tribal nations are engaging in some of the most innovative and dynamic projects around clean energy development. NCAI is encouraged that the Administration continues to highlight this work and give Native enterprises the attention they deserve.

NCAI Proud Of Pine Ridge Champion Of Change

WASHINGTON, DC – Human rights expert and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples James Anaya today called the Washington NFL team’s current R-word team name a “

hurtful reminder of past suffering of Native American

.” The Oneida Indian Nation and its Change the Mascot campaign, as well as the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), are praising the UN for its powerful statement, which comes on the heels of Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter’s January meeting with the UN on the topic. 

“The United Nations is the latest to dispel the absurd claim by Washington's football team and its owner Dan Snyder that the term ‘redskins’ honors Native Americans,” said Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter and NCAI Executive Director Jackie Pata. “This word is widely recognized throughout the globe as a racial slur. If the NFL wants to be a global brand that contributes to the positive image of the United States across the world, it needs to stop promoting this slur and change the name.” 

“I urge the team owners to consider that the term ‘redskin’ for many is inextricably linked to a history of suffering and dispossession, and that it is understood to be a pejorative and disparaging term that fails to respect and honour the historical and cultural legacy of the Native Americans in the U.S.,” said Anaya, who also contributed to a 2012 report on the situation of indigenous peoples in the U.S. “Indigenous peoples have the right to the dignity and diversity of their cultures, traditions, histories and aspirations… Private actors also have responsibilities independently of the States’ obligation to promote and protect human rights.” 

The UN has taken a strong stand globally to combat racism in sports and played an important role in highlighting the damaging impacts of racism against Indigenous peoples. 

NCAI is the nation’s oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities. It has played a key role in opposing the Washington team’s continued use of the R-word racial epithet. 

Since the Oneida Nation’s launch of the Change the Mascot campaign last year, the derogatory name of Washington’s NFL team has become a prominent civil rights issue garnering support from top leaders across the country and internationally. Bi-partisan Members of Congress, city councils, leading civil rights organizations, top sports icons, prominent journalists and even President Obama have all spoken out against the team’s continued use of the harmful epithet. 

The growing Change the Mascot movement continues to gain support from top leaders and organizations. Following a nationwide radio campaign during the past NFL season, Change the Mascot plans to continue their push into the 2014 NFL season and beyond. 

National Congress of American Indians & Oneida Indian Nation Applaud the UN for Condemning the Hurtful Name of Washington’s NFL Team

As published in the Washington Post on April 4, 2014

 a new foundation to benefit Native Americans was a clear acknowledgment of years of evasion of the most pressing concerns of Indian country by the pro football franchise he owns. While it was a positive first step, the creation of this foundation will only be significant if it remains standing long after the name of the Snyder’s team is retired.

In our past, Native communities have received blankets, coats, trinkets, donations and the uninvited sympathy of those who see us only as an inferior people. These contributions can be helpful, but they are like putting a Band-Aid on a broken leg — they do nothing to solve the underlying problem. We have learned to be suspicious of gifts that stem from selfish interests, come wrapped in claims of generosity and serve to distract from the real problems at hand.

We have many non-Native friends — businesses, organizations and foundations — that partner with us. Our greatest successes have come when our allies respect our sovereignty, listen to us and do what they can to support our self-determination. While some in Indian country may have been welcoming to Snyder, it is our way to be gracious to friend and foe alike. He should not confuse that with approval of his team’s name.

The invisibility of Native peoples and lack of positive images of Native cultures may not register as a problem for many Americans, but it poses a significant challenge for Native youth who want to maintain a foundation in their culture and language. The Washington team’s brand — a name derived from historical terms for hunting native peoples — is a central component to this challenge.

It seems quite clear that Snyder’s foundation will do little to address the problems that the R-word brand compounds daily: racial inequality and a lack of understanding of the place of native people in our society, especially youth.

These youth are an especially vulnerable population. Many are at a disadvantage because their communities lack basic infrastructure; before dealing with the challenges of career development and higher education, they must overcome life without phone service, Internet access or even running water. The 

 is the highest among all American young people. 

 the use of American Indian-based names, mascots and logos in sports has a negative psychological effect on Native peoples and positive psychological consequences for European Americans.

Snyder has stated that his foundation will address issues facing Native youth, so we call on this new multimillion-dollar organization to advocate for a simple solution to address what many of the nation’s leading Native youth advocacy organizations have called for: the end of derogatory mascot imagery in our communities, media and culture. From that point forward, the organization will be able to spend its money even more effectively to address other institutional sources of racism and violence.

If the foundation does not address this issue, it will be clear that its works are window dressing to cover the team’s 

 against African Americans and Native Americans alike.

Snyder, his team and the NFL are welcome to join Indian country as allies and partners but only when they make their most significant contribution up front: Retire the name of this team. Only then will we truly know Snyder’s commitment to Indian country, to Native youth and to a future where tribal nations and our people are treated as equal to all other Americans.

Until the team’s name is changed, every week during football season American youth around the country — whether Native American or not — will watch Washington football fans dressed as “savage” Indians and wearing “redface” and conclude that it’s acceptable to defame and mock Native people. This will create another generation of Americans who think Native peoples are less than others, are characters and caricatures out of the past and are not due the rights promised to all.

Mr. Snyder, the NFL, the Washington football team and now Mr. Snyder’s foundation, we call on you to bring an end to the era of harmful Indian mascots. Change the name and join us in moving Indian country and America forward, together.

Pres. Cladoosby Opinion: A good project for Snyder’s foundation? Fighting the use of the word ‘re*skins.’

WASHINGTON, DC – The tragic mudslide that devastated the community of Oso in Washington state is still affecting families across the Northwest. “We have been praying for the families of Oso every day since this tragedy struck. There is no making sense of events like this. All we can do is join hands and rebuild together,” said Brian Cladoosby, NCAI President and Chairman of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community.

Indian Country has rallied and Washington tribes have sent over half a million dollars to support relief efforts on top of the many tribal members who have assisted in the rescue operation. We will continue to do what we can to help the families in need and call on others to do the same. Please consider contributing to one or more of these organizations who are supporting the victims and their families:

Please Consider Donating To The Oso Mudslide Relief Effort

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is encouraged to see that after decades of insisting their team name supposedly honors Indian Country, the Washington, DC football team’s owner is dedicating time and resources to the challenges facing tribal nations.

However, this Foundation will only contribute to the problems in Indian Country if it does not also address the very real issue of how Native people are consistently stereotyped, caricaturized, and denigrated by mascot imagery and the use of the R-word slur. For Mr. Snyder and the Foundation to truly support and partner with Indian Country, they must first change the name of the DC team and prove that the creation of this organization isn’t just a publicity stunt.

For more information, please read the following reports on the effects of the R-word on Indian Country:

Ending the Legacy of Racism in Sports & the Era of Harmful “Indian” Sports Mascots

The Harmful Psychological Effects of the Washington Football Mascot

NCAI: True Support Of Indian Country Only Possible If DC Team Changes Name

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) appreciates the efforts of the Department of the Interior in issuing a new legal opinion and working to provide further guidance in defining the tribes “under federal jurisdiction” as of 1934 in the wake of the Supreme Court's 2009 Carcieri v. Salazar decision regarding the Indian Reorganization Act. The opinion, however, highlights the need for Congress to make clear that all Indian tribes are under federal constitutional authority to regulate.

The Indian Reorganization Act was enacted in 1934 to restore Indian tribal governments and tribal lands after the failed federal policies of termination and assimilation. The Act ensured that the tribal way of life would continue and thrive. In its Carcieri decision, the Supreme Court determined that the Secretary of the Interior does not have authority to take land into trust for tribes that were not “under federal jurisdiction” prior to 1934. However, the Court did not define what it means for a tribe to have been “under federal jurisdiction” as of the enactment of the IRA.

According to the DOI opinion, M-37029, the term “under federal jurisdiction” is ambiguous and undefined, therefore the DOI has the authority to determine which tribes do and do not fall under the statute and will proceed to make decisions about trust agreements accordingly. In previous legal work, NCAI has taken the view that the Constitution devotes authority in Indian affairs to the federal government and that the only question is whether an Indian tribe exists, as in the Supreme Court's decision in U.S. v. Sandoval in 1913.

Of the opinion, NCAI President Brian Cladoosby stated:

“NCAI is pleased the Department of the Interior has addressed one of the many problems created by the unclear and damaging language in the Carcieri decision. It is encouraging to see a federal agency work to strengthen the trust relationship – particularly the DOI, as one of their fundamental tasks is fulfilling the United States’ trust responsibility to tribal nations.

The opinion is encouraging, but Carcieri still stands. Tribes need a permanent, legislative solution and NCAI will continue to work towards a clean Carcieri fix. All tribes must be treated equally but as long as Carcieri is upheld, that is not possible and that is unacceptable.”

The Carcieri decision has affected all tribes – even those “under federal jurisdiction” as of 1934. Processing delays in trust land applications, additional bureaucratic red tape for potential economic investors, and confusion over legal jurisdiction are just a few of the consequences.

More importantly, the decision is a direct attack on tribal sovereignty. Indian trust land is the foundation of tribal economies and the only real federal protection of tribal authority from state and local governments.

NCAI is committed to the preservation of tribal sovereignty and ensuring a robust nation-to-nation between tribes and the federal government. We will continue to support and work with tribal leaders to advance these priorities.


NCAI Encouraged By DOI Opinion On Carcieri; Reaffirms Need For A Robust Fix That Ensures Tribal Equality

Washington, DC – Today marks the one year anniversary of a great victory for tribal nations and Native women. On March 7, 2013, President Obama signed the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA 2013). At the signing ceremony, the President underscored the “inherent right [of tribal governments] to protect their people.”

For the first time since the 1978 Oliphant decision, VAWA 2013 restored tribal authority to investigate, prosecute, convict, and sentence non-Indians who assault their Indian spouses or partners in Indian country. The law created a pilot project that enabled three tribes to begin exercising this authority last month.

Reflecting on the progress over the past year, NCAI President Brian Cladoosby remarked, “Today is a day to celebrate what we have achieved together and commit ourselves to ensure the ongoing success of this important law. It acknowledges that tribal nations are the best equipped to ensure public safety in our communities and provides the tools we need to protect Native women.”

“VAWA 2013 is a tremendous victory. I am grateful to those who have stepped up to take the lead in the implementation phase,” stated Terri Henry, Chairperson, Tribal Council of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and Co-Chair of the NCAI Task Force on Violence Against Women. “I want to congratulate the three tribes participating in the Pilot Project and remind everyone, we still have work to do.”

Juana Majel Dixon, Councilwoman, Pauma Band of Indians and Co-Chair of the NCAI Task Force on Violence Against Women added, “To all our Native sisters throughout Indian Country, we have given a decade of our lives’ work—and this could not have been done without all of you. We hold a sacred trust as sovereign Native women to our people.”

NCAI Executive Director, Jackie Pata added, “VAWA 2013 does not mark the end of our efforts to combat domestic violence in Indian Country, it is an important step along the way. Tribal nations remain steadfast In the important work of protecting our Native women and securing our communities.”

NCAI Celebrates the One Year Anniversary of the Passage of VAWA 2013

In the coming weeks, the President's budget will be reviewed by Congress, and appropriations committees will continue holding hearings on the proposals. In January of this year, NCAI released its 

 which can be compared to the Administration's budget proposals.



 on March 4, 2014. It proposes $3.9 trillion in outlays for FY 2015, a $250 billion increase over the $3.6 trillion estimated for FY 2014. The President's budget adheres to the discretionary spending caps set under the December budget deal (PL 113-67), requesting $1.014 billion next year in base discretionary spending compared to the $1.012 billion that Congress enacted in the recent FY 2014 omnibus (PL 113-76). The Administration also requests an additional $56 billion, the "Opportunity, Growth and Security Initiative," as a kind of supplemental, split between defense and domestic accounts and funds programs such as education and infrastructure. The $56 billion in spending would be offset with spending cuts, such as reducing federal crop insurance subsides, reallocating spectrum, and reducing the tax benefits for multi-million-dollar retirement accounts. The White House plan also would replace the sequester cuts starting in FY 2016 to discretionary spending and states that the caps set under the Budget Control Act do not allow enough investment in the country's future needs.



Highlights of Proposed Funding for Tribal Programs

: Many tribal programs fall into the category of domestic discretionary funding. In preparation for the President's budget, some agencies have consulted with tribes about programs in the budget. Some recommendations from Indian Country are included in the FY 2015 proposal. Below are a few highlights from NCAI's initial analysis of the President's budget. Additional department summaries are addressed below, as well as links to many of the agency budget documents for even more in depth analysis.



Significant proposals in the President's FY 2015 Budget include:

funding for Indian Affairs (BIA) and Indian Health Service (IHS) contract support costs (CSC)

: BIA CSC would receive $251 million, including funding for the Indian Self-Determination Fund, an increase of $4 million above the FY 2014 enacted level. IHS CSC would be funded at $617 million, an increase of $30 million above FY 2014.

 a comprehensive and integrated approach to address the inter-related problems of poverty, violence, and substance abuse faced by Indian communities. The initiative would provide about a $5 million increase for Social Services and $4.7 million increase for ICWA, $550,000 increase for BIA Job Placement and Training, and a pilot program for providing alternatives to incarceration and increased treatment.

: The budget would provide $395 million for Department of Justice (DOJ) public safety initiatives in Indian Country and $352 million for Public Safety and Justice programs funded by the BIA.

 Treasury includes a proposal to exclude from income student loan forgiveness and certain scholarship amounts for participation in the IHS health professions program; a modification of the adoption tax credit to allow Indian Tribal Governments to make a status determination of a "child with special needs"; and changes to the rules governing tax-exempt bonds for Indian tribal governments, including permanent repeal of the essential governmental function test and allowance of Indian tribal issuance of certain private activity bonds.

 Tribal General Assistance Grants in EPA would receive a $31 million increase to $96.4 million - a 47 percent increase over FY14.

NCAI will work to ensure that the federal programs that fulfill the trust responsibility to tribes receive bipartisan support in the appropriations process. The White House has released a factsheet, "

Download the complete analysis of the President's FY 2015 Budget.

NCAI Analysis of the President's FY2015 Budget Request

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is proud to announce that Sherry Salway Black, our Director of the Partnership for Tribal Governance, has been appointed to the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans (“the Council”).

The first meeting of the Council will be held Monday, March 10th where the appointees will begin to discuss their recommendations “on how to 

promote financial capability among young Americans

 and encourage building the financial capability of young people at an early stage in schools, families, communities, and the workplace and through use of technology.”

Sherry Salway Black, Oglala Lakota Nation, is a valuable asset to the Council. She served as a member of the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability and is the former Senior Vice President of First Nations Development Institute, a Native-led nonprofit organization that works to improve the economic condition of Native Americans through promoting business development and financial education. Ms. Black is a member of the Honoring Nations Board of Governors and also serves on the boards of First Peoples Fund, the Hitachi Foundation, and the Johnson Scholarship Foundation.

Ms. Black plays a critical role at NCAI as she leads the 

 (PTG). The PTG program helps to organize, enhance, and distribute resources necessary to support tribes’ efforts to strengthen their governance. Ms. Black works to coordinate education, training, and technical assistance for tribes as they implement new policies while also helping to ensure smooth communication and cooperation among tribes, policymakers, and national organizations

NCAI PTG Director Appointed To The President’s Advisory Council On Financial Capability For Young Americans

FILM SCREENING, MUSIC PERFORMANCES, & LIVE PANEL DISCUSSION

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The National Congress of American Indians encourages all to attend this special, free event. The Smithsonian is screening an incredible new film about Native peoples living in Greenland. Of the screening, NCAI President Brian Cladoosby said:

“I hope those in the Washington, DC area make every attempt to attend the screening of 

. It is an inspiring story of two Inuit men, each fighting their own struggles but finding strength and solace in their friendship. 

 is also an honest depiction of the beauty, conflict, and persistence of Native cultures in modern-day life. It has never been more important to support the work of our Native peoples, especially when that work can bring a greater understanding of our culture.”

, meet Anne Andreassen, the founder of the Uummannaq Children’s Home, which is located 500 km north of the Arctic Circle and serves as the film’s home base. Music will be performed by some of the Home’s talented Greenland Inuit residents. Following the screening, participate in a panel where teens, curators, and film-makers will discuss themes from the film and the changing climate and lives of Arctic peoples.

In Greenland’s capital, sixteen year-old Inuk lives a troubles life with his alcoholic mother and violent step-father.

One morning, after pulling the half-frozen boy out of an abandoned car, the social services decide to send Inuk North, to a children’s home on a tiny island in the middle of the arctic sea-ice. There, Inuk meets Ikuma, a local polar bear hunter, who has his own share of problems. Haunted by his troubled past, his extraordinary hunting skills are mysteriously disappearing.

The children’s home’s warm-hearted director, Aviaaja, asks Ikuma to take Inuk on his annual seal-hunting trip. She is certain that despite the risks of such a long and dangerous voyage, Inuk will learn that he has a valiant past and a hopeful future.

So, when Inuk, the city boy, joins Ikuma, the great hunter of the North, on the epic dogsled voyage, they face much more than the bitter cold and fragile sea-ice. The most difficult part of the journey is the one they must make within themselves…

Created as an original road-movie on the sea-ice, “Inuk” is both an authentic story of Greenland today, a country torn between tradition and modernity, and a universal story about the quest for identity, transmission and rebirth after the deepest of wounds.

The authenticity of the film was intensified by the exceptional performance of the nonprofessional Inuit actors: teenagers from a home for neglected Inuit children and local seal hunters. “Inuk,” [Director Mike] Magidson’s first feature-length narrative, is the fruit of a unique friendship with them.

Inuk A Film by Mike Magidson

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians is grieving for Cedarville Rancheria today. When he learned of the tragedy, President Brian Cladoosby remarked:

“A great sorrow stretches across Indian Country for the heartbreaking tragedy in the Cedarville Rancheria community. I know that the country is joining us in prayer for the victims, their families, and the tribe as they gather their strength to walk together during this time.”

Tragedies like this know no boundaries of ethnicity, government, or religion and they are happening far too frequently. Our hearts are heavy as we lift up the families affected by this senseless act of violence.

Lifting Up Our Prayers For Cedarville Rancheria

WASHINGTON, DC – For the first time in decades, tribal nations will receive full payment on contracts signed with the federal government. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Indian Health Service (IHS) have submitted plans to 

pay their 2014 contracts with tribes in full.

Many issues face Indian Country but one of the most far-reaching is the fiduciary relationship between tribal nations and the federal government. In setting out plans to pay their contract support cost requirements in full, the federal government will begin to treat tribal nations with the respect and honor due to them.

Under the Indian Self-Determination Act, the United States enters into inter-governmental contracts with tribes under which tribes administer federal programs for the benefit of tribal members. The Indian Self-Determination Act represents the cornerstone of this nation’s federal policy toward tribes for more than a third of a century and represents one of the most successful policy eras for tribes in US history.

Yet, time and time again, BIA and IHS have failed to pay the contract support costs in full while expecting the programs to be fulfilled completely. This cycle of negotiating contracts and then refusing to pay the agreed upon amount has prevented tribes from achieving self-determination and progress towards self-sufficiency. When Indian contract and self-governance compact contract support costs are short funded, tribes are actually penalized for exercising their self-determination rights, by being compelled to reduce program operations to cover these unavoidable costs.

While this recent development is a positive step for future contracts, federal agencies must also speed up the settlement of past claims. Agencies owe tribal nations millions of dollars in unpaid contract support costs – money that is critical for tribes to achieve full self-determination.

The National Congress of American Indians is committed to working with tribal nations and the federal government to ensure full payment of future contracts and to resolve the millions of dollars of debt owed to tribes.

For additional background information on Contract Support Costs, please read NCAI’s 

 on Contract Support Costs or the summary briefing document.

Contract Support Costs To Be Paid IN FULL By Federal Government

WASHINGTON, DC – National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Brian Cladoosby attended the State Dinner in Honor of French President Francois Hollande. After spending the evening with world leaders and American political elites, President Cladoosby remarked:

"Tonight was a true reflection of the place of Native governments on the global stage. The tribal nations of this country were honored and represented alongside foreign nations and the United States. I am so excited to help connect tribal leaders with those I met tonight and to do whatever I can to advance the goals of tribes and Native peoples."

The presidents of the National Congress of American Indians, the United States, and France enjoyed a meal 

 and were entertained by Mary J. Blige. The 

 included high-level officials from the Obama Administration, officials from the French government, members of Congress, state and local elected officials, and celebrities.

NCAI President Cladoosby Joins President Obama, World Leaders At State Dinner

WASHINGTON, DC – National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Brian Cladoosby has been selected to serve on the Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

As part of his duties as one of five Primary At Large Representatives, President Cladoosby will provide critical tribal guidance for HHS priorities and budget items as well as participate in forums and meetings to ensure the perspectives of tribal nations are fully included in policy discussions. The first gathering of STAC will be February 12-13, 2014 in Washington, DC.

President Cladoosby joins a talented group of tribal leaders also serving as At Large Representatives:


Lt. Governor, Chickasaw Nation
Former President, NCAI


Chairman, Sault St. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians


1st Vice President, Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribe

, President Cladoosby repeatedly called for increased cooperation between the federal government and tribal nations. Since STAC began in 2010, NCAI has consistently encouraged other cabinet secretaries to follow Secretary Sebelius’ lead and engage tribal leaders at the highest level of their agencies to strengthen our nation-to-nation relationship. President Cladoosby is eager to join tribal leaders from throughout the nation as they assist the Secretary and her department in their efforts to better serve Indian Country.

NCAI President Appointed To HHS Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) set the tone for the coming months guided by tribal resolutions passed by organization members.

NCAI publishes this annual document as part of its mission to serve as a forum for unified policy development among tribal governments. Tribal leaders respectfully request that these recommendations be considered as part of the appropriations process.

An honorable budget for Indian Country will empower tribes so they can provide their people with good health care, quality education, decent and adequate housing, and public safety. These services – that every American expects – meet the needs of Native peoples, benefit residents of surrounding communities, and fulfill trust and treaty obligations to tribal nations.

The FY 2015 budget requests were compiled with the help of tribal leaders, Native organizations, and partner groups. NCAI is grateful for their contributions and participation in the creation of these requests.

The arguments laid out at the 12th annual State of Indian Nations by NCAI President Brian Cladoosby and Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) are in line with the recommendations made in the FY 2015 budget request. Each speaker remarked on the great opportunities before Indian Country, if only tribes had the resources due to them.

“This is an exciting time for Indian Country. Tribes are meeting our challenges head on, improving the lives of our people and our neighbors, and preparing the next generation for even greater achievements. … But our ability to contribute to the collective prosperity of the country is threatened by the federal government’s failure to keep its promises.”

“The federal government must treat tribes as trusted allies and honor the contracts and treaties we agreed to. It must live up to its trust responsibilities, but then step aside and let tribes take the reins and determine your fate.”

Following the State of Indian Nations address, President Cladoosby said:

“It was wonderful to see so many tribal leaders and Native youth gathered today. As I said earlier, we are much stronger together. With friends like Senator Jon Tester in Congress, I am confident that Indian Country will achieve many of our goals in the coming months.”

The National Congress of American Indians is committed to furthering the goals and priorities of tribal leaders. The release of the FY 2015 budget request and the delivery of the State of Indian Nations establish those priorities set forth in tribal resolutions and will guide our work.

NCAI Sets 2014 Agenda With Budget Proposal, State Of Indian Nations

WASHINGTON, DC – Swinomish Tribal Chairman and President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Brian Cladoosby had the chance to meet with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and members of the Tulalip Tribe to discuss the importance of supporting Native youth through positive youth development programs. The Boys & Girls Clubs in Indian Country serves over 85,000 Native youth in over 200 clubs nationwide in Indian country. After the meeting with Tulalip Tribe – the 6th Tribal Club – and Tulalip Chairman Mel Sheldon, President Cladoosby said:

“What an inspiration to see the incredible work of the Boys and Girls Clubs! There is nothing more important than supporting young people and encouraging them to make positive decisions. I am excited to continue working with the Clubs on bringing education, career, and healthy living choices to Native youth and the children of all communities.”

Providing opportunities for the next generation is the greatest responsibility of this generation. With that duty in mind, President Cladoosby has focused on education and Native youth in his first months at NCAI. He and the organization are committed to strengthening the partnership between NCAI and the Boys and Girls Clubs.

Boys & Girls Clubs in Indian Country began over 20 years ago and has grown dramatically ever since. Under the leadership of Brian Yazzie, the National Director of Native American Services for Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Boys & Girls Clubs offer multiple programs specific to tribal communities. These programs include the On the T.R.A.I.L. (Together Raising Awareness for Indian Life) to Diabetes Prevention Program which provides youth with tools to prevent type 2 diabetes through self-esteem and prevention activities. The T.R.A.I.L program has served nearly 12,000 Native youth in 85 tribal communities. Robbie Callaway, of FirstPic, Inc. who was instrumental in beginning the Boys & Girls Clubs in Indian Country initiative stated:

“President Cladoosby and NCAI’s support for Boys & Girls Clubs in Indian Country has the ability to help increase opportunities for Native youth across the country and create sustainable programs throughout Native communities.”

NCAI has a long history of working hand in hand with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, including the passage of a resolution in 2004 endorsing a permanent endowment for the Boys and Girls Clubs for their work in Indian Country. FirstPic, Inc. has worked with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and NCAI throughout this initiative to implement high quality programming for Native youth. Executive Director Jacqueline Pata sits on the Native American Advisory Council for the Clubs and has made the partnership between NCAI and the Boys and Girls Clubs a priority for the organization.

NCAI President Commits To Strengthening Partnership With Boys And Girls Clubs Of America

FY 2014 Omnibus Restores Some Funds to Tribal Programs

WASHINGTON, DC - In response to a controversial bill signed into law on Thursday, December 19th by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, making it easier for schools with Native American mascots to keep them and harder for people who want to change the nicknames to challenge them, National Congress of American Indians President Brian Cladoosby issued the following statement:

"I was deeply saddened to hear that Wisconsin Governor Walker signed a misguided bill that protects racist stereotypes reinforced by using Native American names and images as school mascots. Many communities, even some in Wisconsin, have recognized that these nicknames do not honor Native people and rejected these outdated notions. Wisconsin just took a big step backward in the journey toward a more inclusive and respectful society."

NCAI President: Gov. Walker "Just Took a Big Step Backward" By Signing Mascot Bill

In a unanimous vote, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights has joined the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Oneida Nation, and numerous media outlets in taking a stand against the name of the Washington, DC football team.

The Leadership Conference is the nation’s premier civil and human rights coalition representing more than 200 diverse national organizations. Today, members 

 calling upon the Washington, DC team “to change its team name, and to refrain from the use of any other images, mascots, or behaviors that are or could be deemed harmful or demeaning to Native American cultures or peoples” and notes that using this slur as the team’s name “cannot in any reasonable way be viewed as honoring the culture or historical legacy of any particular Native American tribe or individual.”

The resolution also urged state, local, and federal governments to “to end any preferential tax, zoning, or other policy treatment that could be viewed as supporting the franchise as long as it retains its current team name.”

The NAACP, National Council of La Raza, American Association of People with Disabilities, the ACLU, National Organization for Women, and the Anti-Defamation League are just some of the organizations represented by the civil and human rights coalition.

In response to the unanimous support of the resolution, Jacqueline Johnson Pata, Executive Director of NCAI, remarked:

“By recognizing the ongoing disparagement of American Indian and Alaska Natives and asking the NFL to change the name of the DC franchise, the Leadership Conference reconfirms its commitment to fighting for equal rights for Native peoples. Passing this resolution at their annual meeting further proves that LCCHR is fully behind this work and NCAI is proud and happy to have them on our team.”

Over 200 Civil Rights Organizations Call For Washington, DC Football Team To Change Its Name

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) applauds the House of Representatives for unanimously passing 

The bill, co-sponsored by Reps. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and Tom Cole (R-OK), allows for the construction of a Native American Veterans’ Memorial on the grounds of the National Museum of the American Indian. Tribes have long been working for a monument in our nation’s capital to honor our Native veterans’ service.

The Forefront

Who We Are

Our Work

News & Events

Resources

Get Involved

Contractor Opportunities