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

In this episode of The Sentinel, we uncover the devastating effects that dams have on Indian Country. The construction and maintenance of dams cause flooding of sacred sites, displacement of people from their ancestral lands, and permanent disruption of the ecosystem and fish populations. These irreparable consequences result in the loss of traditional ways, vital resources, and quality of life in tribal communities. Join us and take a look back at the history of NCAI’s advocacy efforts against dam construction on tribal lands, which began shortly after the organization’s founding in 1944 and has continued through today. 

This episode also features an interview with Corrine Sams, elected Board of Trustees Member for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and Treasurer of the Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission. Sams discusses recent progress in the Pacific Northwest as Tribal Nations defend their sovereignty and advocate for the removal of dams and restoration of salmon populations in the region. She also sheds light on the Biden administration’s recent report on the detrimental effects of dams in the Columbia River Basin, marking the first time the federal government has acknowledged the decades of harm tribal communities have endured. Listen now to learn more about the impacts of dams on Native people, the environment, and their intrinsic rights.

Eroding Sovereignty: The Devastating Impacts of Dams on Tribal Communities

Washington, DC—The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) announces the launch of a coordinated, non-partisan, national Native Get Out the Vote Campaign (GOTV). Native voices are essential in every political race. We have seen the impact of the Native Vote on local, state, and national levels. Hence, NCAI is producing a comprehensive GOTV strategy for Tribal Nations to help ensure active engagement in the upcoming federal elections.

NCAI’s GOTV work is intentionally non-partisan. As former NCAI President Jefferson Keel (Chickasaw) used to say, "The work we do is not 'D' for Democrat or 'R' for Republican but 'I' for Indian."

“Our goal is to excite our fellow American Indian and Alaska Native people to vote and to support a "Sovereignty Ticket" of key issues vital to Tribal Nations and their citizens,” explains current NCAI President Mark Macarro (Pechanga Band of Indians).

NCAI is concentrating its efforts across three distinct phases, including various activities to encourage election participation; mobilization and engagement exercises leading up to election day; and, ultimately, technical support for the incoming administration, whomever that may be. Additionally, during the week of August 26, NCAI will host webinars on 

Recognizing the Snyder Act 100th Anniversary—Honoring the Past; Preparing for Our Future.



The Fifteenth Amendment—passed in 1870—granted all U.S. citizens the right to vote regardless of race. However, it wasn't until June 2, 1924 when President Calvin Coolidge signed into law the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924–also known as The Snyder Act– that American Indians and Alaska Natives could enjoy the rights granted by this amendment.

“We want all Natives, young and old, to vote,” says Dr. Aaron Payment (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa), member of the National Advisory Council on Indian Education. “We stand to be the margin of victory in key battleground states. We intend to play a role in shaping policy that relates to us. While we recognize the 100th anniversary of the passage of the so-called ‘Indian Citizenship Act,’ we still have challenges with voter participation and voter suppression.”

Founded in 1944, NCAI is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities. A nonprofit organization, NCAI advocates for a bright future for generations to come by taking the lead in gaining consensus on a constructive and promising vision for Indian Country. For more information, contact 

NCAI Launches 2024 Native Get Out the Vote Campaign: “Honoring the Past; Preparing for Our Future”

August 7, 2024

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) applauds President Biden’s nomination of Patrice H. Kunesh as the Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). Kunesh, who is of Standing Rock Lakota descent, has demonstrated unwavering dedication to public service and a profound commitment to advancing the interests and well-being of Tribal Nations and communities.

Patrice Kunesh brings an extensive background in tribal, state, and federal service. Currently, she serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs and as the Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans within the Administration for Children and Families in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Her career includes significant contributions to the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, and in academia as a faculty member at the University of South Dakota School of Law.

Kunesh’s experience is further highlighted by her roles as the Deputy Under the Secretary for Rural Development in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Deputy Solicitor for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior, and as a member of the U.S. Treasury Community Development Advisory Board (CDFI Fund) representing Native communities. She also established the Center for Indian Country Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and founded Peȟíŋ Haha Consulting, a social enterprise dedicated to promoting culturally centered Native economic development.

Patrice Kunesh’s confirmation as Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission will mark a significant step forward in strengthening the governance and oversight of Indian gaming, fostering economic development, and enhancing the sovereignty and self-determination of Tribal Nations.

For further information or inquiries, please contact ncaipress@ncai.org

NCAI Supports President Biden’s Nomination of Patrice Kunesh as Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission

As the growth of technology permeates every aspect of our lives, the issue of Tribal Digital Sovereignty is of crucial importance now more than ever. Join us on this episode of The Sentinel as we hear from experts who will help shed light on this subject.

Listeners will learn about the recently launched Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty, a partnership between NCAI and Arizona State University’s American Indian Policy Institute, the first of its kind in Indian Country. We hear from Geoff Blackwell and Matt Rantanen, experts in the field of Tribal Digital Sovereignty, who help us examine the unique challenges that Native communities face with governing their own data, information, and technology.

This episode provides a deeper understanding of the intersection of technology and Tribal sovereignty, why it matters so much now, and why it is one of the most significant challenges facing the future of Indian Country.

Empowering Tribal Nations in the 21st Century: NCAI and the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty

“The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) strongly condemns the violence that occurred against former U.S. President Donald Trump. We extend our deepest condolences to those affected. Our ancestors have fought for and upheld the right to resolve differences through peaceful and rational discourse. It is through this legacy that we advocate for the use of rational dialogue and the democratic process, including the power of our vote, to address conflicts and shape our nation’s future.”

- Mark Macarro - President, National Congress of American Indians

Jantzen Hale, NCAI Media Relations Associate

NCAI Condemns Violence, Calls for Peaceful Resolution of Differences Through Democratic Processes



The survival of American Indian and Alaska Native languages is essential to the success of tribal communities and Native ways of life. However, without urgent and sustained intervention, far too many Native languages risk extinction within the coming decades. In this episode of The Sentinel, we highlight the urgency of this issue, and examine the creative and innovative solutions that many tribal communities are undertaking to counteract language loss.

First, we hear from Daniel Golding (Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe), producer of the documentary “

,” which aired on the PBS network as part of the “Native America” series. Golding sheds light on the inherent challenges of revitalizing Native languages and his own unique personal perspective as he embarked upon learning the Quechan language.

Next, we present segments from the “Native Language Preservation” panel discussion held at the 2024 NCAI Mid Year Convention & Marketplace in Cherokee, North Carolina. Representatives from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Cherokee Nation, Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe participated in a lively discussion at the Third General Assembly. Panelists recounted the challenges of language preservation, but also shared strategies, projects and techniques that have resulted in successful outcomes for their tribal communities.

Historically, indigenous communities across the globe have passed down their languages from generation to generation. However, colonization and cultural assimilation have jeopardized these languages, pushing them to the brink of extinction. When a language fades, identity

is lost. Preserving languages is critical if we want to promote cultural diversity and richness. Many Native communities rely on oral transmission, rather than written, to pass on knowledge, customs and traditions. As language becomes jeopardized, so does the cultural transmission that goes with it.

Throughout its history, NCAI has been instrumental in the effort to preserve Native languages. The organization’s advocacy has taken on a number of forms including: supporting legislation to protect traditional ways of speaking, calling for increased funding for language education and immersion programs, and formally recognizing that native languages are in a state of emergency.

For example, in 1990, NCAI endorsed the Native American Languages Act, the first major piece of legislation to preserve, promote, and protect Native languages. By the mid-1990s, NCAI began using the resolutions process to further this mission. At the Mid Year Conference in Spokane, Washington, NCAI leaders stated that “the United States government actively suppressed our native languages, directly contributing to their dramatic decline.”

Then, NCAI called upon the federal government to increase funding for Tribal Nations for language recovery and teaching programs. The membership also adopted a resolution addressing Native youth and calling for development and funding of Native language immersion programs in pre-schools, elementary schools, and secondary schools throughout Indian Country. NCAI also established a Native Language Task Force that meets twice annually.

More recently, at the 2024 NCAI Mid Year Convention and Marketplace held in Cherokee, North Carolina, attendees heard from Native language speakers and advocates throughout the meeting sessions. They were able to watch a screening of the documentary “

”, which aired on PBS as part of the highly acclaimed “Native America” series. Then, a breakout session conducted by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians delved into their efforts to preserve and revitalize their language. Lastly, the Third General Assembly hosted a panel on Native Language Preservation featuring a lineup of speakers from the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, the Cherokee Nation, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe.

Out of these discussions came a common theme. While significant progress has been made towards preserving Native languages in recent years, there are still challenges associated with maintaining languages across generations. As younger generations are exposed to other languages through the Western education system and media, the usage of native languages declines. And when communities have limited resources, support and funding for language revitalization efforts, these challenges become even more difficult to overcome.

NCAI recognizes that the preservation of Native languages is not just a linguistic issue, but a basic need to uphold cultural diversity and respect the rights of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples. When a language fades away, it is not only words that are lost, but an entire way of life and understanding of the world.

Beyond Words: The Power Of Native Language Revitalization


Jantzen Hale, National Congress of American Indians, 

Amy M. Echo-Hawk, Native American Rights Fund, 

WASHINGTON, D.C. | Today, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed that the 1975 Indian Self-Determination Act (ISDA) mandates the Indian Health Service (IHS) to reimburse Tribal Nations for the expenditures of revenues collected from third-party payors such as Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers. This ensures that Tribal Nation healthcare programs operate on equal footing with IHS-run programs, as intended by the ISDA. The Court consolidated 

 and held that the ISDA and the ISDA contracts require the Tribal Nations to collect revenues from third-party payors and spend that revenue to further their respective healthcare programs. As a result, the costs to Tribal Nations of spending these revenues on further healthcare services must also be eligible for contract support cost reimbursement from IHS.

“Today’s decision is a victory for tribal self-determination and tribal sovereignty,” said National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Mark Macarro. “This ruling ensures that Tribal Nations administering healthcare services to their citizens and communities do so with the full funding to which they are entitled under federal law and contracts with the Indian Health Service.”

John Echohawk, Executive Director of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), agreed. “Congress passed the Indian Self-Determination Act with the purpose of empowering Tribal Nations and ensuring that tribally-run healthcare programs would be on equal footing with those run by the Indian Health Service. This decision honors the commitment Congress made to Tribal Nations’ rights to self-determination.”

affirm the Ninth and Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals’ wins by the tribes, making these victories applicable nationwide. Both Tribal Nations sued to ensure full contract support cost reimbursement from IHS related to the direct healthcare services they provide on their respective reservations. Today’s decision follows two previous rulings by the Court that under ISDA, Tribal Nations are eligible for contract support costs because they incur overhead and other costs to run their healthcare programs that IHS-run programs do not.

About the National Congress of American Indians:

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

NARF is a non-profit 501c(3) organization focused on applying existing laws and treaties to guarantee that federal and state governments live up to their legal obligations to Native Americans. Since 1970, the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has provided specialized legal assistance to Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals nationwide to assert and defend the most important Native rights in hundreds of major cases. NARF has achieved significant results in critical areas such as tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, natural resource protection, voting rights, and Indian education. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @NDNrights to learn about the latest fights to promote justice and protect Native American rights. Visit 

In a Victory for Tribal Nations, Supreme Court Affirms that Federal Support for Tribally Run Healthcare Programs Must Be on Equal Footing with IHS Run Programs

Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University

 | Today, the American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) announced the launch of the 

, the first and only center in the nation dedicated to providing tribal governments, leadership, and communities with the resources and support needed to establish a digital sovereignty plan. This groundbreaking partnership, revealed during the 

NCAI 2024 Mid Year Convention & Marketplace

, marks a significant milestone in supporting Tribal Nations in navigating the complexities of digital sovereignty.

"Tribal Digital Sovereignty includes both the information and the physical means by which it transfers— it is governance, it is economic, it is self-determination. We're looking forward to working with our partners at NCAI in serving Tribal Nations as we navigate this new platform together,” said Dr. Traci Morris, executive director of the American Indian Policy Institute and research professor at ASU Law. “With the launch of the center, Tribal Nations will have the resources they need to build their own individual proactive digital sovereignty plans.”

Digital sovereignty encompasses all aspects of a Tribal Nation's digital plan and footprint, such as Tribal codes, managing data protection, digital equity, network infrastructure, development of funding sources, and capacity building.

“Broadband and other communications technologies are the 21st Century platform for Tribal self-determination. The establishment of the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty is a major turning point,” said Geoffrey Blackwell, NCAI general counsel and chief of staff. “Tribal livelihood is either empowered or ignored every day by various technologies and the related laws and policies. We are excited to partner with ASU to empower Tribal Nations with the analysis, scholarship, advocacy, and resources needed to develop their digital environments and exercise their sovereign rights while embracing technological advancements.”

There is no single Tribal Digital Sovereignty plan that fits the unique needs of all 574 federally recognized Tribal Nations and no central resource network for managing their digital footprint. The Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty will offer comprehensive expertise and a clearinghouse of information to support Tribal Nations in developing personalized digital sovereignty plans with long-term solutions.

"This is a landmark moment. Digital sovereignty is essential for advancing the priorities of Tribal Nations and their cultural integrity in the digital age," said NCAI President Mark Macarro. "This partnership represents a powerful alliance that will allow Tribal Nations to navigate and shape our futures with confidence and autonomy. The Center will also provide the basis for building a new coalition of trusted organizations with proven track records to provide additional services and support to Tribal Nations. This initiative offers us the necessary tools and knowledge to secure our digital self-determination and ensure that our sovereignty is respected.”

The Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty provides research and scholarship, capacity-building support, and will form a coalition of expert community-serving organizations with long histories of working in this space, creating a gravitas of service as an open-source information resource and clearinghouse for Tribal Nations on Tribal Digital Sovereignty planning. With initial seed funding from the Ford Foundation and Google.org, the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty will form a coalition of organizations and entities that have been invited through a review process. Membership in the coalition will be determined based on alignment with the core values of the American Indian Policy Institute and the National Congress of American Indians – which are to serve Tribal Nations, advance Tribal sovereignty, and remain neutral with regard to Tribal network and technology choices.

“At ASU Law, we're excited to amplify the work of the American Indian Policy Institute and the National Congress of American Indians as we launch the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty,” said ASU Law Willard H. Pedrick Dean and Regents Professor of Law Stacy Leeds. “This initiative not only exemplifies our commitment to supporting Indigenous communities but also underscores our belief in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change. Together, we're forging a path forward that empowers Tribal Nations to navigate the digital frontier with confidence, ensuring their sovereignty and cultural integrity endure and thrive in the digital age.”

The Center will serve as the coalition’s administrative hub and central point of contact, in addition to providing advocacy support and service to Indian Country that is free and accurate, convening coalitions and hosting conferences. The coalition will include Tribal organizations, policymakers, researchers, educators, and leaders with long-term engagement in Tribal digital sovereignty-related matters. NCAI's involvement will include advancing policies through its 80 years of advocacy, providing foundational funding, and developing sustainable funding models.

To further bolster its mission and impact, the Center is actively seeking support from foundations and partners committed to advancing Tribal sovereignty and digital equity. Interested philanthropic partners are invited to reach out to the NCAI Foundation or the ASU Foundation.

About the National Congress of American Indians

About the American Indian Policy Institute

The American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) is an Indigenous-led and staffed research institute at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University whose work supports Tribal communities and Indigenous peoples nationwide. We do this by creating academic research focused on key issues in Indian Country, by analyzing and developing policy research and recommendations on those issues, and by building capacity within an ecosystem of lifelong learning. AIPI’s research expertise and focus are substantively on broadband technology and digital equity, with expertise in tribal telecommunications, communications policy, and newly emerging systems as they impact sovereign Tribal nations.

About the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University

The Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University is a leading institution at the forefront of legal education, research and service. Located in Phoenix, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., ASU Law provides a dynamic learning environment enriched by its proximity to legal, governmental and business communities. With a commitment to innovation and inclusivity, ASU Law offers a diverse range of degree programs, including the Juris Doctor, Master of Laws, Master of Legal Studies, and Master of Sports, Law and Business. ASU Law is dedicated to creating the next generation of legal professionals. Honoring the legacy of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and charged with upholding her namesake, graduates are well-prepared to shape all aspects of the legal field from public service to private practice, to fields that work in and around the law. For more information, visit 

American Indian Policy Institute and National Congress of American Indians launch the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty 

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) extends its condolences to the families and community members affected by the tragic shooting in the Gila River Indian Community.

“We are heartbroken to learn of this tragedy at the Gila River Indian Community,” said NCAI President Mark Macarro. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of Officer Joshua Briese and the Gila River Indian Community member who were killed. This terrible loss is felt deeply across Indian Country, and we send our benevolent prayers to those injured for recovery and healing.”

NCAI Statement on Gila River Indian Community Tragedy

2024 Mid Year Convention & Marketplace

Left to right: Moriah O'Brien (AIHEC), Liz Malerba (USET), Kitcki Carroll (USET), Larry Wright Jr. (NCAI), Secretary Linda McMahon (Dept. of Ed), Ahniwake Rose (AIHEC), Jason Dropnik (NIEA), Julia Wakeford (NIEA), Meghan Kearney (NCAI)

 (Coalition) met with U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon as part of the ongoing efforts to maintain and strengthen the relationship between Indian Country and the federal government, and ensure the latter upholds its trust and treaty obligations.

 from the Coalition, comprising national Native advocacy organizations that serve the majority of sovereign Tribal Nations. In the letter, the Coalition requested urgent dialogue with the Department of Education (ED) leadership. Representatives from the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC), the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET), the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), and the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) met with the Secretary on Wednesday.

During the discussion, the Coalition emphasized the need to protect dedicated funding streams, honor tribal sovereignty, and ensure Native students have equitable access to high-quality, culturally relevant education. The Coalition requested that Secretary McMahon issue an affirmative statement clarifying that Indian Country programs and eligible funding are not DEI, but trust and treaty obligations that the U.S. government must uphold.

Secretary McMahon recognized the importance of ongoing dialogue with Tribal Nations on issues impacting Indian education.

Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty Meets with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon

Washington, D.C. - On April 24, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden nominated Danna Jackson to serve as a federal judge in the United States District Court for the District of Montana. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Jackson would be the first American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian to serve as a federal judge in Montana.

Jackson has had a long career in public service. She has worked as a tribal attorney for the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, an Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Montana in the Indian Country Crime Unit, and in legal advisory roles for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and the United States Department of the Interior.

“NCAI is proud to support President Biden’s nomination of Danna Jackson to be the first-ever Native American to sit on the federal bench in the State of Montana,”‘ said National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “Ms. Jackson will bring deep Indian law and policy expertise to the federal bench. NCAI urges her swift confirmation in the U.S. Senate.”

“Danna Jackson has a long track record of public service, extensive federal legal experience, and is well qualified to be a federal judge,” said Native American Rights Fund (NARF) Executive Director John Echohawk. “We commend the Biden Administration’s selection of this historic nominee and exhort her confirmation. She will be a strong addition to the federal judiciary in Montana.”

“Inclusion of Native Americans in the courts that preside over matters in Montana is critically important to advancing trust in the judicial system and the rule of law. Danna Jackson’s deep experience in Montana in criminal and civil matters and her connections to the communities she has served her whole career will be a great asset to the court,” said Matthew Archer-Beck, President of the National Native American Bar Association (NNABA).

Jackson is the fifth judicial nomination by President Biden of a Native American to the federal bench. NARF, NCAI, and NNABA have long advocated for increasing Native representation in the federal court system. It is imperative to have federal judges who understand the unique relationship between the United States and Tribal Nations and who reflect the diversity within the districts that they serve.

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

NCAI, NARF, and NNABA Applaud Historic Nomination of the First Native American to the Federal Bench in Montana

Jantzen Hale, National Congress of American Indians,


Mauda Moran, Native American Rights Fund, 

On April 12, 2024, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), represented by the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), 

filed an amicus brief supporting the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of the Fort Hall Reservation v. United States Department of the Interior

 in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The brief emphasizes the importance of the trust relationship between Tribal Nations and the United States, which requires the federal government to act in good faith and fully honor its promises to Tribal Nations.

“The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes ceded vast tracts of their homelands to the United States, but they did so pursuant to an agreement that reserved crucial rights for the Tribal Nations and their citizens,” 

said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr.

 “Congress ratified that agreement and defined limited ways that the land could be removed from their use. It is imperative that the United States honors its legal and moral obligations by upholding the terms of this agreement.”

“The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have long fought to protect their homelands and their treaty rights,” 

. “NARF is proud to stand with them and to echo their call that the United States must respect the sovereign-to-sovereign trust relationship that exists between the government and all federally recognized Tribal Nations. The United States is not allowed to change or reinterpret the terms of federal law and its agreement with the Shoshone-Bannock just because it is convenient for them.”

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes brought suit in 2020 to stop the federal government’s illegal exchange of their homelands. The Shoshone-Bannock’s right to use those lands is protected under an 1898 agreement and codified in law under what is known as the 1900 Act. In 2023, the U.S. District Court rightfully found that the federal government had failed to comply with federal law, including the 1900 Act, and breached its trust responsibilities to the Shoshone-Bannock.

The federal government and the J.R. Simplot Company, the business seeking to acquire the lands, appealed that decision to the Ninth Circuit Court in 2023.

About the Native American Rights Fund (NARF): 

NARF is a nonprofit 501c(3) organization focused on applying existing laws and treaties to guarantee that federal and state governments live up to their legal obligations to Native Americans. Since 1970, 

 has provided specialized legal assistance to Native American Tribal Nations, organizations, and individuals nationwide to assert and defend the most important Native rights. In hundreds of major cases. NARF has achieved significant results in critical areas such as tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, natural resource protection, voting rights, and Indian education. Like us 

 to learn about the latest fights to promote justice and protect Native American rights.

NCAI Supports Shoshone-Bannock Fight to Protect Treaty Rights and Homelands

The Native American Graves Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) addresses the treatment and repatriation of cultural items, objects of cultural patrimony, sacred objects, and human remains. Passed into law in 1990 as a result of decades of NCAI advocacy, this legislation goes a long way towards recognizing and respecting the sacred, religious, and cultural rights of American Indian and Alaska Native people. It was considered long overdue at the time of its passage and has faced significant hurdles since then.



One of the key provisions of NAGPRA establishes requirements that federal agencies and any institutions that receive federal funding, make account of any human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony that they have in their possession. The law states that they must be then repatriated to the appropriate Tribal Nations, to be cared for, and to be honored according to tribal religious practices. 



Of critical importance is that NAGPRA also includes steps for consultation and collaboration between federal agencies, museums, and Tribal representatives and communities. One of its goals is to foster communication based on respect for culture and cultural sensitivity. This process is meant to bring healing and reconciliation to Native communities. Likewise, it calls for both museums and cultural institutions to address and take stock of the historical trauma associated with the exploitation and desecration of sacred objects, burial sites, and human remains that were stolen for their own benefit.



Delving back into the NCAI archival records, we learn that the organization was a key advocate for repatriation legislation long before NAGPRA was adopted. For example, In 1986 at the Annual Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, NCAI condemned the Department of Interior policy on human remains and sacred objects that they had developed without any tribal consultation or input. Organization leaders called on Congress to create tribally focused legislation, and to “hold hearings to allow the Indian Community to present its views and recommendations.”



Then, immediately prior to the passage of NAGPRA, NCAI adopted a Resolution at the 1990 Executive Council Winter Session calling upon Congress to adopt repatriation legislation because, “the sanctity of the dead for American Indians and Alaska Natives has never been respected by the dominant, non-Indian society as evidenced by the untold thousands of deceased Native Americans that have been dug up from their final resting places and because respect for the dead is a basic human right that is fundamental to all cultures, societies and religions…”.



Working in coalition with its partners such as the Native American Rights Fund and Association on American Indian Affairs, NCAI continued its unwavering advocacy until NAGPRA was finally passed into law in November 1990. Unfortunately, despite its historic significance, NAGPRA has faced major challenges in its implementation. Many claim that the original legislation does not go far enough to address past wrongdoings, nor does it take into account the challenges of the repatriation process both in terms of legal and ethical considerations. The quest for successful implementation of NAGPRA has dragged on for 34 years.



In recent months, however, there have been some promising developments. In an April 2023 press release, NCAI commended the ongoing bipartisan effort of the U.S. Senate that was underway at the time for ensuring that, “Native American ancestral remains and cultural items are returned to their rightful owners as an essential first step towards acknowledging the historic and ongoing wrongs inflicted upon the American Indian and Alaska Native community.” In August 2023, the National Park Service announced $3.4 million in grants to 16 Tribal Nations and 28 museums to assist in the consultation, documentation, and repatriation of ancestral remains and cultural items. This is the largest amount since the grant program began.



Lastly, on December 6, 2023, the Department of the Interior announced the outcome of that work—a series of new, stricter regulations concerning the implementation of NAGPRA. The new rules are considered long overdue and are a result of Nation-to-Nation consultation. They strengthen the force of the law and include systematic processes for returning human remains, funerary objects, and objects of cultural patrimony, setting the timeline for compliance at 5 years. The goal of the regulations is to give Tribal Nations more authority in the repatriation process. Museums and federal agencies now must obtain free, prior, and informed consent from Tribal Nations and descendants before displaying or conducting research on any human remains or cultural items. In addition, museums must now be more publicly transparent about their collection holdings that are subject to NAGPRA.



News coverage across the country has reported on the response to the new NAGPRA changes announcing that museums and cultural institutions have either covered or removed their exhibits relating to Native history. For example, The American Museum of Natural History in New York closed two halls dedicated to the Eastern Woodlands and Great Plains tribal cultures. Sean Decatur, President of the Museum, explained, “The Halls we are closing are vestiges of an era when museums did not respect values, perspectives and indeed the shared humanity of indigenous peoples.”



Other institutions have responded accordingly and have removed objects on display as they await consultation with Tribal Nations. We have yet to completely see how these new regulations will play out. But the hope is they will fulfill the original intent of the legislation and not result in further delays. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland stated, “The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act is an essential tool for the safe return of sacred objects to the communities from which they were stolen. Among the updates we are implementing are critical steps to strengthen the authority and role of Indigenous communities in the repatriation process…. Finalizing these changes are an important part of laying the groundwork for the healing of our people.”



As time goes on, NCAI will continue to advocate for the complete implementation of NAGPRA and repatriation of ancestral remains, and sacred and cultural objects, so that wrongdoings inflicted upon American Indian and Alaska Native communities are recognized and healing can begin.

 signals a rebirth of NCAI’s oldest and most continuously published membership newsletter, 

. Published for the first time in the 1940s, 

 focused on NCAI membership matters, events, people and policy issues. This newly conceived version will, instead, take a look backwards with a nod to the present. Each post will feature stories about past events, programs, and people, as well as articles on NCAI leaders throughout the years and new developments and discoveries in the archival collections.

Drawing on NCAI’s rich digital and physical archival collections, it is our hope that you will return each month to learn more about the organization’s 80 years of advocacy for Indian Country and, as a result, will also remain informed about what is happening at NCAI today.

Healing Through Restoration: The Native American Graves Repatriation Act

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

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

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

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

On Friday, March 22, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed six appropriations bills, with the U.S. Senate following suit shortly thereafter. The appropriations bills passed were:

Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024

Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024

Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2024

State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024

The six bills will now go to the President’s desk to be signed into law sometime this weekend.

In the upcoming weeks, NCAI will provide additional analysis of all 12 appropriations bills and the President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget. Below is a brief summary of some of the wins and losses for Indian Country that came out of this week’s legislation:

House, Senate Pass Remaining Six Appropriations Bills and Fund the Remainder of the Government—Many Indian Country Programs Flat Funded for FY2024

“On behalf of the National Congress of American Indians, we congratulate Lily Gladstone (Blackfeet Nation and Nez Perce) for her spectacular awards season and nomination for Lead Actress at the 96th Academy Awards. As the first Native American woman nominated for an Oscar in this prestigious category, Gladstone’s performance marks a milestone for authentic voices and representation of tribal communities in film. For too long, the narratives of Native peoples, along with our histories and stories, have been largely invisible in this country— no more. Thank you, Lily, and the Native actors, cast, and filmmakers whose efforts have made this milestone possible.”

NCAI Congratulates Lily Gladstone for Groundbreaking Achievements in Media and Film

On Wednesday, March 6, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed six appropriations bills, and today, March 8, 2024, the U.S. Senate followed suit. The appropriations bills passed were:

Agriculture, Rural, Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

The six bills will now go to the President’s desk to be signed into law, while Congress will turn its attention to funding the remaining aspects of the federal government before current funding expires on March 22, 2024.


In the upcoming weeks, NCAI will provide additional analysis of all 12 appropriations bills as well as the President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget. Below is a brief summary of some of the wins and losses for Indian Country that came out of this week’s legislation:

House, Senate Pass Six Appropriations Bills and Partially Fund the Government— Indian Country Programs See Both Increases and Cuts

“The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) mourns with profound sadness and a heavy heart the passing of its first female president, Veronica Homer (

). Her departure marks a significant loss for Indian Country, highlighting her role as both a trailblazer and a relentless advocate for the unity and strength of all Tribal Nations.At just 34, Homer broke historic barriers as the first woman to helm NCAI, setting new precedents with her visionary leadership and championing self-determination. Her lifelong dedication to serving her community and her advocacy on issues such as the federal recognition process, the restoration of traditional lands, and the protection of tribal sovereignty demonstrated her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing tribal communities.


Beyond her NCAI Presidency, Homer was a symbol of grace and resilience, growing up in a family of activists on the Colorado River Indian Tribes’ Reservation and later serving as Vice Chair of the Colorado River Indian Tribes. Her roles within NCAI, including Phoenix Area Regional Vice President and Recording Secretary, underscored her relentless advocacy on behalf of Tribal Nations.

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