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

A coalition of national Native organizations, collectively serving the interests of Tribal Nations and their citizens, joined in unison to oppose a federal government shutdown, spending cuts for tribal programs, and to remind Congress that Native lives are not a political bargaining chip.

“Tribal Nations paid, in full, for the duties owed and enforced by the United States. We paid with our lives, with our lands, with our resources, and with our ways of life. We paid long before political factions sought to divide this nation, and your debt is due. We continue to serve this nation’s military in the highest numbers of any U.S. demographic, and we put program dollars to better use for our people than the United States ever has. Congress must uphold its end of the deal. Native lives are not a political bargaining chip,” said Fawn Sharp, President of the National Congress of American Indians.

The United States has created a system where millions of Americans are uniquely reliant on federal appropriations. Tribal law enforcement and courts will switch to emergency operating plans. Primary, secondary, and higher education will switch to emergency operating plans. Tribal housing programs will switch to emergency operating plans. Life-saving programs for at-risk community members will switch to emergency operating plans. The unique history and political status of Tribal Nations and the government-to-government relationship with the United States means that no aspect of a shutdown happens in a vacuum for Indian Country and all Tribal Nations are affected.

Past government shutdowns have taken the lives of Native citizens, harmed their well-being, and forced tribal governments, tribal organizations, and individual citizens to go into debt to cover the United States’ broken promises. Without the historic enactment of advance appropriations for the Indian Health Service, all tribal programs would be facing, yet another, threat of government shutdown. Even still, critical and lifesaving programs will be disrupted throughout Indian Country, and Tribal Nations will pay to maintain operations in either borrowing costs or lives lost.



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 www.ncai.org.



About the American Indian Higher Education Consortium:


The American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) is the collective spirit and unifying voice of our nation’s Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). AIHEC provides leadership and influences public policy on American Indian higher education issues through advocacy, research, and program initiatives; promotes and strengthens indigenous languages, cultures, communities, and Tribal Nations; and through its unique position, serves member institutions and emerging TCUs. For more information, visit 

About the National American Indian Housing Council:


The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) is member organization that represents the unified voice of tribal housing programs across the nation. Established in 1974, NAIHC has a long-respected history of providing effective advocacy and quality training and technical assistance as well as hosting annual events that showcase best practices from tribal housing programs across the country. NAIHC advocates for tribal self-determination and improving housing conditions in tribal communities by working with tribes, tribal housing authorities, and tribally-designated housing entities (TDHEs). Learn more at 

About the National Council of Urban Indian Health:


The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is the national non-profit organization devoted to the support and development of quality, accessible, and culturally competent health and public health services for American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) living in urban areas. NCUIH is the only national representative of the 41 Title V Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) under the Indian Health Service (IHS) in the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA). NCUIH strives to improve the health of the over 70% of the AI/AN population that lives in urban areas, supported by quality, accessible health care centers. Visit 

About The National Indian Education Association (NIEA):


NIEA is the Nation’s most inclusive advocacy organization working to advance comprehensive education opportunities for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Formed by Native educators in 1969 to encourage a national discourse on education, NIEA adheres to the organization’s founding principles- to bring educators together to explore ways to improve schools and the educational systems serving Native children; to promote the maintenance and continued development of language and cultural programs; and to develop and implement strategies for influencing local, state, and federal policy and decision-makers. Through advocacy, capacity building, and education, NIEA helps Native students, and their communities, succeed. For more information visit 


The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) serves all 574 federally recognized Tribal governments—both those that operate their own health care delivery systems through contracting and compacting, and those receiving health care directly from the Indian Health Service (IHS). Established by the Tribes to advocate as the united voice of federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes, NIHB seeks to reinforce Tribal sovereignty, strengthen Tribal health systems, secure resources, and build capacity to achieve the highest level of health and well-being for our People. Visit: 

About the Native American Rights Fund (NARF):


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 Native American 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, follow us on Twitter @NDNrights, and visit us at 

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



About the Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium:


The Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium (SGCETC) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) consortium of Tribal nations that elected to use Self-Governance for the delivery of programs and services for their citizens and communities. SGCETC strives to assist all Tribal nations to achieve their own goals of self-government and seeks to ensure that the tenets and purpose of Self-Governance are accurately communicated and clearly understood by Congress, the Administration, Tribal nations and all other interested parties. For more information, visit 

National Native Organizations Oppose Federal Shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Congress of American Indians is encouraged by today’s announcement from the National Football League’s Commanders President Jason Wright that a return to the former name “is not being considered. Period.” This resolute stance and promise of continued dialogue represents a meaningful first step toward the Commanders owning the history of its former name and taking accountability for the unspeakable harm caused to tribal citizens after decades of racism and erasure.

In light of recent interviews where the Commanders new ownership group referenced the former team name, NCAI sent a letter extending congratulations on their acquisition and reiterating Indian Country’s long-standing opposition to harmful, unsanctioned Native “themed” mascots and imagery.

NCAI invited meaningful dialogue on how to truly honor and respect Native peoples, urging ownership to promptly discontinue this practice and publicly commit to refraining from any further use of the pejorative slur by stating, “It is time to leave the former name in the past.” As the oldest, largest, and most representative organization in the United States serving the broad interests of Tribal Nations and Native people, NCAI has been at the forefront of Indian Country’s campaign to retire harmful branding, including the derogatory racial slur that previously characterized the “Commanders” franchise.

“The use of unsanctioned Native ‘themed’ sports mascots perpetuates harm and dehumanizes our citizens, impacting both Native and non-Native individuals, and particularly our children,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “NCAI remains committed to fostering a proactive partnership with Washington ‘Commanders’ leadership, ensuring that harmful pasts are not repeated with future generations.”

Out of respect for tribal sovereignty, NCAI encourages the Washington Commanders organization to persist in dialogue with duly elected tribal leaders and engage with the communities directly affected by the previous mascot. This call to action extends to other professional franchises, including the Atlanta Braves, Chicago Blackhawks, and Kansas City Chiefs. NCAI urges these organizations to follow the lead of the Washington Commanders and Cleveland Guardians, promoting a dialogue that upholds tribal sovereignty, amplifies contemporary Native voices, and paves the way for the retirement of harmful mascots, imagery, and branding.

Since 1968, NCAI has remained committed to addressing the issue of inappropriate and stereotypical Native representation, advocating for positions that reflect the consensus of member Tribal Nations and citizens.

The oldest, largest, and most representative national organization serving Tribal Nations and their citizens, NCAI has been leading Indian Country’s movement to retire harmful Native “themed” mascots from sports and popular culture since 1968. NCAI’s membership has passed several consensus-based resolutions on the issue, and its relentless advocacy has helped to fuel the rapidly growing national movement among sports teams to retire offensive and harmful Native “themed” mascots out of respect toward Tribal Nations and Native peoples. For more information, visit www.ncai.org.

NCAI Encouraged by Washington Commanders' Decision to Leave the Past Behind

President Biden designated the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument

, which will conserve nearly one million acres of homelands sacred to Tribal Nations and protect numerous locations of religious and cultural importance from uranium mining.

This action comes as a direct response to 

 who played a pivotal role in sharing their intricate historical ties to the lands that can now be recognized and celebrated. Fawn Sharp, President of the National Congress of American Indians, praised the Administration for this designation:

“For generations, the land within the United States has served as a realm of deep spiritual and cultural meaning for Tribal Nations,” said President Sharp. “President Biden’s designation of the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument – is a profound recognition of the historical and contemporary significance of these lands. This monumental decision honors our integral role in the conservation process, amplifies Native voices, and protects these sacred homelands for generations yet to experience them.”

NCAI commends President Biden’s designation of the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument

Yesterday, the Senate passed the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA) Reauthorization bill as an attached amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023 by a vote of 86-11. NAHASDA, which has not been reauthorized since 2013, is the largest and most effective federal housing program that assists Tribal Nations in providing safe, quality and affordable housing to American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities.

“Our homes are the synergy in sustaining our living systems as tribes, including economy. NAHASDA has been a successful and supportive program of that since its inception. NAHASDA is the mechanism for self-determination in tribal housing. Its enactment allows tribes to create their own Indian Housing Plan, where they can prioritize senior assisted housing, rental assistance or homeownership. Reauthorization of NAHASDA means increased programming resources and stronger accountability. Adequate housing is vital to sustainability of tribal communities. This passage represents strong bipartisanship efforts to recognize trust responsibility and further supports self-determination of tribes,” said NAIHC Executive Director Chelsea Fish.

“Native communities continue to lag behind the rest of the country in safe, affordable, and accessible housing. A simple but critically important step to combat this issue is to reauthorize and make permanent NAHASDA, and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) applauds its passage in the Senate,” noted NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “NAHASDA’s overwhelmingly bipartisan passage in the Senate is a victory for Indian Country, and now the focus must turn to the House to fully realize this victory so that we can improve the lives of those living in our communities.”

NAIHC and NCAI join all of Indian Country in thanking Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Chairman Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Vice Chair Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for introducing amendment #1078 to reauthorize NAHASDA, and commend all those who have worked on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs over the years for their persistent efforts to improve this legislation and for the betterment of Indian Country. NAIHC, NCAI, will continue to work together—and with other partners—to advocate for passage of NAHASDA in the House and for its full implementation across Indian Country.



The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) is member organization that represents the unified voice of tribal housing programs across the nation. Established in 1974, NAIHC has a long-respected history of providing effective advocacy and quality training and technical assistance as well as hosting annual events that showcase best practices from tribal housing programs across the country. NAIHC advocates for tribal self-determination and improving housing conditions in tribal communities by working with tribes, tribal housing authorities, and tribally-designated housing entities (TDHEs). Learn more at

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

NAIHC and NCAI Celebrate the Inclusion of NAHASDA in 2023 National Defense Authorization Act

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has issued a statement in response to the Florida Board of Education’s recent decision to change its education standards for teaching American history. NCAI Treasurer Shannon Holsey provided the following statement:

“Native people are far too familiar with the devastating consequences caused by education systems that have at various times ignored, fabricated, and misrepresented the often painful histories of our people. And as the state of Florida threatens to dangerously alter the history of enslaved people and teach it to generations of future leaders, the National Congress of American Indians stands united with our diverse partners, both Native and non-Native, in shaping a promising future. We firmly believe that it is our responsibility to preserve our unique histories and not allow outsiders to rewrite them on our behalf. Together, we will champion our own history and ensure its accuracy and authenticity."

Native people are far too familiar with the devastating consequences caused by education systems that have at various times ignored, fabricated, and misrepresented the often painful histories of our people

This is an example of a quote without an attribution.

NCAI Issues Statement in Response to Florida Board of Education's Decision to Change History Teaching Standards

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has issued a statement in response to the Florida Board of Education’s recent 

decision to change its education standards

 for teaching American history. NCAI Treasurer Shannon Holsey provided the following statement:

“Native people are far too familiar with the devastating consequences caused by education systems that have at various times ignored, fabricated, and misrepresented the often painful histories of our people. And as the state of Florida threatens to dangerously alter the history of enslaved people and teach it to generations of future leaders, the National Congress of American Indians stands united with our diverse partners, both Native and non-Native, in shaping a promising future. We firmly believe that it is our responsibility to preserve our unique histories and not allow outsiders to rewrite them on our behalf. Together, we will champion our own history and ensure its accuracy and authenticity."



The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) expressed disappointment with the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision to reject affirmative action policies in college admissions. NCAI President Fawn Sharp offered the following statement in response:

"Today's Supreme Court decision on affirmative action is exceptionally disappointing and fails to take into account the realities centuries of destructive policies can have on a population. By encouraging Native students to repress their culture and assimilate to Western ways of knowing, the Federal government’s educational policy fostered a spirit of alienation amongst Native youth that has carried across generations and stifled academic achievement--particularly with respect to postsecondary institutions. While everyone deserves to be considered on their merits, it does more harm than good to ignore the fact that Native people were subject to genocide, colonization, and assimilation. Only when these realities are confronted head-on will meaningful progress be made, which is why the National Congress of American Indians will continue to fight to bring visibility to these issues and look for solutions to ensure future generations have access to the education so many of our past generations did not."



The National Congress of American Indians Responds to U.S. Supreme Court’s Rejection of Affirmative Action

Today, Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland formally 

 the development of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative during her remarks at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 2021 Mid Year Conference. The announcement comes one month after the discovery of the remains of 215 children at the Kamloops Indian Residential School in Canada, which prompted NCAI to 

 the need for a formal Commission to study the impacts of the federal Indian Boarding School Policy in the United States.

NCAI President Fawn Sharp issued the following statement:

“The National Congress of American Indians commends the Department of Interior for taking the essential first step of providing an official account of the atrocities that Native children experienced during the boarding school era. By documenting who, what, when and where these egregious abuses occurred, Native families may not be able to fully heal, but they may be able to begin to reconcile with the past. Many mothers, fathers, siblings, and children of boarding school victims and survivors have walked on without ever knowing the full extent of what happened to their loved ones. But knowledge is power. By learning the truth, we can finally begin reconciling the past and healing for the future.”



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

NCAI President Sharp Addresses Today’s Announcement of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative

       WASHINGTON D.C.—On June 22, 2023, the United States Supreme Court refused to hold the United States accountable for water rights it holds in trust for the Navajo Nation. The Court’s decision in Arizona v. Navajo Nation held that the United States did not have an affirmative treaty or trust obligation to identify and account for Navajo Nation water rights in the Colorado River. While the Court agreed Tribal Nations indeed have water rights under the Winters doctrine, the Court nevertheless concluded there was no obligation to take steps to secure, or even identify, the water needed for the reservation. Winters rights, confirmed in the Winters case, are water rights tribal nations have to ensure their reservations are livable and productive.

       “The U.S. government excluded Navajo tribal citizens from receiving a share of water when the original apportioning occurred and today’s Supreme Court decision for Arizona v. Navajo Nation condoned this lack of accountability,” said Native American Rights Fund (NARF) 

. “Despite today’s ruling, Tribal Nations will continue to assert their water rights and NARF remains committed to that fight.”

       Thirty-seven tribal governments, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, and the San Luis Rey Indian Water Authority filed an 

 in support of the Navajo Nation in February 2023. The brief urged the Court to respect the Winters water rights doctrine and enforce the trust relationship under which the United States has an obligation to assure water for the Navajo Reservation.


       "Water is necessary for all life, and when our ancestors negotiated agreements with the United States to secure our lands and our protection, water was understood and still is understood to be inseparable from the land and from our peoples Today, the Supreme Court has once again assisted in the United States' centuries-long attempts to try to get out of the promises they have made to Tribal Nations by stating that treaties only secure access to water, but do not require the United States to take any steps to protect or provide that water to our people. While this decision is a setback, through unity and vigilant advocacy, will continue to defend our sovereignty and preserve our cultures and ways of life,” said 


       The amicus brief was filed by Professor Whiteman Runs Him; Professor Monte Mills, Native American Law Center at the University of Washington School of Law; Professor Dylan R. Hedden-Nicely, University of Idaho College of Law; and 

Founded in 1970, NARF is the oldest and largest non-profit dedicated to asserting and defending the rights of Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and individual Indians nationwide. For the past 48 years, NARF has represented over 275 Tribes in 31 states in such areas as tribal jurisdiction, federal recognition, land claims, hunting and fishing rights, religious liberties, and voting rights. For more information, visit www.narf.org.

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 www.ncai.org.

Joint Statement: U.S. Supreme Court decision leaves Navajo Nation still battling for water rights in Arizona v. Navajo Nation

We are overcome with joy that the Supreme Court has upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), which is widely regarded as the 

 of child welfare. To fully understand the implications of this decision, we are conducting a thorough legal review and will provide in-depth analysis this afternoon.

One thing is certain: ICWA is crucial for the safety and well-being of Native children and families and the future of Native peoples and Tribal Nations. The positive impact of today’s decision will be felt across generations.




The Protect ICWA Campaign (the Campaign) was established by four national Native organizations: the 

National Indian Child Welfare Association

. Together, the Campaign works to serve and support Native children, youth, and families through upholding the Indian Child Welfare Act. The Campaign works to inform policy, legal, and communications strategies with the mission to uphold and protect ICWA.

Protect ICWA Campaign Initial Statement on Brackeen Supreme Court Decision

 is a massive victory for Native children, Native families, and the future of Native peoples. The Court’s decision affirmed that the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is constitutional, puts the best interests of Native kids first, and is grounded in tribal sovereignty. This ruling respects the work that Tribal Nations have done for millennia to ensure Native kids stay connected to their families, communities, and cultures whenever possible.

Not only will this ruling allow Indian Country to continue to advocate for the best interests of Native children, but it also reaffirms what we have said and known all along: Tribal Nations are sovereign nations. Similar to states or foreign countries, Tribal Nations have the inherent powers of self-government and have the right to provide for the social, economic, safety, and cultural needs of their citizens.

For too long, ICWA’s opponents have used cases like Haaland v. Brackeen to try to undermine tribal sovereignty. Today, the Justices have sent a clear message that these biased, ahistorical attacks have no legal foundation and will not be tolerated. We hope this decision will lay to rest the political attacks, but let this case show that Indian Country and its many bipartisan allies are united in defense of Native children and of tribal sovereignty.

Today’s ruling is a ringing endorsement of the protections that ICWA requires. The ruling reinforces that ICWA is binding federal law. The court’s opinion adds momentum to collective efforts to increase ICWA compliance, enact state-based ICWA laws that build on ICWA’s strong foundation, and continue to support tribal child welfare and justice systems.

Indian Country stands together in joy with the countless allies who have supported us throughout this case.

Statement from NCAI President Fawn Sharp:

"This victory now means the extraordinary vision of Tribal Leaders who fought so long and hard to pass ICWA in 1978 is now perfected and will be the law of the land for generations to come. Our children, our future and our very existence as Native people will no doubt continue to survive and thrive just as our Creator intended and ancestors envisioned. Our prayers were answered and today we honor every voice that joined us to make clear Tribal Nations have an inherent sovereign right to protect the interests of our children and future."



The Protect ICWA Campaign (the Campaign) was established by four national Native organizations: the 

In a major win for Native families, Supreme Court Upholds the Constitutionality of ICWA

photo project provides a way for Native people to share these words

. Native people are encouraged to send in pictures of themselves holding signs with whatever it is that they are proud to be. It also provides a way for non-Native people to show their support. All non-Native people are asked to use the same language: #ProudToBe Standing With #NotYourMascot. This is a national movement of Americans across the country, Native and non-Native alike, who are standing against racism and demanding change. S

imon Moya-Smith (Oglala Lakota Nation) wrote about the effort at CNN.com, read it here: “

 Join us – share what you are #ProudToBe 

NCAI and ChangeTheMascot.org wants to thank the dozens of individuals – both Native and not – who have already participated in this effort. They are joined by 

 who have all been champions of this effort and who were all eager to show their support of this project. We welcome all those who would like to participate: 

Watch the Proud To Be video that started it all.

NCAI & ChangeTheMascot.org Announce Launch Of #ProudToBe Photo Project; Joined By Members Of Congress & Local Elected Officials

"It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of Head Councilman Joe Garcia, a beloved leader and esteemed member of the National Congress of American Indians family. His untimely departure is a significant loss for Indian Country, as he was a true culture keeper for his people and a dedicated advocate for Native Nations across the Southwest region.

Joe Garcia devoted his life to the service of his community, tirelessly working to uplift and empower all Tribal Nations. As the NCAI Southwest Region Vice President and former NCAI President, he embodied the spirit of unity and strength that we hold dear. His unwavering belief in the mission of NCAI, to foster collaboration and solidarity among all Tribal Nations, was evident in every endeavor he undertook.

Beyond his role as a leader, Joe Garcia was a mentor, a visionary, and a compassionate soul who touched the lives of many. He leaves a profound legacy of service, leadership, and cultural preservation. His commitment to ensuring the well-being and prosperity of future generations will forever be remembered.

During this time of grief, our thoughts and prayers are with Joe Garcia's family, friends, and the Ohkay Owingeh community. May they find solace in knowing that his contributions have made a lasting impact on Indian Country as a whole.

As we mourn the loss of this remarkable leader, mentor, and friend, let us also remember the lessons he taught us – to stand together, advocate tirelessly, and honor our rich cultural heritage. In his memory, we will continue to forge ahead, united and steadfast, to pursue a better future for all Native peoples."

Fawn Sharp
President
National Congress of American Indians

Statement from NCAI President Fawn Sharp on the Passing of Head Councilman Joe Garcia

On April 17, 2023, the South Dakota Board of Education Standards, in a 5-2 decision, voted to adopt new Social Studies standards. After a two-year transition period, the standards will be taught state-wide in the fall of 2025. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) stand in solidarity with the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition (SDEEC) and the nine Tribal Nations of South Dakota in opposition of the revisions to the K-12 Social Studies Standards.

NIEA Executive Director Diana Cournoyer commented, “It is disappointing that South Dakota has rejected calls from Tribal Nations to engage in meaningful consultation and collaboration on standards that are important not just for Native students, but all students in the state. Tribal Nations have been vocal in their opposition to the proposed standards and have provided solutions to address state education leader’s concerns. Ensuring Native history and culture is accurately represented in South Dakota’s newly adopted standards will be difficult without consultation and collaboration with Tribal Nations. Despite these setbacks, we know our communities will continue to advance their educational goals and support the teaching of a full and accurate history of tribal communities in and around South Dakota. We hope South Dakota will learn from other states, like North Dakota, which recently passed Senate Bill 2304, ensuring Native history is taught as a requirement for high school graduation.”

NCAI President Fawn Sharp responded to the adoption of the standards, saying, “The state of South Dakota failed to adequately consult Tribal Nations before adopting standards that will not only greatly impact all Native children, but also affect how Native people are understood across the entire state. Now, not only will Native children be robbed of educational opportunities to learn about their history and heritage, but this week’s decision by the South Dakota Board of Education continues centuries of trying to erase Native people from history and make us invisible—but we are here, we are resilient, and we won’t rest until we ensure equitable and respectful treatment of all our peoples and all of our histories.”

Numerous South Dakota Educational Organizations, including SDEEC and the South Dakota Great Plains Tribal Education Directors called upon the South Dakota Department of Education to engage in effective tribal consultation and collaborate with Indigenous educators to ensure adequate representation of Native peoples and cultures.

In 2018, the South Dakota State Board of Education adopted the Oceti Sakowin standards, a set of essential understandings developed by tribal working groups. In 2021, a workgroup that included tribal representation and leadership presented a draft of standards that incorporated the Oceti Sakowin essential understandings throughout K-12. The new standards eliminated many of these earlier inclusions, and were adopted despite 1,137 comments in opposition, 121 comments in favor, and 37 neutral comments.

The new standards include only six, of more than one hundred total, that directly reference Native peoples. Under the newly approved changes, after a student exits the seventh grade, they will encounter only two standards that directly reference Native peoples during the final five years of their public education.

NCAI and NIEA urge all educational standards be developed with meaningful consultation with Tribal Nations in order to halt the continued marginalization of Native voices and history.

About the National Indian Education Association:

The National Indian Education Association (NIEA) is the nation’s most inclusive advocacy organization advancing comprehensive culture-based educational opportunities for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Formed by Native educators in 1969 to encourage a national discourse on education, NIEA adheres to the organization’s founding principles - to convene educators to explore ways to improve schools and the educational systems serving Native children; to promote the maintenance and continued development of language and cultural programs; and to develop and implement strategies for influencing local, state, and federal policy and decision makers. For more information, visit

National Native Organizations Respond to South Dakota Revisions to K-12 Social Studies Standards

Washington, DC | The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) commends the bipartisan group of U.S. Senators who have 

urged universities and museums to comply with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 (NAGPRA)

. U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Vice Chairman of the Committee, have led this effort to ensure that Native American ancestral remains and cultural items are returned to their rightful communities.



The Senators sent letters to the University of California - Berkeley, Harvard University, Illinois State Museum, Indiana University, and the Ohio History Connection following media reports that these institutions have not fulfilled their obligation to return Native American cultural items and ancestral remains pursuant to NAGPRA.



NCAI President Fawn Sharp issued a statement commending the Senators' bipartisan efforts. "For centuries, our cultural items, our sacred items, and our ancestors have been taken from us and kept from us, but today's efforts acknowledge what we have long said: there is no acceptable reason to continue this practice and no acceptable reason for delays—now is the time to right this historic and ongoing wrong," Sharp said.



NCAI supports the Senators' call to action and calls on all institutions of higher education to comply with NAGPRA and return Native American cultural items and ancestral remains to their rightful owners. This is an essential step toward acknowledging the historic and ongoing wrongs inflicted upon American Indian and Alaska Native communities.


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 www.ncai.org.

The National Congress of American Indians Commends Bipartisan Efforts to Urge NAGPRA Compliance

 repudiating long held, church-endorsed concepts that "fail[ed] to recognize the inherent human rights of indigenous peoples, including what has become known as the legal and political 'doctrine of discovery.'"

"The National Congress of American Indians commends Pope Francis and the Catholic Church for finally repudiating the dehumanizing Doctrine of Discovery and acknowledging what Indigenous peoples have known all along—that the Doctrine ‘did not adequately reflect the equal dignity and rights of Indigenous peoples'. It is no secret that many governments -- including the United States -- have relied on this doctrine to justify the mistreatment of Indigenous peoples and the taking of our lands. It is our sincere hope that today’s announcement is more than mere words, but rather is the beginning of a full acknowledgement of the history of oppression and a full accounting of the legacies of colonialism—not just by the Roman Catholic Church, but by all the world governments that have used racism, prejudice and religious authority to not only justify past inequalities, but to allow, fuel, and perpetuate the institutionalization of those inequalities that continue to this very day. We thank the Creator that Indigenous peoples are strong, resilient, full of wisdom, faith, hope, and love, and we stand ready to have difficult conversations about the future and to work together to build off of today’s step forward to bring about meaningful positive change to our people and nations, and for the healing, reconciliation and restoration of all peoples across the globe.”

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 

NCAI Statement on Vatican's Repudiation of "Doctrine of Discovery"

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 

 urging the swift confirmation of Patrice H. Kunesh to take place this week so that she can begin to serve as Commissioner of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Native Americans (ANA). ANA works to promote self-sufficiency and economic opportunity for Native Americans by providing funding for community-based projects, training, and technical assistance to eligible Tribal Nations and Native organizations.

“Patrice understands that investing in tribal communities is essential to helping them achieve self-sufficiency and prosperity," said Fawn Sharp, President of the National Congress of American Indians. "Her commitment to Native language preservation, social and economic development, and understanding of how best to use federal funds will be valuable if confirmed to this important role."

As Commissioner, Kunesh will be responsible for promoting self-sufficiency through ANA's funding, training, and technical assistance programs. She will also work with other HHS programs and federal agencies such as the Administration for Children and Families to maximize resources on behalf of Native communities.

Kunesh, who is of Standing Rock Lakota descent, is a highly accomplished leader and advocate for Native communities. As the founder of Pe?í? Haha Consulting, she has worked to empower Native populations by augmenting their assets and promoting social and human capital development. Her extensive experience includes head positions at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of the Interior, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation; as well as teaching faculty roles at University South Dakota School Of Law and various posts at the Native American Rights Fund (NARF).

"Nominee Patrice Kunesh understands the unique needs of Tribal Nations and has been an advocate for their interests throughout her career," said Sharp. "We strongly urge her swift confirmation as ANA Commissioner to lead the important work of the agency to support all Native peoples.”

NCAI Urges Confirmation of Patrice H. Kunesh as Commissioner for the Administration for Native Americans

 Today, Keep America Beautiful, Inc. announced the transfer of ownership of the well-known “Crying Indian” anti-pollution public service announcement that first aired on Earth Day in 1971, to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Fund. 

The advertisement, which became synonymous with furthering environmental protection and awareness in popular culture at the time of its creation, was later known for featuring imagery that stereotyped American Indian and Alaska Native people and misappropriated Native culture.

Keep America Beautiful, a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire and educate people to take action to improve and beautify their community environment, decided it was time to officially retire the advertisement.

The property has now been assigned to the NCAI Fund, a 501(c)(3) public education nonprofit organization that is the oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities.

“NCAI is proud to assume the role of monitoring the use of this advertisement and ensure it is only used for historical context; this advertisement was inappropriate then and remains inappropriate today,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “NCAI looks forward to putting this advertisement to bed for good.”

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 

National Congress of American Indians Acquires Rights, Retires “Crying Indian”

Indian Country Releases Comprehensive Recommendations
for Federal Government to Meet Trust Responsibility

Washington, DC - American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments and communities are bracing to be hit hard by the looming budget sequestration set to take place on March 1, 2013. Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) outlined the critical situation in letters to leading members of Congress this week. In the letters, NCAI outlined how an annual 5 percent across the board sequestration would lead to devastating impacts to health care systems, law enforcement, education, and other essential governmental services for tribal governments and communities. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) estimates the effective percentage reduction will be approximately 9 percent for non-defense programs because the reduction will be implemented over the remaining seven months of the fiscal year.

The letters from the NCAI President come the week before the annual State of Indian Nations Address to be delivered by Keel from Washington, DC on February 14, 2013.

Letters sent to Chairwoman Maria Cantwell (WA) and Vice Chairman John Barrasso (WY) of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs (SCIA) included the release of the annual Indian Country Budget Request publication. Letters were also sent to Representatives Tom Cole (OK) and Betty McCollum (MN), Co-Chairs of the House Native American Caucus, and Chairman Don Young (AK) and Ranking Member Colleen Hanabusa (HI) of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska Native Affairs.

Fiscal Year 2014 Indian Country Budget Request: Supporting Tribal Economic Security and Prosperity

, was authored by NCAI in collaboration with tribal governments and 30 national and regional tribal organizations. The organization also plans to release the comprehensive recommendations to every member of Congress. In letters to each member, NCAI is calling on Congress to step forward and work with tribes to support economic security and prosperity for American Indian and Alaska Native people.

In the letter, Keel called on Congress to take immediate action to stop any cuts in the Indian Country budget and urged the federal government not to compromise the federal trust responsibility in any budget deal or sequester replacement:

“Congress will consider ways to address the debt ceiling, the remaining FY 2013 spending bills, sequestration, and the FY 2014 budget, and NCAI urges you to protect Indian program funding while Congress looks for more deficit reduction.

We also urge Congress to not include further cuts to non-defense discretionary programs overall. The approach to deficit reduction has so far been unbalanced. Discretionary programs have contributed $1.5 trillion in spending cuts from the Fiscal Year 2011 Continuing Resolution, the bipartisan Budget Control Act, and the bipartisan American Taxpayer Relief Act, while revenues have contributed just $600 billion. Additional cuts in discretionary programs would put the health, education, safety, and security of all Americans at risk.”

Already working to recover from decades of unmet investment requirements and facing persistent shortfalls, the Indian Country Budget Request highlights funding required to uphold the federal government’s responsibility to tribal nations.

Tribes would experience unsustainable cuts under the proposed sequestration. In the letters , NCAI specifically called for the budget of the Indian Health Service (IHS) to be exempt from any sequestration reductions or at least limited to the 2 percent sequester reduction limit.

IHS provides a wide range of clinical, public health and community services and serves 2.1 million American Indians and Alaska Natives through over 650 hospitals, clinics, and health stations on or near Indian reservations. IHS employs approximately 15,700 people. According to new estimates by the OMB indicates that the IHS and tribal hospitals and clinics would be forced to provide 3,000 fewer inpatient admissions and 804,000 fewer outpatient visits.

Called a “a quiet crisis” in a 2003 report by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, funding of the federal trust responsibility for essential tribal government services has been impacted in recent years by efforts to reduce the deficit enacted through the bipartisan Budget Control Act. The authority to fund tribal programs that fulfill the trust responsibility is founded in the Constitution, specifically the Indian Commerce Clause, the Treaty Clause and the Property Clause.

“Tribal programs, as part of the discretionary budget, have already done their part to reduce the deficit through the bipartisan Budget Control Act. Continued cuts will have severe consequences for every tribal citizen. Tribes urge the President and Congress to uphold the solemn promises of the trust responsibility throughout the federal budget in FY 2013 and future years. Further deficit reduction – including cancellation of sequestration through 2021 – must include additional revenues and non-defense discretionary funding should not be cut further. The 2013 sequestration should not be replaced with lowered discretionary caps. In 2013 and beyond, sequestration cuts should be replaced with balanced deficit reduction, including revenues. As the nation continues to debate the appropriate role and size of the federal government and how best to foster a stronger American economy, Indian Country remains committed to the work of rebuilding and shoring up tribal societies, bolstered with the tools of self-determination and self-government.”

Fiscal Year 2014 Indian Country Budget Request: Supporting tribal economic security and prosperity.

Download the entire document or download sections of the document

The following organizations contributed to the publication 

American Indian Higher Education Consortium

Bureau of Indian Affairs Self-Governance Advisory Committee

Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission

Environmental Protection Agency National Tribal Operations Committee

Indian Health Service Tribal Self-Governance Advisory Committee

National American Indian Court Judges Association

National Association of Indian Legal Services

National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers

National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development

National Indian Health Service Tribal Budget Formulation Workgroup

National Tribal Contract Support Costs Coalition

National Wildlife Federation Tribal Lands Conservation Program

Native Community Development Financial Institutions Network

Tribal Education Departments National Assembly

Looming Budget Sequestration Poses Threat to Security and Progress for Tribal Nations and American Indian and Alaska Native Communities

WASHINGTON, DC | Today, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Fawn Sharp begins her participation in the week-long 

 (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. The 53rd annual convening of the WEF will bring together more than 3,000 individuals from both the public and private sector to “engage in peer-to-peer deliberations in the spirit of improving the state of the world” according to the WEF website.

“It is an honor to be able to participate in the World Economic Forum this year and to have an opportunity to work with individuals from around the planet to find a path forward on the greatest threats to our planet and our communities,” said Sharp. “I am particularly blessed to be able to raise the voice of Indigenous peoples from across the globe during the meetings and make sure that we are heard.”

Sharp’s engagement at WEF builds on NCAI’s continued dedication to advancing the rights of Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples internationally. Sharp has dedicated much of her life—including her time as NCAI President—to fighting for tribal sovereignty and tribal self-determination, including advancing the rights guaranteed to all Indigenous peoples under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

While attending WEF, Sharp’s schedule includes involvement in a number of different matters, including addressing global climate change. “There is no issue more critical to the lives of Indigenous peoples and to the health of our shared home than global climate change,” Sharp noted, “and even in the face of incredible odds, I know the invaluable contributions to the fight against Climate Change that Native Americans and our Indigenous relatives globally will make to turn the tide.”

Sharp will be in attendance at the WEF through its conclusion on January 20, 2023. To follow Sharp’s activities at WEF, visit www.ncai.org or follow NCAI’s social media accounts @NCAI1944.



NCAI President Fawn Sharp to Attend World Economic Forum

Washington, DC | Today, Congress enacted a Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 omnibus spending package, including a historic provision providing advance appropriations for the Indian Health Service (IHS). Prior to this change, IHS was the only federal healthcare provider without basic certainty of funding from one year to the next.

The Indian health system serves approximately 2.5 million patients at IHS, Tribal facilities, and urban Indian organizations, and was created to meet the U.S. trust responsibility to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of all Native people to the highest standard. Unfortunately, Indian healthcare remains chronically underfunded – a U.S. policy exacerbated by disruptions in the discretionary appropriations process.

With advance appropriations, American Indians and Alaska Natives will no longer be uniquely at risk of death or serious harm during delays in an FY 2024 funding agreement. Inclusion of IHS advance appropriations in the spending bill means that IHS services will be protected from the harmful effects of disruptions in federal funding for FY 2024 because Congress has agreed to an amount this year that becomes available immediately on October 1, 2023.

“We applaud Congress and the White House for listening to Native communities and doing what is right. For far too long, the federal government has allowed political disputes over budgets to jeopardize the lives of American Indian and Alaska Native people. Every single time there is a stopgap budget, the funding for urban Indian health clinics is deferred and reduced. This compromises the delivery of health care. We look forward to working with our leaders to help the United States make good on its responsibility to provide health care for the people who gave up the land we are on today.”

- Sonya Tetnowski (Makah), President of the National Council of Urban Indian Health

“Including advance appropriations for Indian health in the omnibus is a historic moment for Indian Country over a decade in the making. While Indian health remains chronically underfunded, this provision will help ensure that the Indian Health Service can provide stable, uninterrupted care to our people even when there is a government shutdown. We are confident that we can build on this win and continue our work toward full and mandatory funding for the Indian Health Service, fulfilling the promises this country made to our people over two centuries ago.”

- William Smith (Valdez Native Tribe), President of the National Indian Health Board

“The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) in partnership with our invaluable allies at the National Indian Health Board (NIHB) and the National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) have fought for years to get advanced appropriations for the Indian Health Service (IHS) and commends Congress for taking this critically important step for Indian Country. This historic decision comes not a moment too soon as Indian Country continues to be plagued by an ongoing health crisis that affects all of our communities. This week's action represents a meaningful step taken by the United States towards fulfilling its trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations and we are grateful for it as we continue to call on the United States to make good on all of its promises made to our ancestors so that our communities may continue to thrive."

- Fawn Sharp (Quinault Indian Nation), President of the National Congress of American Indians

This success would not have been possible without all the advocacy from Tribes, Tribal organizations and Urban Indian organizations. As part of this effort, the National Indian Health Board, the National Congress of American Indians, and the National Council of Urban Indian Health have been part of a broad coalition of advocates and champions for IHS advance appropriations. Our organizations would like to thank the coalition for its dedication and leadership during this endeavor.

We would like to also provide special thanks to Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, and the Biden-Harris administration for championing this historic change, as well as House and Senate appropriators, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, the House Committee on Natural Resources, the House Native American Caucus, and all of Indian Country’s champions throughout Congress. Finally, we would like to thank Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Becerra, IHS Director Roselyn Tso, and all the OMB and HHS staff who worked tirelessly to realize this moment. Together, we made history.

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