The ability of any nation to enact, enforce, and interpret its own laws and be governed by them is one of the most recognized powers of any sovereign. To ensure that Tribal Nations can safeguard against criminal activity, natural disasters, and national security threats, it is imperative that Tribal Nations have both the jurisdiction and the resources needed to keep tribal communities safe and secure for everyone.
NCAI’s many public safety and justice initiatives include advocacy for restored criminal jurisdiction, ending the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women (MMIW), and supporting the survivors of domestic violence and abuse. As a policy issue, MMIW refers to the ongoing efforts to reduce violence against American Indian / Alaska Native (AI/AN) women, prosecute crimes when they do occur, and provide culturally-appropriate services to victims and their families. Additionally, NCAI advocates to strengthen tribal law enforcement, improve coordination between federal agencies working for and within Indian Country, and urge the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Interior (DOI), and all other federal agencies to live up to their trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations. NCAI is committed to improving public safety within Tribal Nations, increasing access to justice for Native peoples, and protecting the health and well-being of tribal citizens.