The future of America’s critical mineral resources lies beneath the lands of our nation’s original owners, the Native American tribes. As our country faces a pressing need for minerals crucial to energy transition and national security, it’s time to look at these resources through a lens of respect, partnership, and shared prosperity. A recent report from the Center for Strategic and…
At a pivotal moment, the Oglala Sioux Tribe faces a rising tide of criminal activity on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Stark realities come to light: only 33 officers and eight investigators are available to answer over 100,000 emergency calls yearly, spread across an expansive 5,400 square-mile territory. And what of the federal government’s role? Disappointingly, their assistance is mired in…
It is a privilege to engage with the Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation (NASP) during this Thanksgiving season—a festive time steeped in the American tradition that champions values of community and generosity. This period resonates with sharing and commemorating the varied histories that compose the fabric of our nation. Historical figures like Tisquantum and Ousamequin exhibited the earliest form…
Attention, fellow Indigenous culture enthusiasts and supporters of Native American heritage! November 15th marks a significant day in our calendar – Roc Your Mocs Day. It’s a day when we proudly celebrate our rich traditions, and one of the best ways to do so is by showcasing our beautifully crafted moccasins. Interest in our Indigenous culture has been steadily growing,…
The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, with a community of about 55,000 members, has been engaged in a long-standing battle for federal recognition. Despite being formally recognized by North Carolina in 1885, they have faced continuous challenges in gaining full federal recognition, granting them access to crucial benefits for education, health care, and economic development. This nonpartisan issue has been highlighted…
Recent media, including Ken Burns’s “The American Buffalo” and “Killers of the Flower Moon,” shed light on the historical injustices faced by Native Americans. These works highlight the broken treaties and exploitation that led to their poverty. The authors of a recent Op-Ed on The Hill, Terry Anderson and Thomas Stratmann, coauthors of “A Reservation Economic Freedom Index,” delve into how…
Fellow Tribal Citizens in Arizona and across our nations, the call to action has never been more urgent. As we stand amidst an economy where food prices have soared by 20%, energy costs (electricity and gas) have escalated by a staggering 38.8%, and housing prices have climbed 17.7%, the resilience of our people are being tested once more. These aren’t just numbers; they are challenges to our livelihoods, pressing…
Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave individuals who have served our country, and as a Native American, it holds a special meaning for me. Our warriors have a long history of defending our lands and standing alongside other Americans during war. This day is a chance to remember the sacrifices made and look towards creating a better…
As we step into the reflective season of Native American Heritage Month, we look back at our Emergence, Culture, and Contributions that have tirelessly melded the identity of our Indigenous communities. Our roots run deep, nurtured by the ancient wisdom of our relatives. However, as we honor our past, we must also cast a vigilant eye toward the future to…
In the realm of American cinema, few films have garnered as much attention and anticipation as Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Based on the real-life 1920s murders of Osage members after the discovery of oil on their Oklahoma land, the film promised to shed light on a dark chapter of American history. However, despite the involvement of many…
