DEI is DOA, Embracing a Renewed Government-to-Government Relationship with the Trump Administration

In a landmark move, President Donald J. Trump, now serving as the 47th President of the United States, announced the closure of all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices across federal agencies. While this decision has spurred varied reactions nationwide, we at Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation—a conservative, treaty-based nonprofit organization—are respectfully supportive of the President’s move. Our support stems from a clear affirmation of the unique nation-to-nation relationship between Tribal Nations and the U.S. federal government—one distinct from the broader “people of color” or “BIPOC” framework.

Since time immemorial, Indigenous Nations have held sovereign status, predating the formation of the United States itself. This sovereignty has been acknowledged and enshrined through numerous treaties, Supreme Court decisions, executive orders, and memoranda of understanding (MOUs). When Tribal Nations are grouped into generic categories such as “minorities” or “BIPOC,” our inherent political status is overshadowed, potentially diminishing recognition of the obligations the federal government has toward us as sovereign entities.

Respecting Distinct Sovereignty

By closing the DEI offices—which often folded Native issues under broader demographic designations—President Trump’s administration is effectively underscoring the federal government’s duty to engage with us as sovereign partners. Rather than being seen solely through the lens of social equity or diversity, Tribal Nations stand on equal footing with other states and nations around the globe. We embrace this renewed governmental approach as an opportunity to re-center discussions on our political and legal status, strengthening our direct lines of communication and collaboration with federal agencies.

Historic Foundations of Nation-to-Nation Relations

Our sovereignty is neither a new concept nor a matter of identity politics; it is a political reality grounded in:

Treaties: Numerous treaties signed by Tribal Nations and the United States confirm mutual respect and clearly delineate responsibilities.
Legal Precedents: Key Supreme Court decisions, such as Worcester v. Georgia, have upheld the principle of Tribal sovereignty, safeguarding it from encroachment by individual states.
Executive Actions: Former executive orders and MOUs reinforce the obligation of federal agencies to consult with Tribal Nations on matters affecting our lands, resources, and governance.
Moving Forward with the Trump Administration

With the DEI offices closed, we envision a streamlined, more direct engagement with the Trump administration—one that emphasizes programmatic agency development and fosters effective intergovernmental relationships. This path opens the door for:

Targeted Support: Federal programs crafted specifically for Tribal Nations, reflective of our economic, cultural, and environmental priorities.
Enhanced Consultation: Meaningful government-to-government consultation as an integral part of agency decision-making, ensuring tribal voices guide policies that impact our communities.
Mutual Prosperity: Strengthening capacities for economic development, health care services, and educational opportunities within Indian Country, benefiting Native communities while reinforcing overall American prosperity.
Conclusion

As the nation observes this significant shift in the federal policy framework, we at Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation look forward to forging a robust partnership with the Trump administration. We stand ready to work hand-in-hand with federal agencies—just as states do, and just as other nations around the world do—to protect our lands, uplift our communities, and honor the government-to-government relationship rooted in centuries-old treaties and solemn commitments.

By respecting our inherent political status and reinforcing direct communication, this new chapter reaffirms the sovereignty of Tribal Nations and promises a brighter, more collaborative future for Indigenous peoples throughout the United States.