Empowering Native American Sovereignty – Positive Federal Actions Under the Trump Administration

In recent months, the Trump administration has taken decisive steps to support tribal nations and indigenous communities across the United States. These measures are designed to strengthen tribal sovereignty, foster economic growth, and enhance community well-being. At NASP, we proudly highlight federal initiatives that include historic land transfers and innovative health and safety programs that make a tangible difference for Native Americans. Positive endorsements from FBI Director Kash Patel, who has pledged to address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people, and HHS Director Robert Kennedy Jr, who has outlined plans to improve the Indian Health Service, add to this commitment. DOI Secretary Doug Burgum continues to expand tribal participation in areas such as energy, housing, and overall sovereignty.

NASP Director said, “I am deeply encouraged by these transformative initiatives that honor our heritage and empower our communities. We are witnessing a new era of Indigenous empowerment that strengthens our roots and opens new pathways for progress.”

Historic Land Transfers and Strengthened Tribal Sovereignty

A landmark achievement occurred on March 17, 2025, when 680 acres of land were transferred from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the Spirit Lake Nation in Benson County, North Dakota. This historic transfer reaffirms the deep-rooted connection that Native communities have with their ancestral lands. It paves the way for economic development and community empowerment. Secretary Burgum remarked that every acre returned is a significant step toward a more resilient and prosperous future for the Spirit Lake Nation.

Advancing Energy Independence and Economic Growth

On February 3, 2025 Secretary Burgum set forth a transformative vision for American energy dominance by signing a series of orders that streamline processes and drive innovation. These initiatives secure American energy independence while enhancing the management of public lands and natural resources. By promoting responsible stewardship and creating economic opportunities, these policies ensure that Native communities benefit directly from the nation’s energy advancements. “Together, we will ensure that our policies reflect the needs of our communities, respect tribal sovereignty, and drive innovation that will keep the U.S. at the forefront of energy and environmental leadership,” said Secretary Doug Burgum.

Operation Spirit Return – Addressing Long-Standing Justice Issues

The Bureau of Indian Affairs launched Operation Spirit Return on February 20, 2025 to resolve cases that have long troubled Indian Country. Operation Spirit Return focuses on solving missing and unidentified person cases among American Indians and Alaska Natives through advanced forensic genetic techniques and cross-agency collaboration. Operation Spirit Return offers hope for reuniting families and stands as a testament to the administration’s commitment to justice and tribal dignity.

Investing in Health and Tribal Infrastructure

Robust health systems are essential for community well-being. The Indian Health Service has introduced several key grant programs. These strategic investments ensure that Native communities are better equipped to manage health programs, modernize facilities, and deliver quality care that respects their unique cultural needs.

• Tribal Management Grants have awarded over $ 600,000 to bolster tribal management capacity and support self-determination.
• Community Opioid Intervention funding of $9,500,000 is set to combat the opioid epidemic in Indian Country with culturally appropriate prevention and treatment initiatives.
• The Small Ambulatory Program brings a $25,000,000 investment that will help eight tribes and tribal organizations improve or construct healthcare facilities to expand access to vital outpatient services.

Consistent with President Trump’s Cost Efficiency Initiative, DOGE is continuing to fund Indian Health programs by transparently posting daily payment records from the Program Support Center, ensuring that vital taxpayer dollars support essential healthcare services in Indian communities. As of March 9, 2025, the total amount of IHS-funded programs listed on DOGE is $1,131,694.

Federal Recognition for the Lumbee Tribe

President Trump directed the administration to advance full federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. Issued on January 23, 2025, this memorandum reinforces the federal commitment to provide long-overdue recognition that translates into full access to benefits, governmental autonomy, and protections under U.S. law. With this directive, the Lumbee Tribe stands to gain significant advantages, including improved access to programs offered by the Indian Health Service.

Everyday Impact – Lowering Costs at the Local Level

Federal actions also directly impact everyday life. Many communities have reported noticeable relief as egg and gas prices have dropped. These tangible reductions ease household budgets and reflect broader economic policies that foster affordability and stimulate local economies. Secretary Burgum and HUD Secretary Scott Turner just announced that they are opening unused federal lands for affordable housing, with a key focus on affordable housing for tribal communities.

Looking Ahead

We remain vigilant and continue to monitor reports regarding office and building leasing non-renewals that could affect service delivery to tribal nations. We keep track of developments related to the deductions and revocations of Executive Order 14049 on tribal colleges and Executive Order 14112 on federal funding and support for tribal nations. We are also reviewing potential changes in CDFI funding that could impact large-scale lending to tribal businesses and entities. In addition, efforts to ensure robust staffing and operational capacity at BIA and IHS offices remain a priority.

The second Trump administration’s proactive measures demonstrate a comprehensive approach to strengthening Native American sovereignty and economic self-determination. These range from empowering tribal land transfers and advancing energy independence to curbing illegal border crossings, removing harmful cartels, and providing a safe space for women in sports to addressing critical justice issues and bolstering health infrastructure. These initiatives show a genuine commitment to cultural heritage and community development and offer promising prospects for Indigenous communities today and future generations.