The Strength of Our Nation: Honoring the Past, Present, and Future NATIONAL CONGRESS OF AMERICAN INDIANS ANNUAL REPORT • OCTOBER 1, 2005 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2006 FREEDOM’S WARRIOR Charles Banks Wilson 1942

Pictured behind the World War II combat soldier are the famous American Indian generals (left to right) Geronimo, Tecumseh, Sitting Bull, Chief Joseph, Powhatan, Blackhawk, Pontiac and Osceola. The painting is a tribute to the American Indians who have served their country in numbers far beyond any other minority. The World War II soldier in the forefront, Charles Chibitty, was the last living "” until his death in 2005.

Photo courtesy Charles Banks Wilson The Strength of Our Nation: Honoring the Past, Present, and Future

NATIONAL CONGRESS OF AMERICAN INDIANS ANNUAL REPORT • OCTOBER 1, 2005 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2006

NCAI Charter Members at the Constitutional Convention in Denver, CO November 15–18, 1944.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL CONGRESS OF has been the guardian of the official delegates to the NCAI Convention, AMERICAN INDIANS (NCAI) governmental rights of American Executive Council, and Conferences. Indians and Alaska Natives in The delegates debate and deliberate NCAI was founded by tribal leaders Washington, DC. on issues of pressing concern at NCAI in 1944 in response to termination meetings, presenting viewpoints in NCAI is the oldest, largest and most and assimilation policies that the accordance with their governments' representative national Indian forced upon the tribal policies, goals and needs. This structure organization in the country. The governments in contradiction of their enables NCAI to monitor national organization serves the needs of a treaty rights and status as sovereigns. policy and coordinate efforts to broad membership of Indian and These leaders stressed the need for impact federal decisions that affect Native governments, organizations unity and cooperation among tribal the interests of tribal governments. governments for the protection of tribal and people. NCAI is organized as a sovereignty and self-determination. representative Congress to establish a Over a half a century later, our goals consensus on national priority issues. remain unchanged. Since 1944, the Tribal governments pass laws to National Congress of American Indians become members of NCAI, selecting Message from the President

SENGITHAMU, OHKAY OWINGEHDI With the support of The White House I want to thank you for all you have NA?INBI SENGITUU WAY and Members of Congress, we have done this year to address these MA?I?,TAHKIDIBO NA?INBI T'OWA created a methamphetamine task important issues, making Indian BAHBEMUU force to help deal with the health Country a better place. Day-by-day, and public safety issues meth use month-by-month and year-by-year, What a year it has been for Indian and distribution is causing in our working together we can make a Country. My first year as president communities. We have collaborated difference. I look forward to the of this great organization has been with national organizations and challenges ahead. stock full of challenges and great federal officials, working together accomplishments. WAY TO? PINPEH,TASNPEH, AAKONPEH, to fight this problem head on. THANPIEH, NA?INBI SEDO INDEE WOVAY As I noted in my first State of Indian Together, we have come together WOWATSIMAANI HEDA BISEEGIMUNI, Nations address in February, Indian with one voice to push for the Indian SEHKANAAMUNI, T'AHKIDIBO? Country faces four areas of great Health Care Improvement Act challenge — Public Safety; Healthcare; Reauthorization of 2006. Because — Joe A. Garcia Education and the Economy; and The of your voice and your hard work, Trust Settlement. we are closer than ever before to I called these The Four Great Steps — bringing Indian health care into the the agenda for the Indian Nations modern age. We cannot wait any and called upon you to do your part longer and must continue the push to help meet the challenges in these for reauthorization. areas. I am more than encouraged Finally, the realization of settlement and very humbled in the amount of the Cobell litigation is within our of support and hard work I have grasp. For the sake of our future witnessed in such a short amount generations, this must be settled of time. now so that Congress can focus on pertinent legislation to improve the well being of Native people. With the support of the Administration and Congress and the voice of Indian Country I am confident we can now bring this dispute to a close.

1 • MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Message from the Executive Director

WÁA SÁ ITUWATEE. The current media and political From tribal leaders to youth in our environment has put NCAI and Indian communities, Indian people are Washington, D.C. is a busy place. The Country in a place where we must be coming together in ways that I have pace of following the legislative ahead of the game on all legislative never seen in the years I have spent calendar, making meetings on Capitol and media fronts. We have legislative working on Indian issues. I encourage Hill, planning for conferences & events and media campaigns in place now for you to continue your dedicated work and keeping the pulse of Indian other issues such as Indian Rights-of for Indian Country and thank you for Country can sometimes be close to Way, 8(a) government contracting, your commitment to NCAI. overwhelming — but it is something I trust reform settlement and the battle wouldn't trade for the world. The busy GUNALCHÉESH. to fight meth use among Native people. pace is an easy exchange for the end — Jacqueline L. Johnson result of an Indian Country that NCAI's Policy Research Center is also has become increasingly proactive, breaking new ground that will provide visionary and challenge driven. tremendous resources to aid in moving our agenda forward. In June, The progress we have seen in the hundreds of tribal leaders participated last year in terms of a productive in the first annual NCAI Policy legislative strategy and a proactive Research Center Tribal Leader/Scholar vision for the future of Indian Research Forum. This new stage Country has been monumental. for tribal leaders and scholars to In early 2006, Indian Country found collaborate is historic in nature and I itself in the crosshairs of the media am confident that it will soon be the and Congress when unfair campaign most established Indian think-tank in finance reform proposals for tribes the country. were floated on Capitol Hill. NCAI aggressively countered the argument that tribes were being provided with a 'loophole' in campaign giving. Through work on Capitol Hill, in the media and with help from throughout the country, we won this legislative battle with no new reforms to tribal campaign giving.

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • 2 Embassy of Tribal Nations

In 1944, the founding members of TO DATE, THE EMBASSY CAMPAIGN HAS AS INDIAN COUNTRY’S COLLECTIVE NCAI gathered to create an organization RAISED APPROXIMATELY $1.5 MILLION VOICE IN WASHINGTON, DC FOR that would serve as the collective in donations and pledges. In February HUNDREDS OF YEARS TO COME, 2006, the Shakopee Mdewakanton WE OWE IT TO FUTURE GENERATIONS voice for all Indian Country. More than TO MAKE SOUND FINANCIAL 60 years later, NCAI continues its Sioux Community of Minnesota DECISIONS TODAY. mission to advocate on behalf of all became the campaign’s first eagle American Indians and Alaskan Natives, donor by presenting a $1 million For more information on how to contribute to through preserving sovereignty and challenge contribution, encouraging the Embassy of Tribal Nations Capital Campaign please contact: enhancing self-determination. Today Indian Country to donate to the NCAI is taking the next step in Embassy campaign. Mellor C. Willie fulfilling our founders’ vision by Director of Development Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Vice- building the Embassy of Tribal Nations. National Congress of American Indians Chairman Glynn A. Crooks said, “We 1301 Connecticut Avenue, NW Suite 200 In October 2004, NCAI made a know that many tribes are not in the Washington, DC 20036 monumental decision to acquire its position of making a million dollar own building and launched the contribution to this project. But Embassy of Tribal Nations Capital considering the many tribes that are Campaign to support this effort. A members of NCAI, anything you are building purchase presents many able to give would help to make the benefits that meet the needs and embassy a reality." goals of the organization. Foremost, The excitement and enthusiasm builds NCAI will gain long term financial as donors continue to come forward to sustainability by reducing its current support the Embassy of Tribal Nations occupancy costs, building equity and Capital Campaign. The response from ownership in prime Washington, DC tribes is strong and now more than real estate. Second, NCAI will increase ever NCAI encourages individual tribal its available office space to meet members, businesses, companies, the expansion needs of its growing partners and friends of Indian Country organization. Finally, the building also to become a part of this monumental allows NCAI to house other national effort to create a permanent presence Indian organizations and tribes for Indian tribes in our nation’s capitol, NCAI First Vice-President Jefferson under one roof, thereby enhancing Washington, DC. Keel accepts a $1 million challenge collaboration and coordination. contribution for the Embassy of Tribal Nations Capital Campaign from Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Vice-Chairman Glynn A. Crooks.

3 • EMBASSY OF TRIBAL NATIONS LEFT: Native America Calling RIGHT: National Native News broadcasts live from Tulsa reporter Antonia Gonzales/ at NCAI’s 62nd Annual McConkey interviews then Convention and Trade Show NCAI regional Vice-President Communications Arlen Melendez

NCAI’s Communications and External media and made sure Congress had In May 2006, NCAI offered testimony Relations is crucial to the work of the the right message that there was no before Congress on the importance organization and is a now a part of loophole. NCAI won this effort and in of addressing the unique needs NCAI’s legislative agenda more than turn, hired a Washington DC based and status of Indian tribes in the ever before. NCAI is involved in an public relations firm to assist with formulation of telecommunications ongoing effort to bring Indian Country tackling these issues when they come policy. In addition, NCAI and the together as one collective voice, which up. This step is historic for NCAI as Federal Communications Commission is essential to our agenda set forth we ramp up the effort to stay “ahead (FCC) have convened on multiple to improve the lives of Native people of the story” and move forward with occasions to address the development through better health care, enhanced an aggressive media strategy n the and deployment of telecommunications public safety and other issues important months and years to come. technologies and services in Indian to Indian Nations. Country. In March of 2006, the NCAI In the last year NCAI released over Telecommunications Subcommittee As more and more Native publications 50 press releases, 4 issues of and the Consumer and Governmental and broadcasting units are covering The Sentinel and responded to over Affairs Bureau of the FCC hosted the Indian issues, there is also an increasing 500 media inquiries. NCAI also 4th Annual FCC-NCAI Dialogue on amount of mainstream media planned and coordinated more than 8 Improving Telecommunications in coverage of our issues and NCAI is press events. NCAI appeared in major Indian Country. The meeting between using its new communications strategy publications such as The Washington NCAI subcommittee members, Tribal to present a collective voice to be Post, The Seattle Times and the representatives and FCC senior actively involved in reporters’ stories. Arizona Republic, among others. officials served as a forum for NCAI’s new communications plan will TELECOMMUNICATIONS discussing how the FCC and NCAI ensure that Indian Country is ahead can work together to improve of the media curve for years to come. While much of the country is leaping telecommunications accessibility. In ahead in the digital revolution, Indian This year brought some significant July 2006, as part of the FCC’s Indian communities continue to struggle media challenges for NCAI and Indian Telecommunications Initiatives (ITI), with issues of basic access to Country as a whole. As an organization, the FCC and NCAI held a regional telecommunications services. Without NCAI found itself in the heart of many workshop and roundtable discussion in this access, tribal nations simply will stories involving campaign finance San Diego, CA focused on broadband not be able to compete and fully reform and the so-called “loophole” deployment issues on Tribal lands and prosper in the 21st century. NCAI language bantered about in the media the related economic empowerment continues its efforts to raise and Congress implying there was of Indian Country. awareness about the importance of a significant tribal loophole when it telecommunications services and came to campaign finance. NCAI technologies in Indian Country. actively countered these stories in the

COMMUNICATIONS • 4 Membership Meetings

NCAI membership continues at an ANNUAL CONVENTION EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SESSION all-time high with over 250 member tribes and over 1,500 individual "Celebrating 30 Years of Indian Tribal Leaders and representatives members. In August of 2003, NCAI Self-Determination" was the theme turned out in great numbers for the launched a membership campaign, for NCAI's 62nd Annual Convention NCAI's Annual Executive Council “Strengthen the Circle.” Through in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Session in Washington, D.C. February this initiative, the NCAI continues to Tribes were the host for this annual 27th – March 1st, 2006. This Tribal reach out to Indian Country to further convention, held October 30th – Nations Legislative Summit "109 develop a strong and united voice in November 4th, 2005. The theme was Congress Executive Council" focused Washington, D.C. and throughout the selected to acknowledge the 30 years on the upcoming legislative issues country. According to tribal enrollment that have passed since the Indian Self- concerning Indian Country and the figures from the BIA Indian Labor Determination Act and celebrate how session provided an opportunity for Force Report, NCAI’s combined tribal far we have come while envisioning tribal leaders and advocates to visit enrollment of member tribes is self-determination in the future. This congressional offices to discuss 1,223,783 out of the total tribal was an election year for NCAI and new current legislation as well. The session enrollment of 1,698,883. NCAI’s officers and executive board members also included the annual Leadership member tribes represent 72 percent were selected by the Tribes and Awards Banquet and the Capitol Hill of all enrolled tribal members in the individual Indian NCAI members Legislative Reception held at the country. This shows the strength present. Other highlights included the Smithsonian's National Museum of and unity of tribes as they continue 3rd Annual Health Walk partnered the American Indian. to work together in protecting tribal with NIKE and Indian Health Services sovereignty and advancing the featuring Olympic Gold medalist Billy NCAI Elections Chair welfare of Indian Country. Mills; the Gala Banquet featuring Juanita Ahtone swears Native American comedians and in newly elected performers; and the Miss NCAI pageant. members of the NCAI Executive Committee.

Newly elected NCAI officers (L to R) Secretary Juana Majel-Dixon, Treasurer W. Ron Allen, First Vice-President NCAI hosted a number Jefferson Keel and President of meetings through Joe A. Garcia receive out the year at our well wishes shortly after headquarters in the Executive Committee Washington, D.C. NCAI’s elections in Tulsa. location in the heart of Washington provides a place where tribal leaders can meet.

5 • MEMBERSHIP • MEETINGS he at the Mid- R Center's first Tribal Leader/Scholar feature was theNCAI Policy Research Indian Country today. Aspotlight as other current pressing issues facing international andborder issues aswell to inform participants onarange of state andinternational representatives provided aforum for Tribal, Federal, Assemblies andBreak-Out Sessions of HomelandSecurity. General and c in-depth, working sessions onculture leaders to meet for issue-specific, Place", was anideal location for tribal Ste. Marie, known as"The Gathering the Era of HomelandSecurity". Sault Our Borders: Culture &Commerce in 18th –21st, 2006. The themewas "Not Chippewa Indiansof MichiganJune by theSault Ste. MarieTribe of The Mid-Year Conference was hosted MID-YEAR CONFERENCE with implic esearch Forum onTuesday during t ar aboutthelat endee ommerce inthisnew era Y s av e ations f ar Conference. Itgave aluable oppor or trib e s t policy research al c ommunitie t unity to s . NCAI Policy Research Center Convenes 1st AnnualTribal Leader/Scholar Forum be me future research directions thatwould is beingconducted andto discuss to better understand theresearch that convening tribal leaders andscholars Research Center beganthepractice of By sponsoring theforum, thePolicy findings andimplications. representatives abouttheirresearch dis is non-Native scholars addressing Native in in S with the2006 Mid-Year conference Research Forum, heldinconjunction research methodologies thatallow economic development, finance, and topics assovereignty andlaw, r research findings andpolicy assembly session included current At thisyear’s Forum, thegeneral in ha in f important guidance and considerations or thework of researchers whoare ec sues to present theirwork andhave f teractive forum allowed Native and t ve significant contributions thatcan luenc er cussion withtribal leaders and ommendations related to such ault Ste. Marie, Michigan.This ested intheircommunities. They aningful t e fut ure research. Tribal Leader/Scholar Policy Research Center the first annualNCAI leaders participated in hundreds of tribal On June20, 2006, o tribe s . T ribe s ha v e r Policy Research Center. The next is asignature product of theNCAI The annualtribal leader/scholar forum Anchorage, Alaska. The center has the 2007 NCAI Mid-Year Session in t f in Indian La “Towards aNew Realismin Federal Empo “Community-Based Research and Ranging from suchtopics as to engagetribal leaders. further topics allowing for in-depth discussions breakout sessions ontheirresearch from themorningsessions conducted Throughout theafternoon, presenters • “Tribal Sovereignty andSelf- • • “Testing U.S. Supreme Court presentations were: and withtheircitizens. Amongthe to control research ontheirlands tribes to exercise theirsovereignty indings, research methods, andhow o fr e “Solving theGrowth Puzzle: t search forum willbeheldduring Determination through Evaluation.” Americ Socioeconomic Changeonthe Understanding Variation in Sovereignty,” Assumptions Regarding Tribal erpr ame fut w etation andvalidity of research ermen w,” thetalks centered onthe an IndianReservations,” and ur NCAI POLICY RESEARCH CENTER•6 t Me e research questions. thodologie s ” t Geroo nimo also launched a website and will GRETA GOTO continue to disseminate research Senior Vice-President, First Alaskans finding to Indian Country. Institute, and Director, Alaska Native Policy Center NCAI POLICY RESEARCH CENTER ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS INCLUDE: JACQUELINE JOHNSON Executive Director, National Congress W. RON ALLEN of American Indians Chairman, Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe, and Treasurer, National Congress of ANDREW LEE American Indians Director of Research and Policy Analysis, Aetna, Inc. SHERRY SALWAY BLACK Executive Director, JUANA MAJEL-DIXON Ovarian Cancer National Alliance Councilwoman, Pauma-Yuima Band of Mission Indians, and Secretary, DR. EDDIE F. BROWN National Congress of American Indians Professor and Director of American Indian Studies, DR. YVETTE ROUBIDEAUX Arizona State University Assistant Professor, Mel and Enid Zuckerman Arizona College of Public CHERYL CRAZY BULL Health, University of Arizona President, Northwest Indian College BENNY SHENDO TERRY CROSS Cabinet Secretary, State of New Executive Director, National Indian Mexico, Indian Affairs Department Child Welfare Association VICTORIA SUTTON JOHN ECHOHAWK Chief Counsel, Research and Executive Director, Native American Innovative Technology Administration, Rights Fund U.S. Department of Transportation, KELLER GEORGE and Robert H. Bean Professor of Law (on leave), Texas Tech University Wolf Clan Representative to the NCAI’s Policy Research Center’s first Oneida Nation Men’s Council, School of Law World Café roundtable discussions Oneida Indian Nation, and President, took place at the Annual Convention EDDIE TULLIS in Tulsa. United South and Eastern Tribes Councilman, Poarch Band of Creek Indians

7 • NCAI POLICY RESEARCH CENTER $ Indian money account holders for would settle allclaimsof Individual Trust Reform Act of 2006. The bill discussion draft of S. 1439, theIndian on IndianAffairs released anew On August 4, theSenate Committee and markupthelegislation. Affairs hasbeenworking to redraft and theSenate Committee onIndian br Council Winter Session. The hearing the same timeastheNCAI Executive at apivotal hearing inearly March at testified of insupport thelegislation v 2006 the attention hasbeendevoted to S. 1439, a great deal of tribal effort and trust reform efforts thisyear. First, Two issues have dominated NCAI’s TRUST REFORM Legislative Affairs me S the August recess thestaff of the assets ontheirreservations.During take over greater control of thetrust bring theissue to resolution. the Committee andtribal leaders to NCAI iscommitted toworking with C mee olun enate Committee onIndianAffairs 8 billionandthebillcr oun eathed new life into thelegislation t withtheA INDIAN TRUST REFORM ACT OF tings inv . NCAI President JoeGarcia try t t ary pr o discuss thelegislation. oc arious p e dminis s s for Indiantribes to tration andheld ar t s of Indian e at e s a critic Land inTrust (25 CFR151) are of The regulations for Acquisition of of 2004. American IndianProbate Reform Act regulations thatimplement the and commenting onprobate related consultation meetings andreviewing spent muchof thisyear attending in DOI s At therequest of tribal leaders, s Joe Gar to leases to probate. NCAI President dozen critical areas, from landto trust trust regulations covering over a of Interior sent outcopies of draft late December 2005, theDepartment the Department of Interior (DOI).In and w the DOI indicates thatthey planto revise with Second, NCAI hasbeenvery involved number of thetribal complaints about Applications.” The report confirms a Improve Processing of LandinTrust Frames andCollect Better Data Should titled “BIA’s Efforts to Impose Time processing of landto trust applications de A NC o many regulations allinoneeffort. c to smallergroups, andwe have v c AI met withtheGovernment se regulations inthe coming year elopmen oun TRUST REGULATIONS al impor egmented theregulations e ha ting Office of asapart their cia urged DOInot to take up v e beenworking to prepare. t o t anc f ar e t epor o IndianC t onthe drafted by oun try . regulations. on thediscussion aboutthe25 CFR151 delays andislikely to have aninfluence lack of timeframes andunreasonable LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS •8 shortly afterbeingelected.shortly prays withasupporter NCAI President JoeA.Garcia Tecumseh TRIBAL SUPREME COURT PROJECT Intertribal Transportation Alliance, the decision upholding tribal civil National Intertribal Tax Alliance, the jurisdiction over an accident involving The Tribal Supreme Court Project and other Kansas tribes, and more than 30 a non-member Indian. Cert was denied was formed in 2001 in response to a individual Indian tribes. The Project in June. The Project also worked on series of U.S. Supreme Court cases also worked closely with the Prairie MORRIS V. TANNER and MEANS V. that negatively affected tribal Band in persuading the U.S. Solicitor , which both involve a sovereignty. The purpose of the General’s Office to support the Tribe. challenge to tribal criminal authority Project is to improve coordination and Even with all the hard work on the over nonmember Indians. We have strategy on litigation that may affect case, the Supreme Court handed down also been closely monitoring UTAH V. the rights of all Indian tribes. We a very disappointing decision that SHIVWITS BAND OF PAIUTE and SOUTH encourage Indian tribes and their reversed the 10th Circuit opinion and DAKOTA V. U.S., both challenges to attorneys to contact the Project in our upheld the state tax on tribal motor federal authority to take land into effort to coordinate resources and fuel sales. trust. Decisions on cert should be prepare briefs, especially at the time made early in the October 2006 term. of the petition for a writ of certiorari, The Supreme Court also denied the prior to the Supreme Court accepting Tribes’ and the United States’ petitions At the Circuit Court level, the Project a case for review. The Project is for cert in CAYUGA INDIAN NATION V. has been heavily involved in staffed by NCAI and the Native PATAKI and U.S. V. PATAKI. The U.S. supporting the tribal sovereignty in American Rights Fund. The Project Court of Appeals for the Second SAN MANUEL V. NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD. NCAI, the National remains very busy, monitoring Circuit relied on an extremely broad Indian Gaming Association and a large numerous cases at various stages of reading of last year’s decision in CITY group of tribes submitted an amicus appeal within both state and federal OF SHERRILL V. ONEIDA NATION to hold brief opposing the NLRB’s effort to courts, while directly participating that the doctrine of laches can be overturn thirty years of precedent and in the preparation of amicus briefs in used to bar tribal claims. The Project impose the National Labor Relations the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. has helped to develop a workgroup Act on tribal enterprises located on Circuit Courts of Appeals. comprised of tribal attorneys and law professors who will be developing reservation. Oral argument is expected The major Supreme Court decision strategies in order to rebut the laches in the fall. defense in pending and future cases. this year was WAGNON V. PRAIRIE These are just a few of the most BAND NATION. The Tribal Much of the primary work of the important cases that the Project Supreme Court Project worked closely Project is in opposing petitions for addressed this year. We would like with the attorneys representing the certiorari from tribal opponents. The to thank all of the tribal attorneys Prairie Band and throughout Indian Project’s work included SMITH V. for their generous assistance. We Country, coordinating four tribal SALISH KOOTENAI COLLEGE which encourage tribes to consult with the amicus briefs on behalf of NCAI, the sought review of a Ninth Circuit Project at any stage of litigation, and

9 • LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS the f legislative andexecutive branches of attention ontheactivities of the have effectively focused their before. For years, tribal governments vocal andmore visiblethanever Tribal governments are stronger, more judicial selection process. tribal participation inthefederal the federal judiciary, andincreasing trib about trib members of thefederal judiciary national effort aimedateducating unbiased perspective. The Project isa approach Indianissues from an and individualIndianswhowill unique legalstatus of Indiantribes who are knowledgeable aboutthe judiciary iscomposed of individuals Judiciary ensures thatthefederal The NCAI Project ontheFederal JUDICIARY NCAI PROJECT ONTHEFEDERAL the Supreme Court. particularly atthecertiorari stage in the judicialbr attention hasbeenpaid, however, to of federal judges whohave little orno hand theresults thattheappointment tribal attorneys have witnessed first- frequently made. Tribal leaders and decisions imp al go eder vernments abouttherole of al go al governments, educating acting Indiannationsar anch, wher v ernmen t . T e critical oo lit tle e r go The needto affirm Tribes’ TRIBAL-STATE RELATIONS INITIATIVES iden s a discussion ontheappropriate effort to integrate sales tax systems or regional levels. Whether anational occurred atboth thenationaland recognize Tribes’ distinct jurisdiction Opportunities for collaboration that governments. working relationships between thetwo tribes’ and states’ citizens by fostering are ableto improve thelives of both grow. As distinct governments, Tribes as stakeholders inpolicy development. inensuringIndianCountry’spart role NCAI continues to play animportant p educational materials to tribal leaders. bench; anddissemination of records of nominees to thefederal country; research andanalysis of the designed specifically for Indian judicial vacancy tracking system included: thedevelopment of afederal In 2006, Project activities have on tribal sovereignty. principles underlyingIndianlaw has knowledge of thefundamental legal elationship withs t arty to these collaborations. The andards for government issued vernment-to-government tif ic ation, Tribes were anecessary t ates continues to or in thegr would maintain aninstitutional role lawmakers, established thatNCAI made upof nearly fifty Native American Caucus' initialgatherings, theCaucus, State Legislators. During oneof the national C played aprimary role inconvening the During thepast year theProject tribes’ andstates’ citizens. imp in relationships andimprove the opportunities enhance thequality and tribal governments. These as policy staff working inboth state of akindtraining for leadership aswell Foundation andothers provides aone Legislatures, theW.K. Kellogg with theNationalConference of State states andtribes. Anongoinginitiative educational opportunities for both promote uniquepartnerships and material theNCAI continued to publications andinteractive advocacy Through theNCAI webpage, tergovernmental agreements that ganiz act s ation andat o man oup aucus of Native American ' s fut y aspects of life for ur e w LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS •10 ool f ork asapeer or adv oc ac y Sit. ting Bull HIGHLIGHTS OF THE “ The inability of border tribes to stem “ The solution is straightforward: let’s 2006 STATE OF INDIAN NATIONS the flow of illegal aliens passing settle Cobell fairly and quickly, and ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT JOE GARCIA through their communities is a then let’s move ahead. We want profound problem. Some aliens may Congress to deal with this in good “ Strength, triumph over adversity, the want no more than entry into our faith and then allow us all to put it will to succeed—the Indian Nations country, but there are others who behind us. Whatever the settlement stand strong today. We are cross to engage in drug trafficking turns out to be, the ongoing years growing more self-sufficient, more and other crimes. The results for our of delay will cost millions in lost economically developed, more communities are increased murder opportunity. Let’s move on.” politically active; and as always, rates, higher rates of theft, more “ As Indians, our lives are defined by steadfastly committed to the rapes and beatings, and the fear our history and our rich cultures. We stewardship and defense of our home, among many of even going out. believe in elevating virtue to a way of the United States of America.” This is unacceptable. We want to life. We believe in family, tradition, implement a long-term solution to “ We face four areas of great challenge. and self-determination. Our tribes the problem that is more than simply And we must meet each of them in exist as nations with sovereign and stopping those we can catch and order to move our nation forward. independent governments. And we send back, and letting the rest get are keenly aware of the challenges Number 1: Public Safety; through … We want to do more, but we face in providing for our people.” we do not have the means.” Number 2: Healthcare; “ Because of inferior healthcare, the Number 3: Education and the quality and length of life for American Economy; and Indians falls well below the rest of Number 4: The Trust Settlement. the U.S. American Indians have a life expectancy five years less than the I call these The Four Great Steps— rest of the country. A typical American the agenda for the Indian Nations.” Indian is 650 percent more likely to die from tuberculosis, 420 percent more likely to die from diabetes, 280 percent more likely to die in an accident, and 52 percent more likely to die from pneumonia or influenza than the rest of the U.S. population.”

NCAI President Joe A. Garcia delivers the fourth annual State of Indian Nations Address February 2, 2006 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

11 • LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS TOP ROW (LEFT TO RIGHT): Former Senator Tom Daschle at NCAI’s (2) Education; and (3) Advocacy. Congressional Reception during the 2006 Executive Council Winter Session in Washington, D.C. To increase coordination, NCAI has NCAIS NATIONAL INDIAN COUNTRY Ruben Barrales, Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of the METH INITIATIVE created the national Tribal Meth Office of Intergovernmental Affairs & NCAI President Joe A. Garcia. Initiative Task Force of tribal and Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.) addresses NCAI delegates at the 2006 At the request of Tribal leaders, NCAI local leaders working on both Executive Council Winter Session. President Joe Garcia announced the law enforcement and health and Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) speaks with fellow Oklahoman and formation of NCAI’s Indian Country prevention in Indian Country. The NCAI Elections Chair Juanita Ahtone. Meth Initiative. President Joe Garcia Tribal Task Force has been working officially issued a “Call to Action” to closely with The White House to address Methamphetamines in Indian coordinate with the sister federal Country. He called for three immediate agency Indian Country Task Force. responses (1) a joint hearing of the To increase education and prevention, Senate Committee On Indian Affairs NCAI, Tribal leaders, and federal and the House Resources Committee, agencies are working together with of which we are very grateful to the the Partnership for a Drug Free Chairman for holding, (2) a call for America to create a national Indian tribal leaders to form reservation Country specific anti-meth television initiatives on methamphetamine and and radio campaign. NCAI continues drug enforcement and prevention, to advocate on the Indian Country which is starting to occur, and (3) a Meth Initiative. Almost daily, NCAI call for a White House initiative for continues to push Congress for President George W. Bush and interagency cooperation to address increased treatment and law NCAI Executive Director Jacqueline Johnson. methamphetamine and drug enforcement enforcement resources. and prevention in Indian Country. Tribal leaders are delighted to announce The National Indian Country Meth that all three of these “calls to action” Initiative is designed to listen to the either occurred or are now in process. struggles tribal leaders are facing in this fight against meth and help The Indian Country Meth Initiative bring them the necessary resources continues to grow and expand, and its they need to take care of their projects and goals roughly fall into communities. three categories: (1) Increasing Coordination and Communication;

NCAI Executive Committee at White House meeting.

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS • 12 GAMING behind such proposals. Through the to develop policies and programs that Task Force tribes have been able to promote financial literacy. Nearly twenty years ago, Congress’ promote important positions amid passage of the Indian Gaming these debates including the need to In April of this year, NCAI joined Regulatory Act established a role promote the importance of existing with the Native Financial Education for federal and state governments in tribal regulation and the need to Coalition to host a second annual the area of tribal gaming. Gaming improve tribal state relations by briefing for Congress on the has played an essential role in the addressing federal case law that limits importance of financial literacy in economic development of tribes and the formation of compact agreements Native communities. At that briefing, their neighbors by providing jobs between tribes and states. the Coalition followed up on the policy and the financial ability for tribes to recommendations for federal, state, meet their people’s most basic and Amid the numerous legislative and and tribal policy-makers that were historically unmet needs. Tribal regulatory proposals to change the made last year with more specific gaming is an important exercise federal role in regulation of tribal recommendations for action. of governmental authority and a gaming that were posed this year, NCAI has also worked to elevate the necessary economic development NCAI provided a forum for deliberation issue of financial literacy in the eyes tool for many tribes. in several parts of the country via the NCAI – National Indian Gaming of tribal leaders through workshops, During the last year the federal Association Joint Task Force.These broadcast communications, and regulatory structure for tribal gaming meetings allowed tribes to support publications. We know that financial has been the subject of Congressional one another's efforts to preserve literacy and asset-building strategies hearings both in Washington, D.C. and tribal sovereignty and respond with are much more successful when they across the country. In addition, federal a unified voice to federal proposals. have the support of tribal governments. courts have issued opinions describing NCAI is working to deliver the message FINANCIAL LITERACY the limits of federal regulation under that financial literacy is fundamental for financial stability and true self- existing law. NCAI recognizes the important role governance. It is our hope that when that financial literacy plays not only in The NCAI and National Indian Gaming tribal councils are approached about economic development, but in tribal Association’s (NIGA) Task Force on innovative financial literacy or asset- self-governance. Given the breadth Gaming has provided an important building strategies they understand of our membership, NCAI is uniquely tool for tribal leaders to discuss Indian the importance of these programs positioned to work with policy-makers Country’s positions on regulatory and and can be receptive and supportive. legislative proposals to change federal at both the federal and tribal levels regulation. The Task Force has also to increase awareness about the provided a medium for federal leaders importance of financial education and to discuss with tribes the motivations

13 • LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS legislation. PENSION PLANS issued or administrative fixes ontribally NC benefits for tribal revenue collection. governments thatcould have key a nationwide effort by state its commitment onseveral fronts values, andjustice. NCAI continued symbolizing deeperdebates onmorality, the nation’s priorities asawhole, The federal budget process reflects FEDERAL BUDGETANDAPPROPRIATIONS STREAMLINED SALES TAX PROJECT the opportunity to participate inthe our pushto ensure thattribes have priority for NCAI. This year we continued Tax issues are always animportant TAXATION progress andsetbacks on development efforts. We have seen has hamstrung tribal economic a rash of unjustifiable IRS decisions t b became law underpressure from airline plans inequit bill of its own thattreats tribal pension bill, buttheHouse passed alast minute provisions in a comprehensive pension approved thetribal pensionplans o changethela ankruptcies, andwe are now working AI continues to work for legislative TAX EXEMPT BONDS ably w inc , astheSenate . T he Hous orrections , where TRIBAL e bill , thr and monit President’s FY2007 budget request, testimony ontribal fundinginthe meetings, contributed Congressional formulation andconsultation FY 2008 BIAand DHHSbudget Advisory Council, participated in assistance to theBIA/Tribal Budget process, NCAI provided technical thr needs responsibility. To ensure tribes’ goals, the w C budgets to thedance of thedollars in formulation andjustification of reflect tribal perspectives, from the process historically hasfailed to Indian Country. The federal budget determination andself-sufficiency in to tribes, key to thegoals of self- to advocate for adequate funding protect Indian self-determination and warrant increased tribal advocacy to nat over-seas, tax cuts, andtheeffects of such astheongoingmilitary campaigns Severe strains onfederal resources, A the Departmental level andwiththe in thefederal budget process, both at significantly improved tribal engagement pr ongressional appropriations, despite dministration andCongress. oc oughout theFY2 oughout thefederal budget ur e al disasters onU.S. infrastructure s ell-established U.S. trust , andpriorities are voiced s . NC or AI andtrib ed alltrib 00 al pr 7 appr al le ograms aders have opriations annual dis Indian Country request package to culminated inanall-encompassing needs. Onecomponent of thestrategy documentation for tribal budget creating strong, data-based supporting and instituting mechanismsfor which to seek meaningful increases; annually across alltribal programs for prioritie unif consisting of delivering aconsistent, t is organizations to address budget of tribal leaders, nationalandregional NCAI facilitates anationaltaskforce current austere fiscal environment, funding of tribes andthenation’s proactive response to chronic under- to implement acomprehensive and the trust relationship. Inaneffort addr Public S f and theAdministration, whichcalled 2007 Budget Request to Congress distributed thisIndianCountry FY De He or strategic federal investment in askforce coordinated astrategy sues collectively. NCAI’s budget v althc tribut elopmen ied message ontribal budget e s s S ar . InF s; determining 3–4focus areas af e inc T A e, andNatural Resources e TE OFINDIANNA ty andJustice, Education, t ebruary 2 . onjunction withNC LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS •14 006, NC TIONS AI ChieAI’s f Joseph Moha C Summit was hosted by theMohawk compliance andtimetables. The U.S. representatives discussed tribal trib 15 •LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS the Unit and longs also view thelaws asviolatingtreaties boundaries were created. Tribal officials lands were in place before international view thisasanaffront because tribal international boundaries. Tribal leaders for any individualto travel across passport andother documentation a Hemisphere Travel Initiative willrequire initiatives andpolicies. The Western in on thetribal community impacts of and Fir pr Border Security Summit. The Summit the International IndigenousCross Assembly of First Nations of Canada, In March, NCAI co-sponsored withthe BORDER SECURITY SUMMIT INTERNATIONAL INDIGENOUSCROSS HOMELAND SECURITY INITIATIVES EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ANDTRIBAL ouncil of Akwesasne andtheSt. Regis ternational border management ovided aforum for indigenoustribal al o wk T st Nationsofficials to comment f f ed S icials ribe t anding agr t . at , man e s . Inadditionto y C eemen anadian and ts with impacted tribal communities. pr and private relief organizations that NCAI staff assisted indirecting federal addition to monetary donations, coordinating therelief effort. In t and thank trib f as of Creek Indiansdeclinedthe offer of Band of Choctaw andthePoarch Band members andothers, theMississippi resources for helping community effort butstating they hadadequate While expressing gratitude for NCAI’s over $200,000 from therelief fund. identified 15tribes asrecipients of from thehurricane impact zone, NCAI and communication withtribal officials trib ranged from individual donationsto generous outpouringof contributions fund for tribal communities. The contributions to ahurricane relief Rita, theNCAI sent outarequest for last year’s Hurricanes Katrina and Coast andsurrounding areas from Following thedevastation to theGulf TO TRIBAL COMMUNITIES COUNTRY DISASTER ASSISTANCE NCAI COORDINATES INDIAN eder o thefund,andt o sistance. While there was avoid in vided food, water, andclothing to al le al donations. Following asite visit al ands ader s t s e o allwhoc tate recovery assistance, xpr e o theNC ssed appreciation on tributed AI f or Katrina andRita. C of thepress inWashington, D.C. regarding Indian Dardar Robichaux, of Louisiana addresses members Principal Chief of theUnited HoumaNation,Brenda ountr y r ecovery efforts inthe wake of hurricanes Powhatan NATIVE VOTE VOTING RIGHTS ACT elections, the protections of the Voting Rights Act will continue to The Native Vote Program has In 2006, as Congress was considering be critically important to ensuring continued to work to ensure a Native the legislation that reauthorized that all individuals have full and voice at the polls and an influence on the Voting Rights Act (VRA) for an meaningful access to participation policy that will impact our political additional 25 years, NCAI worked in our democracy. power. This year we concentrated our closely with the Native American Native Vote efforts on maintaining the Rights Fund and a coalition of civil CAMPAIGN FINANCE strong infrastructure we created in rights groups on a large campaign to The success of the Native Vote 2004 and planning for the 2006 mid- educate the public, and in particular initiative is evidence of the recognition year elections. At the grassroots level, Native communities, about the among Indian tribes that the best with the hard work of volunteers importance of the VRA for Indian way to protect our rights is through and coordinators, NCAI’s non-partisan Country. As a part of this effort, NCAI participation in the political system. Native Vote campaign conducted provided testimony before Congress Tribal members have become more trainings throughout Indian country, on the impact of the VRA for Native politically active in recent years and built upon the strong network of voters during the debate on the one of the important ways that tribes organizers at the state and tribal reauthorization of the Act. participate is by supporting the levels by convening meetings at candidates of their choice in federal the NCAI conferences and regular Vigorous enforcement of the VRA, elections. In addition to encouraging conference calls. We have also which prohibits discrimination in tribal members to turn out to vote, maintained the presence of the voting on the basis of race or minority one way tribes can choose to election protection program which will language status, is an important demonstrate this support is through ensure the Indian vote is protected by component of NCAI’s efforts through campaign contributions. preventing voter discrimination during the Native Vote project to maximize the 2006 Election. The Native Vote the power of Native voices at the polls. Despite the Supreme Court’s long- Program has inspired tribal members Native Americans have experienced a standing recognition that the First to become politically active and long history of disenfranchisement Amendment protects the fundamental participate civically, even during the and too many Native people continue right to political association in the past off-election year. to struggle to fully exercise their form of campaign contributions, right to vote today. But as the success the right of Indian tribes to make of NCAI’s Native Vote campaign contributions came under attack in demonstrates, Native people are 2006. The attacks were spear-headed exercising their right to vote in ever- by anti-Indian interests who hoped to increasing numbers. With more and capitalize on the publicity surrounding more Native people participating in the illegal actions of a corrupt lobbyist

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS • 16 who defrauded his tribal clients to the census. Through this position, states, the declaration addresses push through legislation that would NCAI recommends ways the Census issues critical to Indigenous Peoples marginalize the Native voice in the Bureau can most effectively reach included the protections provided political process. Indian Country. to cultural property; and states recognition of tribal government’s NCAI responded swiftly to these PARTNERING WITH THE CENSUS right to self-determination and to attacks and vocally defended the right BUREAU: NCAI includes technical lands, territories an natural resources. of Indian tribes to participate on an training in breakout sessions during equal footing in the political process. the Mid Year and Annual Sessions to Amid these historic developments in the NCAI offered testimony before Congress aid tribal leaders in improving decision- United Nations arena, tribes continue to on this topic, worked to correct the making and policy development in tribal participate in other international arenas onslaught of misinformation appearing communities with Census data. including the Organization of American in the media, and brought Indian States and the development of country together to coordinate a Indigenous-to-Indigenous agreements response to the attacks. NCAI, with U.S. Census Map showing among American Indian, Alaska Native the help of our allies in Congress, Indian Country in red. and Native Hawaiian leadership as well successfully defended the right of as Indigenous People’s leadership Indian tribes as governments to have across the globe. our voices heard. INTERNATIONAL INDIGENOUS NCAI's continued participation in LAW AND POLICY CENSUS United Nation deliberations that took place both in New York and Geneva, U.S. Census data forms the basis for Tribes’ involvement in the international Switzerland served an important role countless critical decisions and the arena promotes tribes’ exercise of in ensuring that international law did allocation of resources everyday sovereignty, enhances federal domestic not limit those protections that tribes throughout Indian Country and law’s treatment of tribal governments, retain Tribes in the United States and America. NCAI monitors issues arising and is an essential part of the helped to serve as the ground work from the Census on several fronts. development of international law that applies to Indigenous governments. for enhancing domestic policy. NCAI 2010 CENSUS ADVISORY COMMITTEE: was also an honored participant in the NCAI was appointed by the Secretary During this last year, the United second ever gathering of Indigenous of Commerce to serve on the 2010 Nations has taken a critical step Peoples from throughout the Western Census Advisory Committee, which toward that organization’s adoption Hemisphere. This gathering took reports to the Director of the Census of a declaration on the rights of place in Buenos Aires, Argentina Bureau, to provide advice on policy, Indigenous Peoples. Following two and was an historic event that research, and technical issues related decades of working group sessions resulted in an declaration by and for to the design and implementation of with Indigenous Peoples and nations Indigenous Peoples.

17 • LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS NATURAL RESOURCES Policy Act to allow the Secretary NCAI in collaboration with CERT of Interior to approve energy has submitted comments to the After the implementation of the right-of-way on tribal lands without draft report. NCAI continues monitor Energy Policy Act of 2005, NCAI tribal consent. this issue. remains to work diligently with Council Tribal leaders and NCAI advocated Tribal leaders meet at on the Energy Resource Tribes NCAI headquarters in (CERT), Indian tribes, advocates and strongly against that proposal, and it Washington, D.C. to Congressional staff to address the was not included. However, industry prepare for Capitol Hill was successful in including a provision meetings on Indian concerns over provisions in the bill Rights-of-Way. impacting tribes. to conduct a study on rights-of-way on k tribal land. At the NCAI Annual Meeting Of particular concern to tribes, in Tulsa, NCAI passed a resolution Section 1813 of the Energy Policy Act strongly opposing this study.

on Indian Energy Rights-of-Way directs ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION w the Departments of Interior and In June 2006, NCAI and CERT Energy to conduct a study and draft scheduled a two weeks of NCAI entered into a cooperative a report to Congress on three areas: Congressional visits for Indian tribes agreement with the Environmentala 1) analysis of historical rates of to meet with their congressional Protection Agency’s Environmental compensation; 2) recommendations delegation and key congressional Information Exchange Network h for appropriate standards to determine committees to brief members and Program on a project designed to fair and appropriate compensation; staffers on Section 1813. In August assist tribes in developing internal 3) assessment of tribal self-determination 2006, the Departments released the accurate environmental data to draft report of the Section 1813. The and sovereignty interests implicated improve decision making. The projectk by application for rights-of-way on findings of the report refuted many has the potential to help tribes share of the energy industry’s claims such tribal land; 4) and an analysis of environmental, health, geographicc and relevant national energy transportation as that tribes would interfere with other types of data with other tribes policies. national energy transportation and or states and territories for multi- cost would not be passed down to purpose uses. NCAI convened a a Under current law, the Secretary consumers. In September 2006, NCAI meeting to promulgate informationl to cannot approve and grant right-of- and CERT will scheduled a second tribes about the EPA Environmental ways on tribal land without consent of series of Congressional visits for Indian Exchange Network during April in Ft. tribal officials. In early 2005, the New tribes to meet with Congress to discuss Lauderdale, Florida. Mexico Oil & Gas Association and the findings made in the draft report. other energy companies began circulating a proposal to Congress to amend these statutes in the Energy B

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS • 18 EDUCATION At the 2005 Annual Convention and NCAI TASK FORCE ON VIOLENCE the 2006 Mid-Year Conference, NCAI AGAINST INDIAN WOMEN The youth of our communities are the held various workshops on and hosted future of our nations. In recognizing many guests to speak about Indian In response to the tragic rates of this, NCAI continues to make the education. The 2005 Annual provided violence against Native women in education of American Indian and our membership with an opportunity many Native communities, NCAI Alaskan Native one of its priorities. to hear from the Secretary of the established a Task Force on Violence NCAI maintains many partnerships Department of Education, Margaret Against Indian Women. The Task Force with education-related organizations Spellings. Secretary Spellings has established a nationwide network at the national level to ensure that emphasized the importance of of domestic violence and sexual Native children are not left behind. educating Native youth and committed assault activists and tribal leaders who NCAI keeps close relations with the to supporting the advancement of are committed to raising awareness National Indian Education Association Native education. At the 2006 Mid- about the dire situation facing many (NIEA). The partnership serves to Year Conference, NCAI held a session Native women. The NCAI Task Force further develop the educational that examined intergenerational has worked hard to educate tribal, opportunities available to Native teaching. The workshop identified state, and federal policy-makers about children. This year’s most prominent tribal communities that integrate the unique nature of violence against collaboration with NIEA was an effort teaching from elders into their youth Native women. In 2006, the Task Force to protect Native languages, including curriculum. continued to work closely with a an effort to advance language programs diverse coalition of groups to in schools. NCAI also works with the NCAI continues to work closely with strengthen the Violence Against Tribal Education Departments National the Administration, both with the Women Act (VAWA), which was Assembly (TEDNA) by hosting national Department of Education and with the reauthorized early in 2006. Because forums at our three annual meetings. newly established Department of of the Task Force’s education efforts, These forums are an opportunity to Indian Education within the Department the VAWA reauthorization legislation promote tribal education departments of Interior, to help Native children included for the first time a Tribal Title nationwide, but also serve as a vehicle meet the academic standards put in that will enhance the ability of Indian for developing relationships between place by the No Child Left Behind Act. tribes to protect their citizens. the departments and NCAI. NCAI staff attends conferences and meetings of both organizations in order to maintain the close working relationship between both NIEA and TEDNA. 19 • LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS Pontiac HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES pandemic influenza planning strategy families and communities at large in which showcased some tribal responses an effort to promote healthy lifestyles Maintaining healthy communities is a to a pandemic influenza breakout. community-wide. priority for Indian Country and for NCAI. NCAI remains active in promoting NCAI continues to be extremely active the improvement of health and the with the Department of Health and quality of service for Indian people. Human Services (HHS) by helping to NCAI collaborates with national and facilitate and participating in the regional health organizations, as well annual tribal budget consultations. as with the Administration to ensure This year HHS implemented a new and that the health of Indian Country is a improved strategy for holding these prominent national focus. NCAI has sessions by adding a preliminary partnered with the National Indian consultation session to prepare for Health Board (NIHB) along with the large department-wide session. In a coalition of tribes, lawyers and March, NCAI helped facilitate the First lobbyists to advocate for the passage Annual Divisional Budget Consultation of the Indian Health Care Improvement and Formulation Session. This was Act which serves to modernize the followed by the larger 8th Annual healthcare delivery system throughout Department Wide Budget Consultation Indian Country. Session held in May that was attended by many HHS agency leaders. NCAI’s Annual Convention and Mid- NCAI also administers a diabetes Year Conferences serve as venues to prevention program in partnership promote healthy lifestyles. Our 2005 with IHS, the Boys and Girls Club of One of many youth who participated in NCAI’s Annual Health Annual included the third annual and Fitness Walk at the 62nd Annual Convention in Tulsa. America, and Nike, Inc. The program health walk and run in partnership aims to reduce the onset of diabetes with Nike and the Indian Health among Native youth by weaving Service (IHS). The walk provided a together the importance of teamwork, platform to promote healthy lifestyles self-esteem and community service. and was headlined by Bill Mills, a The curriculum incorporates traditional member of the Oglala Sioux and an traditions and history to learn about Olympic Gold Medalist. At the 2006 Diabetes and heath screenings were nutrition, food choices and the impact a part of NCAI’s Annual meeting. Mid-Year Conference, representatives of diabetes. Additionally, the program from the Indian Health Service encourages the participation of provided a workshop on the national

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS • 20 CHILD WELFARE CULTURAL CONCERNS

INDIAN CHILD PROTECTION AND FAMILY REAUTHORIZATION OF THE PROMOTING Cultural considerations are always a VIOLENCE PREVENTION ACT OF 2006 SAFE AND STABLE FAMILIES ACT top propriety for tribes and NCAI. Through, S.536, the Native American This year, NCAI worked diligently on As part of NCAI’s meth initiative, Omnibus Act of 2005 technical the bill to amend the Indian Child the organization advocated for the corrections were made to several laws Protection and Family Violence Improving Outcomes for Children relating to tribes. Section 111 amends Prevention Act of 2006 (S. 1899), Affected by Meth Act of 2006, which the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 which provides for a five-year reauthorizes the Promoting Safe and to authorize other federal investigative reauthorization of child abuse Stable Families (PSSF) programs bodies, in addition to the Federal prevention and treatment programs to increase the well-being of, Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to and conforms the Act to other federal and improve the permanency investigate offenses involving the sale child abuse reporting and confidentiality outcomes for, children affected of Indians arts and crafts misrepresented laws. S.1899 helps Congress to identify by methamphetamine abuse and as an Indian product. It also provides the scope of child abuse and family addiction. It also addresses the for recovery in a civil action and violence in Indian Country and mentoring children of prisoners payment of damages to the Indian encourages inter-agency coordination program. The bill increases the tribe, the Indian, or the Indian arts between the Indian Health Service and amount reserved under the PSSF and crafts organization on behalf of public and private medical or treatment program for allotments to Indian which the civil action was initiated. organizations in the treatment and tribes and authorizes tribal consortia examination of children through the to receive such allotments. use of telemedicine; and reauthorizes the Indian child sexual abuse treatment DISABILITY and the Indian child protection and family violence prevention grant Native people with disabilities face an programs. uphill battle when it comes to funding to assist with overcoming their challenges. This year, NCAI advocated for the Promoting Wellness for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2006. The bill establishes accessibility standards for medical diagnostic equipment and creates wellness grants to fund health programs that focus on the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

21 • CHILD WELFARE • CULTURAL CONCERNS • DISABILITY Medic care matters associated withthe Services (CMS) on importanthealth the C serves asanadvisory committeeto Advisory Group (TTAG). The TTAG NCAI isamemberof The Tribal Technical MEDICAID NAGPRA the O Senate Committee onAging on NCAI submitted comments to the Older Americans Act (OAA). votes was thereauthorization of the at theWHCOA receiving themost 11-14, 2005. The numberoneresolution Conference onAging from December process attended theWhite House Committee through theat-large Indians andtheWHCOA Policy the NationalCongress of American Member the United States appointed by Twelve hundred delegates from across Council onAging (NICOA). articulated by theNationalIndian the reauthorization principles Alaska Native Elders. NCAI supports services to American Indianand about improved comprehensive One of thetenets of NCAI isto bring ISSUES ELDER enter for Medicaid andMedicare AA. are, Medicaid, andState s of Congress, state Governors, as soon asCMSformulates aresponse. recommendations tribes andwill alert monit pr r c NCAI also provided oral andwritten R or r o proof of U.S. citizenship for purposes enrollment documents beaccepted as NCAI recommended thatIndiantribal not possess atraditional certificate. birth traditional settings and,therefore, do tribal members whoare not bornin provision willhave anuntold effect on they are United States citizens. This or other documents to prove that produce certificates, birth passports Indian Health Service, willhave to r approximately 40%of Indianswho all Medicaid recipients, whichinclude Medicaid services. Asof July1,2006, provisions regarding eligibility for NCAI alerted tribes aboutnew regarding tribal Medicaid beneficiaries. to CMSandto theMedicaid Commission The TTAG madeformal recommendations Children Health Insurance Programs. egar equir eceive theirhealthcare through the omments to theMedicaid Commission f complying withthecitizenship eduction A ogr der ding r ed inS am asawhole oring thepr emen eforms to theMedicaid t for Medicaid eligibility ct ec. 60 . ogr 3 6 o . NC ess of these of ess f theDeficit AI isclo sely how old,could bereturned to tribes. ensur the Unit culture thatisorwas indigenousto t pr Protection andRepatriation Act to amends theNative American Graves laws relating to tribes. Section 108 makes technical corrections to several American OmnibusAct of 2005, which remains through S.536, theNative for theprotection of ancient Indian This year, NCAI also strongly advocated clas Indian andAlask NC S classroom events throughout theyear. in community gatheringsand and local events. NCAI also participates by speaking atinternational, national regularly engageinpubliceducations NCAI board members andstaff PUBLIC EDUCATION ANDOUTREACH polic o amemberof atribe, apeople, ora tudent groups frequently visitthe ovide that"Native American" refers AI o s y is e e thatancient remains, nomatter s onhis f fice inWashington, D.C. for ed States. This measure would sue ELDER ISSUES •MEDICAID• NAGPRA •22 s r t egar ory andc a Nativ ding Americ e ontemporary s . Oscean ola NCAI STAFF

JACQUELINE L. JOHNSON BERNIDA HUMETEWA Executive Director Membership & Exhibition Management Director NKETIA AGYEMAN Office Manager SHARON IVY-WEISS Finance Director JANICE CALDWELL Accountant ADAM MCMULLIN Communications Director DANIEL CORDALIS Legislative Associate JENNIFER RACKLIFF Legislative Associate VIRGINIA DAVIS Associate Counsel GWEN SALT Legislative Associate JOHN DOSSETT General Counsel SEQUOYAH SIMERMEYER Legislative Associate AMBER EBARB Legislative Associate HEATHER DAWN THOMPSON Governmental Affairs Director CHRISTY FINSEL Policy Research Center MELLOR WILLIE Research Associate Development Director

IRENE FOLSTROM Native Vote Program Director

JAMIE GOMEZ Conferences and Events Director

SARAH HICKS Policy Research Center Director

ROBERT HOLDEN Emergency Management & Radioactive Waste Programs Director

CINDA HUGHES Legislative Associate

23 • NCAI STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT NORTHEAST Joe A. Garcia Randy Noka Ohkay Owingeh Narragansett (Pueblo of San Juan) NORTHWEST FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT Ernie Stensgar Jefferson Keel Coeur d’Alene Tribe Chickasaw Nation PACIFIC Cheryl Seidner RECORDING SECRETARY Wiyot Juana Majel-Dixon Pauma-Yuima Band of ROCKY MOUNTAIN Mission Indians Raymond Parker Chippewa-Cree TREASURER Business Committee W. Ron Allen Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe SOUTHEAST Leon Jacobs REGIONAL VICE-PRESIDENTS Lumbee Tribe

ALASKA SOUTHERN PLAINS Mike Williams Steve Johnson Yupiaq Absentee Shawnee

EASTERN OKLAHOMA SOUTHWEST Joe Grayson, Jr. Manuel Heart Ute Mountain Ute Tribe

GREAT PLAINS WESTERN Mark Allen Kathleen Kitcheyan Flandreau Santee Sioux San Carlos

MIDWEST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Robert Chicks Jacqueline Johnson Stockbridge-Munsee Tlingit

SECTION NAME • 1 NATIONAL CONGRESS OF AMERICAN INDIANS 1301 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW, SUITE 200 WASHINGTON, DC 20036 202–466–7767 202–466–7797 FAX WWW.NCAI.ORG