Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democrats met with Tribal Leaders from across the United States. The discussion focused on economic development in Indian Country and building tribal economies. Participants identified ways the federal government can give tribes the tools they need, or in some instances move out of the way, so that tribes can determine their own future and ensure economic opportunities for generations of American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians.

“With Alaska Natives comprising 19 percent of the entire Alaska population, ensuring their economic success is vital to all Alaskans,” said Senator Mark Begich (D-AK), Chairman of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee. “That is why I have pushed the federal government to ensure that Alaska Natives receive their fair share, including $193 million in IHS contract support cost settlement payments and a recent change in federal regulations that will allow the Department of the Interior to take land into trust for Alaska Native tribes. I strongly believe that Alaska Natives, American Indians, and Native Hawaiians must have a strong voice in shaping the policies that affect their communities.”

“I was delighted to meet with Benny Tso today to discuss issues of vital importance to Nevada’s tribes. Nevada’s economy and the individual Tribes’ economies are interdependent. Tourism is our state’s number one industry and tribes like the Las Vegas Paiutes play an important and growing part in Nevada’s tourism and economy,” said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV). “Nevada’s Great Basin has always been the home of the Washoe, Paiute and Western Shoshone Peoples. Their traditions, languages and stories are part of a rich cultural fabric that Nevada shares with America and the World. We must ensure that tribes have the tools they need to continue to create jobs and develop and strengthen their communities and their economies.”

“Job creation and education in Indian country are critical to the success of Indian communities,” Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs said.  “In order for tribes to create new economic opportunities and provide jobs, Indian Country needs adequate infrastructure such as housing, sanitation, telecommunications and roads to attract businesses and workers.  An educated workforce also plays a key role in ensuring a more promising future for the tribes.”

Increasing economic opportunities for Native Americans and upholding the government-to-government relationships with tribes remain priorities for Senate Democrats as important parts of fulfilling the United States’ trust responsibilities to Tribal nations.

Photos from this event can be found HERE

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