U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, has praised President Biden's new Executive Order on Reforming Federal Funding and Support for Tribal Nations. The order aims to "better embrace our trust responsibilities and promote the next era of Tribal self-determination."
In a statement, Senator Schatz highlighted the importance of federal policies that support the sovereignty and self-determination of Tribal nations. He emphasized that with the recent significant investments in Native-serving programs, it is crucial for the United States to meet its obligations and ensure that funding is not only available but also accessible to Tribal Nations.
"The President's Executive Order ushering in the next era of Tribal self-determination will help do just that by answering the call of Tribal leaders to ensure federal resources are as flexible as possible to address their communities' specific needs," said Chairman Schatz.
The Executive Order is seen as a step forward in advancing the self-determination of Tribal Nations. It recognizes the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities and aims to provide them with the necessary flexibility to address those needs effectively.
The full text of the Executive Order can be accessed online.
This Executive Order demonstrates the commitment of the Biden administration to supporting and empowering Tribal Nations. It builds upon the existing federal policies and investments made to improve the lives of Native communities.
The order aligns with the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which have secured the largest investment in Native-serving programs in U.S. history. By ensuring that federal resources are as flexible as possible, the order aims to address the specific needs of Tribal communities and promote their self-determination.
The recognition of Tribal sovereignty and self-determination has been a longstanding principle in federal policies. This Executive Order reaffirms the United States' commitment to upholding these principles and working towards a stronger partnership with Tribal Nations.
The response from Senator Schatz and other Tribal leaders has been positive, with acknowledgment of the importance of this Executive Order in supporting the unique needs of Tribal communities.
The Executive Order on Reforming Federal Funding and Support for Tribal Nations marks a significant step towards advancing self-determination for Tribal Nations. It demonstrates the Biden administration's commitment to working with Tribal leaders and addressing the specific needs of these communities. With this new order, federal resources will be more accessible and flexible, allowing Tribal Nations to better serve their communities and exercise their sovereignty.
Click this link to access more information: https://www.indian.senate.gov/newsroom/press-release/democratic/schatz-new-executive-order-advances-self-determination-for-tribal-nations/
