December 19, 2024
Washington, D.C. – December 11, 2024 – On December 10th, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden hosted the fourth and final Biden-Harris administration’s White House Tribal Nations Summit. In conjunction with the Summit, the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) proudly hosted a successful Tribal Leaders Meeting in collaboration with the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). Held at the IGA’s headquarters, the meeting brought together esteemed tribal leaders to reflect on the progress made in Indian Country over the past four years and discuss strategic priorities for the incoming Trump administration.
Chairman Stevens opened the tribal leaders’ meeting by stating, “In today’s critical political landscape, it is essential that we unite our leadership and stand resolute in our commitment to the issues impacting all of Indian Country. We must focus our efforts on this initiative under the guidance of our tribal leaders, who are essential in advancing this work. Your leadership will enable us to continue educating both parties about our commitment to preserving tribal sovereignty. Presenting a unified front on Capitol Hill and engaging diplomatically and assertively to advocate for our shared interests is essential.
Stevens added, “As we embark on this journey, we recognize the magnitude of the work ahead of us. This endeavor goes beyond protecting tribal sovereignty; it encompasses the future and well-being of our tribal communities and federal tribal programs. Our collaboration is not just necessary, but it is our greatest strength in addressing the challenges before us.”
The meeting also featured insightful presentations and discussions from prominent leaders and advocates, including President Mark Macarro of the National Congress of American Indians. It also included an Indian Country Year-end Report panel discussion with IGA Executive Director Jason Giles, Larry Wright, Jr., Executive Director of NCAI, and Chris James, President & CEO of the National Center for American Indian Economic Development.
A panel discussion on the Lame Duck Priorities for Indian Country in the 118th Congress was presented by Deborah Parker, CEO of the Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, and Quinton Carroll, Executive Director of the Native American Contractors Association (NACA). Tribal Organizations vowed to work right up to the end of Christmas on passing critical legislation for Indian Country.
Representatives of the NDN Collective reported to the tribal leaders. Presenters included Nick Tilsen, President and CEO, and Holly Cook Macarro, Principal at the Angle. Acknowledging that many of our legislative priorities are difficult to pass during a lame-duck session, there is renewed optimism that within the first six months of the Trump Administration there will be several opportunities for Congress to address Tribal tax priorities and strengthening programs at IHS and DOJ.
Bryan Newland, Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, and Bryan Mercier, Director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, provided a 2024 report on the Bureau of Indian Affairs. While many senior officials will be stepping down soon, they are optimistic that the strong work accomplished on behalf of Indian Country will transfer over well to the incoming Trump Administration and his selection for Interior Secretary, Governor Doug Burghum of North Dakota.
Representatives from the U.S. Congress also addressed the tribal leaders, including U.S. Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS), Jared Huffman(D-CA), Harriet Hageman(R-WY), and Mary Peltola(D-AK), and the meeting concluded with a look at the 119th Congressional Outlook led by the National Indian Education Association.
The discussions inspired a renewed commitment among tribal leaders to enhance economic development, healthcare, education, and cultural preservation across Indian Country, ensuring that these priorities remain at the forefront as the new administration takes office.
“We will continue to stay focused on the Indian Country agenda at hand as we move forward to engaging with the new administration to address the ongoing challenges and opportunities ahead,” added Stevens, Jr. “Together, we will continue to forge a path of progress and empowerment for our communities.”
The Indian Gaming Association remains dedicated to advocating for Indian Country and supporting the advancement of legislative measures that enhance sovereignty and economic growth.