Tribal sovereignty 2024 Impact Report through examination, exploration and elevation
In January 2024, the American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) underwent a significant transition: we relocated our academic unit from the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions to the esteemed Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law. This move makes sense. AIPI is a policy institute, and Tribal Nations, as part of the family of governments in the U.S., operate within a legal framework defined by treaties and the law. This move positions AIPI with more substantial assets and allies, enhancing our ability to advocate for Tribal Nations. You can read about this here. As you can see from this report, the relocation of AIPI into the Law School has served us well and elevated our work. We look forward to growing our relationships within the Law school community, especially with the Indian Legal Program. By June 2024, AIPI launched the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty in partnership with the National Congress of American Indians. This new center aims to empower tribes with information, ensuring that Tribal Nations in the U.S. have the necessary tools and resources to navigate the complexities of digital governance and assert sovereignty over their digital assets. Read the press release. 2024 marked a pivotal moment for tribal policy, as we observed a remarkable surge in federal government engagement with Tribal Nations. This increased emphasis reflects a substantial shift in national priorities regarding Indigenous communities over the past three years. This growth is evidenced by the number of bills monitored by AIPI, which skyrocketed from 114 in 2022 to 225 in 2023, culminating in an astonishing 521 bills tracked in 2024. This dramatic escalation underscores a renewed commitment to addressing issues pertinent to Tribal Nations. A Message From Dr. Morris:
Additionally, the volume of Federal Register notices experienced a similar upward trajectory, moving from 89 in 2022 to 582 in 2023 and reaching a historic high of 1,259 in 2024. This significant growth in federal notices highlights the increasing dialogue regarding Tribal issues and underscores the rising influence of Tribal Nations in shaping policy conversations at the federal level. You can read more about the remarkable policy changes later in this impact report. AIPI furthered its commitment to education and policy research, and we welcomed our first Educational Policy and Research Analyst through a partnership with the American Indian Studies Center for Indian Education. This strategic hire is already bolstering our research capabilities and enhancing our focus on educational policies that affect Indigenous students and Tribal communities. The Indigenous Leadership Academy rounded out its full second year of operation in 2024 and has experienced significant growth and engagement in its programming. By December, we had successfully completed our sixth training cohort, with 132 matriculated emerging leaders. This increase reflects our commitment to empowering individuals from Indigenous communities, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles and make impactful changes within their communities. Each training cohort is designed to foster personal and professional development through hands-on training, mentorship opportunities, and community-based projects that build strong foundations for tribal communities. Also, in 2024, AIPI expanded its leadership and strategic insight by adding four new members to its advisory board: Sherry Treppa, Dallin Maybee, Angela Gonzales, and Denise E. Bates. These accomplished individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that will strengthen our initiatives and broaden our impact on the legal and policy landscape for tribal nations. You can learn more here. T. Morris Dr. Traci Morris Executive Director
521 Total bills reviewed 1,259 Federal notices 10 Bills signed into law 36 Total Congressional Hearings 33 Bills Passed In One Chamber 9 Resolutions Tracking Summary 2024 Summary The American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) tracks proposed legislation, bills in Congress, and other actions by the Federal Government through the Quarterly Legislative Update to inform our readers of important actions affecting Indian Country. These bills include new and proposed changes to laws, regulations, and significant appropriations to programs impacting Tribal Nations. Some bills may focus entirely on Tribal Nations, while others are more tangential and only include Tribal Nations among its stakeholders. AIPI also keeps count of bills affecting specific Tribal Nations. Out of the bills tracked, AIPI selects a handful of bills with a significant and/or widespread national impact on Tribal Nations to summarize in our quarterly Legislative Update. In 2024, during the second session of the 118th Congress, AIPI monitored 521 bills and 1,259 Federal Register notices. Of these, ten bills were signed into law, thirty-three passed one chamber, and nine resolutions were agreed to in their respective chambers. This legislative report provides a comprehensive summary of all the bills tracked by AIPI from January to December 2024. The report highlights ten enacted laws addressing critical issues such as child welfare, public safety, land stewardship, and veterans' healthcare, including significant measures like the Native American Child Protection Act and land transfer acts that reaffirm Tribal sovereignty. See real-time updates on our new LIVE DASHBOARD at aipi.asu.edu/solutions Policy Recap | 2024
2022 2023 2024 Total Bills 114 225 521 Congressional Hearings 33 41 36 Federal Register Notices 89 582 1,259 Education (20) Appropriation (19) Healthcare (19) Children & Families (17) Housing (14) Labor (14) Agriculture (13) Land (13) 2023 Tribe-specific (54) Grants (40) Environment (35) Government (31) Land (23) 2024 Healthcare (15) Environment (14) Public Safety (10) Economy (9) Broadband (6) 2022 Bill Categories Tribal Nations Take a Seat at the Policy Table, as Demonstrated by the Exponential Increase in Federal Government Activity Year Over Year. In 2024, AIPI tracked a remarkable increase in federal government activity related to tribal nations, reflecting a significant shift in national attention and support for Indigenous communities over the past three years, with the total number of bills tracked annually increasing by over 350% from 2022 to 2024. This stark rise in federal notices clearly indicates the growing conversation about, for, and with tribal nations, highlighting their increasing presence and influence in policy discussions. The sharp increase in federal notices, tied to the broader context of President Biden’s record-breaking Federal Register activity (as noted in Clyde Wayne Crews Jr.'s recent report), underscores the embedding of tribal nations within critical policy frameworks. This shift represents a growing recognition of tribal sovereignty and a commitment to fostering a partnership where Indigenous voices are central to conversations affecting their futures. Annual Change
708 NAGPRA 2024 Notice Categories 32 Education 5 Emergency Management 10 Energy 16 Environment 31 Funding 14 Gaming 64 Government 26 Healthcare 22 Housing 2 ICWA 7 Infrastructure 16 Land 2 Language & Culture 2 MMIP 5 Natural Resources 8 Public Safety 5 Transportation 3 Veterans 7 Water Rights 124 Tribe-specific 7 Agriculture 20 ANSCA 34 Benefits 57 Boards & Commissions 9 Broadband & Technology 12 Children & Families 12 Consultation 1 Consumer 1 Cybersecurity 7 Economic Development Federal Register Notices Summary In 2024, AIPI closely monitored the Federal Register, the official publication for the federal rule-making process and dissemination of agency information. These notices included consultations, rule changes, committee meetings, grant opportunities, and other key agency actions. Remarkably, 85% of these notices were related to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), highlighting the growing focus on this critical legislation. Following the Department of the Interior’s 2022 proposed rule changes to NAGPRA, which emphasized respecting Indigenous knowledge and required museums and federal agencies to update their collections by 2029, AIPI strategically adjusted its tracking processes to give priority to NAGPRA-related updates. This proactive approach was pivotal as the proposed rules were finalized in December 2023, further underscoring the importance of diligent monitoring to stay ahead of impactful regulatory developments affecting Native American communities.
H.R. 663 (PL 118-160): Native American Child Protection Act This bill updates programs addressing family violence, child abuse, and neglect involving American Indian children and families. It revises the Indian Child Abuse Treatment Grant Program to prioritize culturally appropriate treatment services. The Indian Child Resource and Family Services Centers are renamed the National Indian Child Resource and Family Services Center, tasked with providing technical assistance, training, and developing model agreements between tribes and states to address family violence and child welfare issues. The bill also expands the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Program to allow funding for activities such as child protective services operations. These changes aim to strengthen Tribal capacity to address and prevent child welfare issues in culturally aligned and collaborative ways. This bill was signed into law on 12/23/2024 as Public Law No. 118-160. Sponsor: Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-3). H.R. 2872 (PL 118-35): Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes This act provides continued funding for federal agencies and programs through March 2024, preventing a government shutdown. It extends critical public health programs, including the Special Diabetes Program for Indians, child welfare services, and Medicaid and Medicare adjustments. The act supports tribal health and safety by allowing reassignment of health personnel during emergencies and maintaining the National Disaster Medical System. Additionally, it ensures funding flexibility for agencies like the Department of Defense and extends grants to the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Finally, it exempts the act’s budgetary effects from statutory and Senate pay-as-yougo rules. This bill was signed into law on 1/19/2024 as Public Law No. 118-35. Sponsor: Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA-6). H.R. 4366 (PL 118-122): Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 This act provides FY2024 funding for several federal departments and agencies, incorporating six of the twelve regular appropriations bills, including Military Construction, Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior, and Transportation-related agencies. It extends funding for critical public health programs and other expiring authorities. The act supports tribal and rural development, housing, environmental protection, and veterans’ programs. Additionally, it includes updates to the Compacts of Free Association, strengthening U.S. relations with the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. These provisions ensure continuity and stability for key federal operations and international agreements. This bill was signed into law on 3/9/2024 as Public Law No. 118-122. Sponsor: Rep. John Carter (R-TX-31). 10 Bills Signed Into Law
10 Bills Signed Into Law H.R. 2882 (PL 118-364): Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 This act provides funding for six of the twelve regular appropriations bills, including those for Defense, Homeland Security, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Foreign Operations. It ensures funding for key federal departments and agencies such as the Department of Defense, Department of Education, Congress, and the judiciary, as well as federal payments to the District of Columbia. The bill extends critical programs, including the National Flood Insurance Program and immigration-related authorities, while supporting the Udall Foundation Trust Fund. Additionally, it prohibits the use of State Department funds for payments to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency until March 25, 2025. These provisions aim to maintain government operations and address key national priorities.This bill was signed into law on 3/23/2024 as Public Law No. 118-364. Sponsor: Rep. Juan Ciscomani (RAZ-6). S. 2781 (PL 118-155): Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2024 This bill enables individuals or entities with no ties or liability to abandoned mine sites to remediate them under an EPA pilot program voluntarily. Participants receive liability protection for cleanup efforts meeting specific criteria, with the program set to expire in seven years. The bill also establishes a remediation fund for projects on federal and Tribal lands and outlines permit review requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, aiming to improve environmental and public health outcomes. This bill was signed into law on 12/17/2024 as Public Law No. 118-155. Sponsor: Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM). H.R. 4366 (PL 118-122): Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 This act provides FY2024 funding for several federal departments and agencies, incorporating six of the twelve regular appropriations bills, including Military Construction, Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior, and Transportation-related agencies. It extends funding for critical public health programs and other expiring authorities. The act supports tribal and rural development, housing, environmental protection, and veterans’ programs. Additionally, it includes updates to the Compacts of Free Association, strengthening U.S. relations with the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. These provisions ensure continuity and stability for key federal operations and international agreements. This bill was signed into law on 3/9/2024 as Public Law No. 118-122. Sponsor: Rep. John Carter (R-TX-31).
S. 3857 (PL 118-247): Jamul Indian Village Land Transfer Act This bill places approximately 167.23 acres of land in San Diego, California, into trust for the Jamul Indian Village of California as part of the tribe's reservation. It reaffirms the trust status of 4.87 acres of land previously taken into trust for the tribe in 2024. The Department of the Interior is directed to accept and place an additional 1.1 acres of land into trust upon its transfer by the tribe. The bill explicitly prohibits gaming activities on any of the lands taken into trust under its provisions. This bill was signed into law on 12/23/2024 as Public Law No. 118-247. Sponsor: Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA). S. 382 (PL 118-48): Puyallup Tribe of Indians Land Into Trust Confirmation Act of 2023 This act places approximately 17.264 acres of land in Pierce County, Washington, into trust for the benefit of the Puyallup Tribe as part of the tribe's reservation. The act specifies that the United States is not liable for any environmental contamination that occurred before the land was taken into trust. Additionally, it prohibits gaming activities on the land. This bill was signed into law on 4/19/2024 as Public Law No. 118-48. Sponsor: Sen. Maria Cantwell (DWA). S. 141 (PL 118-210): Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act This act seeks to enhance home care and caregiver support programs provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It removes cost restrictions on noninstitutional alternatives to nursing home care when deemed in the veteran's best interest and mandates VA partnerships with the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly in specific areas. The bill expands access to home- and community-based services through initiatives like the Veteran Directed Care program, improves caregiver support for disabled veterans, and ensures service availability for Native American veterans. Additionally, it calls for a pilot program addressing home health aide shortages, personalized transitions for caregivers exiting VA programs, and a review of geriatric care programs to eliminate gaps and ensure consistent service delivery. This bill was signed into law on 1/2/2025 as Public Law No. 118210. Sponsor: Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS). 2024 Summary
2024 Bill Categories 8 Agriculture 1 ANSCA 11 Appropriation 3 Benefits Programs 2 Boarding Schools 6 Broadband & Technology 5 Budget 12 Children & Families 3 Consumer 17 Education 2 Economic Development 3 Energy 35 Environment 2 Gaming 31 Government 40 Grants 20 Healthcare 10 Housing 2 ICWA 1 Infrastructure 2 Labor 23 Land 7 Language & Culture 5 National Parks & Monuments 14 Public Safety 3 Tax 54 Tribe Specific 6 Veterans 1 Water 5 Water Rights 10 Bills Signed Into Law (cont.) S. 5355 (PL 118-209): NACIE Improvement Act This act requires the President to ensure that the National Advisory Council on Indian Education includes at least one member who is the president of a tribal college or university. This bill was signed into law on 12/23/2024 as Public Law No. 118-209. Sponsor: Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE). H.R. 1240 (PL 118-68): Winnebago Land Transfer Act of 2023 This act takes specified lands in Iowa into trust for the benefit of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. The land is made part of the tribe's reservation. The act prohibits gaming on the land taken into trust. This bill was signed into law on 7/12/2024 as Public Law No. 118-68. Sponsor: Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA-4).
Live Policy Dashboard The American Indian Policy Institute Presents Real-time updates on bills and federal register notices Filter by type and the status of bills & federal notices Access the most up-to-date information and stay organized Learn more at aipi.asu.edu/solutions
Bill Sponsorship Total Bills 0 2 4 6 8 10 Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO-3) Celeste Maloy (R-UT-2) Danny Davis (D-IL-7) Debbie Dingell (D-MI-6) Don Bacon (R-NE-2) Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-2) Jahana Hayes (D-CT-5) Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA-2) Jill Tokuda (D-HI-2) John Carter (R-TX-31) Judy Chu (D-CA-28) Kevin Hern (R-OK-1) Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) Paul Tonko (D-NY-20) Ryan Zinke (R-MT-1) Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM-03) House Representatives AIPI tracked 176 bills in the House of Representatives in 2024. 31 different members of the House of Representatives served as primary sponsors of bills that saw activity over the past year. The following table lists representatives who served as a primary sponsor of multiple bills tracked by AIPI. AIPI tracked 158 bills in the Senate in 2024. Thirty-Three different Senators served as primary sponsors of bills that saw activity over the past year. The following table lists representatives who served as a primary sponsor of multiple bills tracked by AIPI. Summary
Total Bills 0 2 4 6 8 10 Alex Padilla (D-CA) Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) Bernard Sanders (I-VT) Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) Dan Sullivan (R-AK) Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Jacky Rosen (D-NV) Jeff Merkley (D-OR) John Hickenlooper (D-CO) Jon Tester (D-MT) Maria Cantwell (D-WA) Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) Mazie Hirono (D-HI) Mike Rounds (R-SD) Robert Casey Jr (D-PA) Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) Tina Smith (D-MN) Senate Representatives Bill Sponsorship
2024 Milestones Federal Register Notice Total Education Related Notices: 38 Final Rule: Funding: Notice: Proclamation: Comment Request: 2 13 7 1 15 Federal Legislation Total Education Related Bills: 23 Administration: Appropriations: Boarding School: Funding: Government: Health Services: Infrastructure: *NACIE: 5 2 2 5 3 3 1 2 The Department of Education's Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative catalyzed several historic milestones. While Volume 1 was released in 2022, the implications of Volume 2 proved instrumental in shaping the most significant actions of the year. Over the past year, CIE and AIPI tracked 23 Congressional bills and 38 Federal Register notices related to American Indian education. Final volume of the DOI report, expanded on institutional details (deaths, burial sites, religious involvement, federal funding) and offers recommendations to support healing and redress for Indigenous communities and the nation. Oct 2024 | Formal Apology for Indian Boarding Schools Historic apology acknowledging the United States' role in American Indian boarding schools, recognizing the profound harm caused to Indigenous communities and reaffirming a commitment to healing and justice. Dec 2024 | Presidential Proclamation President Biden establishing the Carlisle Federal Indian Boarding School National Monument in Carlisle, Pennsylvania as the 432nd site in national park system. Dec 2024 | Next Era of Tribal Self-Determination President Biden signed historic Executive Order on Reforming Federal Funding and Support for Tribal Nations to Better Embrace The Trust Responsibilities and Promote the Next Era of Tribal Self Determination. Dec 2024 | Preservation of Native American Languages President Biden announced a comprehensive plan to revive Native American languages, expanding access to immersion programs and supporting community-led educational efforts. The Depart. of Ed proposed amendments to the Indian Education Discretionary Grant Programs, focusing on the retention of Indian educators. July 2024 | Boarding School Report Vol. 2 Beginning of consultations to develop a strategic plan aimed at improving educational outcomes for Native students, emphasizing collaboration with Tribal governments and other federal agencies. July 2024 | Professional Development Program Jan 2024 | BIE Strategic Direction Notably, on February 12, 2024, President Biden issued a proclamation honoring and celebrating Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). Of particular significance are the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act of 2024 (H.R.7227, S.1723) and a resolution promoting “National Orange Shirt Week” (H.Res.1526). *NACIE is the acronym for National Advisory Council on Indian Education This document provides a high-level overview of significant legislative and policy developments related to American Indian education throughout the 2024 year. Additionally, this document aims to support Tribal communities, and those supporting American Indian education efforts. Policy Snapshot Key Developments in American Indian Education 2024
The Journey of American Indian Education: Read The Full Report Here This document has provided a detailed exploration of the historical and current landscape of Indian education, emphasizing the importance of federal trust responsibility and the continuous evolution of policies aimed at promoting educational equity, cultural relevance, and self-determination for Native American students. The review of key legislative acts and initiatives over the past five years highlights substantial progress in areas such as language preservation, K-12 funding, and higher education, showcasing the federal government's ongoing commitment to these critical issues. By understanding the historical context and contemporary developments in Indian education, stakeholders can better advocate for policies and practices that support the unique needs of Native American students. The initiatives and provisions outlined, from the Every Student 10 Succeeds Act (ESSA) to recent language preservation acts and higher education executive orders, collectively contribute to a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for Indigenous communities. The continued collaboration between CIE, AIPI, and other key partners helps to support advancements that are sustained and expanded, fostering an ecosystem of lifelong learning, capacity-building, and empowerment for Tribal nations. Through these concerted efforts, the goal of achieving educational equity and excellence for Native American students remains within reach, honoring the rich cultural heritage and promoting the future prosperity of Indigenous communities. Policy Explainer A Five-Year Review of American Indian Education Laws, Policies and Initiatives Author: Brooke Curleyhair The collaborative efforts of the Center for Indian Education (CIE) and the American Indian Policy Institute (AIPI) at Arizona State University seek to advance the understanding and support of Indigenous education at multiple levels. Through their joint initiatives, comprehensive policy tracking, and focused research, both organizations have reinforced their commitment to support an understanding of Tribal sovereignty and addressing the educational needs of American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
As we celebrate the third year of the Indigenous Leadership Academy, I’m filled with gratitude for the incredible leaders who have been part of this journey. This program was created to support and empower the next generation of Indigenous changemakers– whether you’re already leading in your community or preparing to step into a leadership role. The Indigenous Leadership Academy is more than a program; it’s a transformative experience. Through this certificate program, you’ll gain the tools, knowledge, and connections to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose. Here’s what you can expect: Expanded Skills & Knowledge – Learn from experts and peers about leadership, communication, coalition building, and community engagement—everything you need to lead with integrity and impact. Networking Opportunities – Connect with like-minded individuals and build lasting relationships within a growing network of Indigenous leaders. Leadership Growth – Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or refining your skills, this program helps you reach the next level. A Certificate from ASU – Earn a certificate from Arizona State University, a credential that is both recognized and respected, enhancing your career opportunities. Make a Difference – The insights and skills you gain will empower you to create meaningful change in your community and beyond. As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to expand our programming, deepening our impact and continuing to strengthen leadership within Tribal communities. I hope you’ll be part of this journey with us. With heart, K. Talbert Kristen Talbert ILA Program Director A Message From Kristen Talbert:
Celebrating 3 Years of ILA 34% Word of mouth (previous members, family, community) 45% Social media (Linkedin, Instagram, Facebook) How are people hearing about ILA? Networking Community-centered management Leadership skills Enterprise building Research, data & Indigenous knowledge Storytelling Bridging gaps Political & economic context in Indian Country Response & responsibility Topics Covered In Leadership Academy 73 Number of Tribal Nations Represented, 16 of which are located in Arizona. Number of states (and D.C.) represented. 31 Number of Guest speakers the Indigenous Leadership Academy has welcomed. 40 Number of cohort participants who have graduated ILA. 132 Cohort Demographics
ILA Alumni “Being able to learn with and from some accomplished, and just generally amazing, Native people was such a strong connection I am so grateful for, and didn’t realize how badly it was needed. In reflection, I have the utmost respect and smile proudly knowing that the participants, moderators, instructors, and guest speakers of the cohort are all on paths with the vision of empowering, strengthening and helping indigenous people. It’s a huge cheesy smile that brings tears to my eyes knowing I had the opportunity to learn from and with them.” - Raeanne Patch, Cohort 1 Tanya Lewis Chairwoman of the Yavapai-Apache Tribe Dillon Shije Tribal councilman of the Ohkey Owingeh Carla Johnson Vice-Chairwoman of the Tohono O’odham Nation Rosa Alvarez Council member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe Delores Williams Councilwoman of the Ma-Chis Lower Indian Creek Tribe of Alabama Raphael Wahwassuck Tribal Council Member for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Raeanne Patch Tribal Council Member of the Hopi/Mohave Colorado River Indian Tribes Joshua Shumak Acting Vice Chief Wassamasaw of the Tribe of Varnertown Indians Mikah Carlos Council Member, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Elected Tribal Officials Shawna Hotch Tribal Councilwoman, Chilkat Indian Village
Brittany Woods-Orrison Featured in Vogue magazine, “Meet Two Young Indigenous Activists in Alaska Working at the Front Lines of Global Warming” Mikah Carlos Became the youngest person ever elected to Tribal council for the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community. They were also chosen by governor Hobbs to be on the AZ MMIP task force Christopher Lomahquahu Selected to participate in the second cohort graduate partnership program between ASU Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and the Native American Journalists Association Amy Sazue Joined the fourth cohort of the BIPOC Leadership Council at Art Equity ILA works with emerging Indigenous leaders across the nation to expand their knowledge, skills, and networks, addressing long-term issues faced by Indigenous governments, communities, associations, and corporations. The program will inspire and motivate participants to execute strategies and lead change. There is no comparable program in the Nation. Thank You Sponsors Where Are They Now Photography by Roshan
2024 Milestones AIPI Moves to Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law "ASU Law is one of the top law schools in the country, and we look forward to working even more with their other programs, such as the Indian Legal Program (ILP) and the Center for Law, Science, and Innovation (LSI), as we elevate our commitment to Tribal digital sovereignty and Indigenous leadership practices." -AIPI Executive Director Traci Morris Read the full article here "Tribal Digital Sovereignty includes both the information and the physical means by which it transfers— it is governance, it is economic, it is self-determination. With the launch of the center, Tribal Nations will have the resources they need to build their individual proactive digital sovereignty plans." -AIPI Executive Director Traci Morris Read the full article here AIPI and NCAI Open Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty Read the full article here Subscribe to AIPI’s monthly newsletter AIPI Awarded ISOC Grant This groundbreaking research project will create new baseline data to test how historic generational investments in Tribal broadband connectivity impact Tribes’ long-standing infrastructure problems and ultimately challenge a Tribe’s right to exercise digital sovereignty by examining internet connectivity and use patterns impacting 574 Native American tribes. Q1 Q2 Q4
Ongoing academic & federal research TDS Coalition & Policy Tribal Broadband Bootcamp & Digitial Inclusion Certificate Broadband infrastructure & specturm sovereignty Center Resources TDS CENTER NCAI AIPI GET IN TOUCH In Partnership Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty
Community Highlights Gila River Indian Community Inauguration Festivities The American Indian Policy Institute’s Advisory Board Chair, Governor Steven Roe Lewis, was elected to a historic fourth term starting in 2024. The 2024 Inauguration was hosted on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Sheraton Grand Wild Horse Pass. Governor Lewis has been in office for twelve years. During this time, he’s established himself as a collaborative leader, bringing together Tribes, the State, and the Federal Government. Arizona Broadband Summit On January 23, 2024, AIPI Executive Director Traci L. Morris, Ph.D., took part in an expert panel at the Internet For All: Arizona’s Broadband Summit, sponsored by the Arizona Commerce Authority. This workshop provided an opportunity for federal, state, tribal, local government, industry, and other key collaborators to discuss ways to work together to utilize federal dollars as the state prepares to receive significant broadband funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Dr. Morris also sits on Governor Katie Hobbs’ Interagency and Community Broadband Advisory Council (ICBAC). She was joined by Jason Chavez, Director of Tribal Affairs for Gov. Hobbs, and Brian Fickett, the Tohono O’odham Utility Authority General Manager. Wiring the Rez The American Indian Policy Institute along with advisory board members hosted a panel on day one "Creating a Comprehensive Digital Sovereignty Plan: Concepts and Practical Considerations" at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law’s Indian Legal Program and the Rosette, LLP American Indian Economic Development Program hosted the 10th annual Wiring the Rez on Feb. 8 and 9, 2024, in Phoenix at Wild Horse Pass. Wiring the Rez brings experts in economic growth who examine jurisdictional issues, politics, financial and infrastructure needs. Tribal Digital Sovereignty Presentation at the Heard Museum On March 20, Executive Director of AIPI Dr. Traci L. Morris delivered a community presentation on her research on Tribal Digital Sovereignty for the Heard Museum Guild, which is an esteemed membership organization of dedicated volunteers who support the museum's mission and objectives through education, fundraising, public outreach and assistance to American Indian artists and their communities.
Together we are stronger. National Congress of American Indians and American Indian Policy Institute Media Training The National Congress of the American Indians, in collaboration with the American Indian Policy Institute and with support from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, held a media training and communications fellowship at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Arizona State University, May 13-15. The MTC fellowship is an inperson three-day intensive course aimed at working with Tribal leaders and communications professionals by expanding their knowledge and skills to effectively communicate their issues and priorities to various audiences. Governance of Emerging Technologies and Sciences Conference The annual GETS conference collectively discusses the ethical, legal, regulatory and policy issues that surround the emergence of new technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous vehicles and the internet. Leading scholars come to the GETS conference to present their research and a number of plenary sessions are available for recognized experts to share their insights on technology governance. Dr. Morris presented her research on Tribal Digital Sovereignty during a concurrent session on Data Governance. National Congress of American Indians Mid-Year Conference During the morning session on June 4, Willard H. Pedrick Dean, Regents and Foundation Professor of Law, Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, Stacy Leeds and NCAI General Counsel and Chief of Staff Geoffrey Blackwell gave a keynote address announcing the launch of the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty. In collaboration with NCAI, the AIPI, which is now housed at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU, the Center is the first and only in the nation dedicated to providing Tribal governments, leadership and communities with the resources and support needed to establish a digital sovereignty plan. NTTA Conference at Gila River Indian Community The National Tribal Telecommunications Association (NTTA) held its 2024 September Tribal Broadband Summit on the Gila River Indian Community on September 23-25. The Summit brings together Tribal entities, federal agencies, ISPs, and industry representatives to discuss key issues surrounding broadband development and Digital Equity. This year, the Summit featured updates from key agencies like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Contributors Dr. Traci Morris Executive Director, AIPI and Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty Kristen Talbert Indigenous Leadership Academy Program Manager Brooke Curleyhair Research Analyst Design by Kennedy Satterfield Graduate Research Assistant Acknowledgements Stay Informed on Federal Policy Changes Get real-time updates and follow AIPI’s Live Update Legislative Dashboard to track bills and legislation affecting Tribal Nations. American Indian Policy Institute Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law Beaus Center for Law and Society 111 E. Taylor St. Phoenix, AZ 85004 Connect with our accounts @aipinstitute For more go to aipi.asu.edu Find Us Online Mikaela Bledsoe Downs Legal Intern
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