American Indian Advocacy: Strengthening Tribal Soverignty

Historically the American Indian has faced many hurdles and challenges when it comes to accessing the ballot box. This podcast series explores the problems that lack of access presents, and solutions that make voting more accessible in Indian Country. This second broadcast covering the topic of voting rights in Indian Country features Chuck Hoskin, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, and a national leader on Indigenous Rights.

Getting out the Native vote is essential to building and strengthening Tribal Sovereignty. The American Indian voter has been, and is still, subjected to hurdles not faced by other voters. This episode explores the problems with the current voting infrastructure, and speaks to what needs to change... thus allowing the American Indian equal and fair access to a voice in elections.

As Congress begins its work, what's in it for Indian Country? Pandemic Relief has been leading congressional activity in 2021... so what does Congress have in store for Tribal communities? The new Administration has promised better relations with Indian Country, and evidence emerges showing that to be true. And finally, what should the 117th Congress be looking to address, which meets the needs of Indian Country? This episode touches on all these important topics.

Native American communities around the country find themselves in precarious positions when it comes to the ability to cast a vote in elections. It is well documented that in the past unreasonable residency and ID requirements have prevented more than 1 million eligible Native American voters from registering and casting a ballot. As states rollout legislative proposals impacting access to the ballot box, in large measure due to the false claims of voter fraud, Tribal Nations need to pay attention.

With the new incoming Administration, there is new hope that Indian Country needs will be properly addressed. The new Administration has pledged a commitment to Indian Country, and knowing and understanding the pledges is important to Tribal leaders and advocates as this Administration's agenda rolls out. It will be important to hold the Administration to its promises, and in doing so, Tribal sovereignty will be strengthened. This episode will summarize the Biden-Harris Administration promises to Indian County.

In order to effectuate meaningful and lasting change, voices of concern must be heard. For the American Indian, all too often, tribal issues and concerns have been an afterthought. This country needs to honor its treaty and trust responsibilities to Tribal Nations, and American Indian advocacy must play the role of ensuring voices are heard, and holding the United States accountable for its obligations to Indian Country... and when it fails to do so, disastrous things can occur to indigenous communities.