Department of Interior (DOI) & Tribes

The relationship between the Department of the Interior (DOI) and Native American tribes is complex and rooted in a unique legal and historical context. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

• Trust Responsibility:

  • The DOI holds a "trust responsibility" to American Indian and Alaska Native tribes. This stems from historical treaties and legal precedents, obligating the federal government to protect tribal lands, assets, and resources.

• Government-to-Government Relationship:

  • The U.S. government recognizes a "government-to-government" relationship with federally recognized tribes. This acknowledges tribal sovereignty and the right of tribes to self-govern.

  • The DOI plays a central role in maintaining this relationship, working with tribes on matters affecting their lands, resources, and communities.

• Key Responsibilities:

  • The DOI's responsibilities include:

    • Administering programs related to tribal education, healthcare, and economic development.

    • Managing tribal lands and natural resources.

    • Enforcing federal Indian law.

    • Facilitating consultation with tribes on federal policies.

• Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA):

  • Within the DOI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is the primary federal agency responsible for fulfilling these obligations.

• Historical Context:

  • It's crucial to acknowledge the historical context of this relationship, which includes periods of forced removal, broken treaties, and assimilation policies. This history continues to shape the interactions between the DOI and tribes.

• Modern Day relations:

  • In the modern day, there is a focus on promoting tribal self-determination, and supporting tribal sovereignty.

  • Current events, such as the implementation of executive orders, and how those orders are implemented with tribal nations, is an ongoing interaction.

In essence, the DOI acts as the primary federal interface with Native American tribes, working to uphold the government's trust responsibility and support tribal sovereignty.