On Wednesday, November 13, 2013, Chairperson Silvia Burley of the California Valley Miwok Tribe shares some pictures from the 2013 White House Tribal Nations Conference that was held at the United States Department of the Interior (DOI) Sidney R. Yates Auditorium, at 1849 C Street NW, Washington, D.C.
In the President’s own words, Chairperson Burley heard President Barack Obama say, “the first of my second term – reflects my Administration’s commitment to advancing tribal sovereignty by strengthening our government-to-government relationship and ensuring tribal leaders have a voice when policy priorities are being set.” “Tribal self-determination and prosperity remain a priority for my Administration.”
The President went on to say, “In the coming years, I will keep taking steps to advance tribal sovereignty. I will urge Congress to pass a budget that acknowledges the United States of America’s trust responsibilities to Native Americans while respecting and bolstering Indian self-determination.” “In partnership with tribal nations, my Administration will continue to honor and respect native cultures, languages, and customs. And by working together, we can ensure America retains a place big enough and bold enough to accommodate the dreams and aspirations of all our people.”
On October 31, 2013, President Barack Obama signed a proclamation proclaiming November 2013 as National Native American Heritage Month, and called upon all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to celebrate November 29, 2013, as Native American Heritage Day. In the proclamation, President Obama proclaims, “My Administration remains committed to self-determination, the right of tribal governments to build and strengthen their own communities.” In closing, using President Barack Obama’s words written in his proclamation, as signed on Oct. 31, 2013, the President says, “… Let us shape a future worthy of a bright new generation, and together, let us ensure this country’s promise is fully realized for every Native American.”
