National Congress of American Indians

?? New Release! Native Organizations Address Misleading 2024 Presidential Exit Polls IllumiNative, Native Organizers Alliance, Native American Rights Fund (NARF), and NCAI challenge flawed exit poll data and advocate for accurate representation of Native voter turnout and systemic challenges. ??? ?? Read the full statement and preliminary findings now: https://lnkd.in/eignuRtr.

One year ago today, the NCAI Foundation was launched on National Philanthropy Day—marking the start of an extraordinary journey. While we knew this endeavor would fill a critical gap in supporting Tribal Nations, we could not have anticipated its profound impact in just 12 months. Looking back, I’m filled with pride at how far we’ve come. It was Greg Masten who envisioned the NCAI Foundation as a means to move critical dollars to Tribal Nations. In just a year, we’ve grown in size and scope but stayed true to the vision. We’ve built more than programs; we’ve built trust, redefined systems, and created pathways for meaningful investment in Indian Country. One of the most rewarding aspects of this work has been designing strategies and grants that express Tribal Nations’ wishes to strengthen democracy and sovereignty on their own terms. The NCAI Communities Fund, a flexible resource addressing community-driven priorities, stands as a testament to our belief in Tribal self-determination. From Walk the Path Fund to the Environmental Sovereignty Fund, each initiative reflects the wisdom and leadership of Tribal Nations. At the heart of all this work is the Equity and Sovereignty Framework. More than a principle, it is the foundation for trust, transparency, and sustainability. Sovereignty is a living, dynamic force that empowers Tribal Nations to solve challenges, define futures, and measure success. By reducing bureaucracy and honoring self-determined priorities, we ensure every dollar aligns with Native communities’ needs and aspirations. This framework is vital—especially now. As systems of power are questioned and reshaped, the NCAI Foundation offers a model rooted in respect and reciprocity. For too long, Tribal Nations and the national civil rights organizations that sustain them have been underfunded, despite their resilience and leadership. Imagine the possibilities when these nations are fully resourced—not just for survival, but for flourishing. As I reflect on this year, I’m inspired daily by what we’ve accomplished and what’s ahead. The vision is clear: to create systems that serve, empower, and honor Tribal Nations. To those who’ve supported us—thank you. To those ready to join us—welcome. Together, we can ensure Tribal Nations lead the way, shaping a more just and sustainable world for us all.

This National Philanthropy Day, we proudly celebrate the first anniversary of the NCAI Foundation—a milestone in advancing sovereignty, strengthening partnerships, and driving transformative impact for Tribal Nations. Join us in reflecting on this remarkable journey with President Greg Masten’s powerful blog post, “Celebrating the First Year of the NCAI Foundation: Lessons in Partnership, Sovereignty, and Impact,” check out Vice President of Philanthropic Strategies Dawn Knickerbocker's reflection, and tune in to the latest Sentinel podcast to hear the stories behind the progress. Check out The Sentinel on all platforms and at blog.ncai.org. Dive into the article by President Masten: https://lnkd.in/ep-SDYZh Check out Vice President Knickerbocker's post: https://lnkd.in/edeMpPbA Donate to NCAIF's mission to help advance tribal sovereignty across Indian Country: www.ncai.org/give

Empowering the next generation of leaders! ?? NCAI’s Youth Commission Officers proudly represented NCAI and Tribal Nations at the White House Tribal Youth Summit today, sharing their vision for a stronger, more unified future for Indian Country.

Discover key findings from recent poll data on Native communities' perspectives on critical issues impacting Indian Country. These insights bring important voices to the forefront, helping inform policies that reflect Native values and priorities. Learn more about what matters most to Native communities today.

Didn’t make it to #NCAI81 earlier this month? We’ll be covering event highlights across NCAI’s channels in the coming days! Monday, October 28, marked the official commencement of the 81st Annual Convention and Marketplace in Las Vegas! ?? Check out highlights from the first General Assembly. Leaders from Congress, the Administration, and our organization came together to provide insight into issues and solutions impacting Tribal Nations. Special guests included Lt. Governor of Minnesota Peggy Flanagan, Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland, Indian Health Service Director Roselyn Tso, and many other distinguished leaders. The day closed with a Cultural Night hosted by NCAI and the Local Planning Committee. Conference attendees were invited to enjoy connecting with one another, and competed in a dance contest to tracks provided by DJ Element! ????

On this Veterans Day, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) humbly honors the service, sacrifice, and spirit of the Native American and Alaska Native veterans who have safeguarded our people, our lands, and our future with unwavering resolve since time immemorial. These men, women, and people, who stand among the most dedicated of the United States' defenders, serve at five times the national average. They serve not only the United States but also uphold the sovereignty and dignity of Tribal Nations, carrying forward the enduring legacy of our ancestors who walked this land long before any modern flag was raised. There are more than 140,000 American Indian and Alaska Native veterans, with over 24,000 currently serving in uniform—an extraordinary presence deeply interwoven with our commitment to protect the future of both Tribal Nations and the United States. Notably, nearly 20% of Native servicemembers are women, who embody the strength and resilience of our communities. These individuals defend not only a nation but also the ancestral homelands that have nurtured our people and cultures across generations. Today, we offer our profound respect and gratitude to every Native veteran and active-duty service member who has stood as a guardian of our shared home. Your courage and sacrifice protect a future for all of us. We are forever indebted to you, our warriors and our elders, for you have given selflessly, embodying the highest ideals of service. NCAI stands with you in reverence and honor, today and always.

We are thrilled to announce the release of ICWA 2050, a comprehensive roadmap to protect the Indian Child Welfare Act and increase tribal child welfare capacity. As one of the partner organizations behind the Protect ICWA Campaign, we are committed to ensuring that the Indian Child Welfare Act remains the gold standard in child welfare policy, safeguarding the rights of Native children and bolstering tribal sovereignty for generations to come. Read the full ICWA 2050 plan and learn how we’re working together to protect the future of ICWA and Native children. #ICWA2050 #ProtectICWA ?? bit.ly/ICWA2050

Earlier this year, National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) presented a resolution at the National Congress of American Indians Mid Year Convention to protect the Indian Child Welfare Act and increase tribal child welfare capacity for future generations through the ICWA 2050 campaign. Read about the campaign and follow along on the Protect ICWA channel: bit.ly/ICWA2050 #ICWA2050 #ProtectICWA

Last week during the 81st Annual NCAI Convention and Marketplace I got to share the Walk the Path Initiative we've been working on. This path will train Tribal leaders and empower our Native youth to defend tribal sovereignty and become the next generation of policy makers Indian Country needs. I can't wait to unveil the revamped and new programming! Stay tuned. <3