STATE News:
FARMINGTON – Leadership from New Mexico’s 23 Nations, Tribes and Pueblos met Tuesday with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, cabinet secretaries and state tribal liaisons for the annual State Tribal Leader Summit.
“The summit provides a valuable opportunity for us to engage in meaningful conversations about issues that matter most to the New Mexicans who hail from our 23 Nations, Tribes and Pueblos,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said. “I’m thankful to join hands with fellow leaders as we strengthen our bonds and unite to enrich the lives of all within our state.”
Established in 2009 under the State Tribal Collaboration Act, the annual summit ensures tribal priorities influence state policy. Convened by the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department, its aim is to bolster relationships between sovereign tribal governments and the state of New Mexico.
“Under Gov. Lujan Grisham’s leadership, there’s been unprecedented support for New Mexico’s Nations, Pueblos, Tribes and native people. Tribal communities now have more opportunities to engage in state decisions, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to genuine government-to-government relationships,” Indian Affairs Secretary Josett D. Monette said. “The strength of Tribal communities and members directly correlates to a stronger New Mexico, and I value being a part of this great work.”
Representatives from tribal communities throughout the state attended the summit to discuss a wide range of issues, including public safety, tribal infrastructure funding, health care delivery and access, state and tribal natural resources, state and tribal economic investments, and education.
About IAD:
Since 2003 the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department (IAD) has implemented groundbreaking state-tribal policies intended to improve the quality of life for the state’s Native citizens. Our initiatives are designed to strengthen Tribal and state relations and address the challenges we face in our communities: economic development, infrastructure improvement, the protection of our cultures and languages, health care accessibility, and educational opportunities for our most precious resource— our children. Learn more at www.iad.state.nm.us.
