Podcasts about National Congress

Voting rights advocates say a bill to overhaul elections could disenfranchise millions of Americans, especially Native American and other minority voters.  Among other things, the SAVE Act requires all voters to prove their U.S. citizenship, either with a passport or a birth certificate. Numerous studies show Native Americans are less likely to have a valid passport or other documents readily available that prove their place of birth than other groups. It would have major implications for mail-in ballots. The bill passed the House. President Donald Trump added new pressure on members of his own party in the Senate, saying he will not sign any other legislation until the SAVE Act clears Congress. We'll find out the details of the legislation and look ahead to how this and other measures might complicate the Midterm Elections. Allison Renville (Photo: video screen capture) We'll also hear from Allison Renville (Sisseton-Wahpeton Dakota) about her decision to suspend her campaign for governor of South Dakota. Renville was running as an independent voice in the state that also elected Kristi Noem as governor. She cites the enormous cost of running a major campaign as a deterrent to welcoming diverse political voices. GUESTS Jacqueline De León (Isleta Pueblo), senior staff attorney for the Native American Rights Fund Lenny Fineday (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe), general counsel for the National Congress of American Indians Jaynie Parrish (Diné), executive director and founder of Arizona Native Vote Allison Renville (Sisseton and Hunkpapa Lakota and Omaha and Haudenosaunee), activist and political strategist

Voting rights advocates say a bill to overhaul elections could disenfranchise millions of Americans, especially Native American and other minority voters.  Among other things, the SAVE Act requires all voters to prove their U.S. citizenship, either with a passport or a birth certificate. Numerous studies show Native Americans are less likely to have a valid passport or other documents readily available that prove their place of birth than other groups. It would have major implications for mail-in ballots. The bill passed the House. President Donald Trump added new pressure on members of his own party in the Senate, saying he will not sign any other legislation until the SAVE Act clears Congress. We'll find out the details of the legislation and look ahead to how this and other measures might complicate the Midterm Elections. Allison Renville (Photo: video screen capture) We'll also hear from Allison Renville (Sisseton-Wahpeton Dakota) about her decision to suspend her campaign for governor of South Dakota. Renville was running as an independent voice in the state that also elected Kristi Noem as governor. She cites the enormous cost of running a major campaign as a deterrent to welcoming diverse political voices. GUESTS Jacqueline De León (Isleta Pueblo), senior staff attorney for the Native American Rights Fund Lenny Fineday (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe), general counsel for the National Congress of American Indians Jaynie Parrish (Diné), executive director and founder of Arizona Native Vote Allison Renville (Sisseton and Hunkpapa Lakota and Omaha and Haudenosaunee), activist and political strategist

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has published numbers on how many employees left the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) during President Donald Trump's first year in office. BIA focused on reducing its federal workforce through layoffs and hiring freezes. KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio has details. The 31-page report finds that more than 800 employees were gone by last July. That is roughly 11%. When such restructuring occurs, BIA is supposed to notify tribes in advance. “Tribal leaders told us that the consultations happened after the staff reductions.” Anna Maria Ortiz is director of GAO's natural resources and environmental team. “It's resulting in the loss of a lot of institutional knowledge. It's very hard for BIA to fulfill its mission.” BIA did not offer a comment to GAO on its report, but tells KJZZ it is committed to increasing efficiency, accountability, and support for tribal self-determination. (Courtesy CSPAN) Since assuming his second presidential term last year, Trump has leveled several executive orders that have affected Two Spirits and the Native LGBTQ+ community. Brian Bull (Nez Perce) of Buffalo's Fire reports. Trump's decree for federal agencies is to only recognize “male” and “female” as genders, determined at conception. Trump has also banned gender-affirming care for youth. Elton Naswood is the executive director of the Two Spirit and Native LGBTQ+ Center for Equity. He says, as the White House began its onslaught against his community last year, he reached out to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), which reactivated its Two-Spirit Task Force. “I had heard a community member express the frustration of  ‘Why our people are not protecting us?’ Just that simple phrase really hit me, and instilled some type of advocacy tactic to be able to begin to highlight the issues of how the Trump administration’s executive orders were going to impact our communities.” Before colonization, Two Spirits were accepted and even seen as sacred in many tribes, but over the past few centuries, Western attitudes have sparked intolerance and harassment against them and Native LGBTQ+ people. Naswood says resolutions from the NCAI help, as does carrying on events like the annual Bay Area American Indian Two Spirit Powwow. Just being among community is healing, he adds. (Courtesy BLM) Western Washington communities are applauding the state house and senate for including full wildfire prevention funding in their proposed budgets. Isobel Charle has more. The decisions honor a previous legislative commitment. Glenn Ellis Jr. is a board member of The Nature Conservancy and a member of the Makah Tribe. The Makah reservation sits on the north end of the Olympic Peninsula – one of the rainiest places in the country. Ellis notes that while people rarely associate the peninsula with fire, recent years have proven otherwise. “Three years ago, we had two fires sprout up during November. It’s just crazy to think that fire could spread in a place like this during that time. We get 119 inches of rain a year. We’re a temperate rainforest.” Funds from what was known as H.B. 1168, that passed five years ago, have helped 175 small forest landowners in three counties reduce wildfire risk through thinning and prescribed burns. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Wednesday, March 4, 2026 — Fighting to preserve hard-won gains in K-12 lessons about Native Americans

When China's top political advisory body and legislature convene this week for their annual sessions, the major item on their agendas will be a draft outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30). The deeper story, however, lies in how these gatherings have evolved into a mechanism through which the country's leadership translates strategic vision into operational governance and concrete results.Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping has participated in deliberations and exchanges with National People's Congress deputies and members of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee more than 60 times, guiding the trajectory of China's modernization.Xi's emphasis during these meetings on high-quality development, innovation-driven growth and people-centered governance has provided a consistent policy framework that has helped China navigate a volatile global environment while sustaining growth and stability.China's GDP surpassed 140 trillion yuan ($20.4 trillion) last year, amid supply-chain disruptions and rising geopolitical tensions — evidence of a system that has prioritized resilience and structural upgrading over short-term stimulus.What distinguishes Xi's engagement at the two sessions is its granular focus. Xi has communicated extensively with NPC deputies and CPPCC National Committee members on factory productivity, rural incomes, eldercare services, environmental remediation, talent cultivation, etc. This micro-to-macro feedback loop is effective in strengthening communications between the leadership and those from all walks of life. When a steel plant manager reports that digital upgrades have raised productivity, or a community social worker describes improved eldercare services following targeted policy guidance, these examples become data points in a broader effort to recalibrate national priorities toward quality, efficiency and equity in national social and economic development.A theme emerging from Xi's participation in these discussions is the primacy of high-quality development. His assertion that without high-quality development, there can be no socialist modernization reflects an understanding familiar to economists: growth that relies on diminishing returns, environmental degradation or excessive leverage is self-limiting. By urging authorities at various levels to develop new quality productive forces while upgrading traditional industries, the leadership has sought to promote technological diffusion and industrial modernization rather than premature deindustrialization.The results are visible in multiple sectors. Artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing are reshaping production models, while breakthroughs in materials science and power equipment are reducing dependence on foreign inputs. These developments suggest a pragmatic strategy to move up the value chain while preserving and optimizing the country's manufacturing base.Xi's calls to improve talent-training mechanisms and align education with economic needs reflect a recognition that human capital is the foundation for these endeavors. The development of national engineering academies, university technology transfer centers and industry-education partnerships indicates an attempt to institutionalize this linkage. In economic terms, China is trying to internalize the spillover benefits of innovation by embedding research, production and skills development within a unified policy ecosystem.Equally notable is the sustained focus on people's livelihoods. Xi's exchanges with farmers, migrant workers, grassroots civil servants and researchers on poverty alleviation, rural vitalization, employment and eldercare underscore the people-first principle of the country's public policies. The transformation of once-impoverished villages through infrastructure, e-commerce and eco-tourism, and the expansion of community-based services for the elderly, illustrate a shift from subsistence security to quality-of-life improvements. This aligns with the goal of advancing common prosperity — which balances efficiency with social fairness and justice.Environmental policy provides another lens through which to assess the modernization agenda. The concept that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets has been operationalized through nationwide ecological restoration, renewable energy deployment and desertification control. Regions once defined by environmental degradation are now experimenting with solar power, eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture, suggesting that environmental stewardship is being integrated into local growth models rather than treated as an external constraint.Xi's engagement with the national lawmakers and political advisers at the two sessions since 2012 highlights the way in which the country aligns good governance with economic transformation and social welfare in pursuit of national modernization.

The National Congress of American Indians hears an update on the Tribal Supreme Court Project on February 11, 2026. The Tribal Supreme Court Project is a joint initiative of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF). The project is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. SPEAKERS Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, NCAI Tracy Labin Rhodes, Attorney formerly of NARF Melody McCoy, Senior Staff Attorney, NARF The update took place at NCAI's executive council winter session in Washington, D.C.

The National Congress of American Indians hears an update on the Tribal Supreme Court Project on February 11, 2026. The Tribal Supreme Court Project is a joint initiative of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF). The project is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. SPEAKERS Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, NCAI Tracy Labin Rhodes, Attorney formerly of NARF Melody McCoy, Senior Staff Attorney, NARF The update took place at NCAI's executive council winter session in Washington, D.C.

The National Congress of American Indians hears an update on the Tribal Supreme Court Project on February 11, 2026. The Tribal Supreme Court Project is a joint initiative of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF). The project is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. SPEAKERS Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, NCAI Tracy Labin Rhodes, Attorney formerly of NARF Melody McCoy, Senior Staff Attorney, NARF The update took place at NCAI's executive council winter session in Washington, D.C.

The National Congress of American Indians hears an update on the Tribal Supreme Court Project on February 11, 2026. The Tribal Supreme Court Project is a joint initiative of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF). The project is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. SPEAKERS Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, NCAI Tracy Labin Rhodes, Attorney formerly of NARF Melody McCoy, Senior Staff Attorney, NARF The update took place at NCAI's executive council winter session in Washington, D.C.

IMAGE CREDIT: Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile from Santiago, Chile, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons LINKS: Fernando Natalio CHOMALÍ GARIB on Catholic-Hierarchy.org: https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bchga.html   Fernando Natalio CHOMALÍ GARIB on Gcatholic.org: https://gcatholic.org/p/8844  2023 Vatican Biographical Summary of Fernando Natalio CHOMALÍ GARIB (Italian): https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2023/10/25/321025d.html  Chilean Bishops' Conference 2023 bio of Fernando Natalio CHOMALÍ GARIB (Spanish): https://iglesiadeconcepcion.cl/noticias/monsenor-fernando-chomali-ha-sido-nombrado-arzobispo-de-santiago/  2016 Revised statutes of the Pontifical Academy for Life (Italian): https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2016/11/05/161105b.html  2018 BBC coverage of the Father Karadima case through the eyes of one of his victims, James Hamilton: https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-45486176 2010 NY Times coverage of the Father Karadima case: https://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/28/world/americas/28chile.html 2010 The Media Project coverage of Father Karadima case: https://web.archive.org/web/20160303165612/http://themediaproject.org/article/chile-wrestles-religion-and-impunity  2014 NCR coverage of Father Karadima https://www.ncronline.org/news/accountability/chilean-cardinals-close-pope-stained-abuse-cover-ups  2018 24 Horas report on church membership and trust (Spanish): https://www.24horas.cl/papafranciscoenchile/cifra-de-chilenos-que-se-declaran-catolicos-bajo-desde-73-a-45-en-la-ultima-decada-2612241  2015 NCR coverage of the controversy over Bishop Barros' appointment: https://www.ncronline.org/news/parish/controversial-chilean-bishops-appointment-continues-divide-diocese  2015 Huffington Post coverage of Bishop Barros controversy: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/backlash-against-chilean_b_6955290/amp  Voice of America coverage of Pope Francis' trip to Chile:  https://www.voanews.com/a/pope-wraps-up-latin-america-trip/4217547.html  Firebombings: https://www.kcrg.com/content/news/Update-3-churches-firebombed-in-Chile-during-pope-visit-469520773.html?outputType=amp  2018 BBC coverage of the mass resignation of the Chilean Bishops' Conference: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-44442233  More via NCR: https://www.ncronline.org/news/francis-accepts-two-more-chilean-bishops-resignations-continuing-abuse-fallout  More via NPR: https://www.npr.org/2018/06/11/618825779/pope-francis-accepts-resignations-of-3-bishops-over-chilean-abuse-scandal  More via Religionnews.com: https://religionnews.com/2018/08/03/will-pope-francis-solve-the-abuse-crisis/  December 2024 The Pillar interview: https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/speed-dating-the-new-cardinals-could  Cardinal Garib Washing His Shirt: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DJR_m0xgCsT/  TRANSCRIPT: Hello everyone, welcome to Cardinal Numbers, a rexypod reviewing and ranking all the Cardinals of the Catholic Church from the Catacombs to Kingdom Come. One thing that I'll always remember about the end of my daily show experience is that one accompanying factor was the start of a war. It can be hard to keep at things when you're feeling down, and war had broken out in the Middle East the day I broke my streak of over 100 daily episodes. That's on my mind again because today's Cardinal is of Palestinian descent, and another war broke out today. So before we move on, I want to endorse both working for peace  and praying for peace. Goodness knows we need to do all we can, and that we need all the help we can get.  Also, before we get into things, please note that this episode was basically the one that sealed the deal on me going into my most recent hiatus. It took more research than expected because of the number of serious accusations adjacent to the story of our Cardinal of the day. Arguably I *could* have told most of future Cardinal Chomalí's story without getting into the Karadima case and subsequent Barros controversy, but that would have taken a lot of intentional sidelining of topics that unfortunately need to be front and center regardless of how controversial they are. Dozens of times we've seen the consequences of downplaying or sidelining such things, and I don't intend to contribute to that. If Cardinal Chomalí goes to the next round, I promise more of the focus will be on his own life and less on the dung he found himself shoveling. And now for the official warning: please note that this episode includes extensive discussion of scandal caused by the sexual abuse of minors and coverups. Listener discretion is advised. Today we're looking at our fifth bishop from the list of new Cardinals Pope Francis elevated on December 7th 2024–his last consistory for the creation of new Cardinals. Fernando Natalio CHOMALÍ GARIB, who describes himself as a descendent of a Palestinian, was born on March 10, 1957 in Santiago, Chile, the capital and largest city basically in the middle of the almost comically long country along South America's Pacific coast. Fernando is one of our late blooming vocations–his first degree was in Civil Engineering, though admittedly it was from the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, which does host a seminary, though presumably our civil engineer didn't go through that side of things. Instead, when Fernando did decide to go to seminary and study theology and philosophy and such, it was through the Pontifical Major Seminary of Santiago, a storied institution in the suburbs. Enter the B plot for today, because in 1984, the same year Fernando entered seminary, a group of parishioners reported the “improper conduct” of another I cannot emphasize enough quite different Fernando, Father Fernando Karadima. The report was made to the Archbishop of Santiago, a man whose name I will not trouble you with because this is going  to be an episode with a lot of names as-is and he'll get his own episode in time. Allegedly the letter containing the report was “torn up and thrown away”, in any event nothing came of it at the time. The Archbishop's secretary, Juan Barros, possibly already Father Barros by this stage, was a protege of Karadima and would later wind up accused of helping cover up Father Karadima's crimes, and this is not the last time we will see him, so keep that name in mind. To recap, we have Father Karadima, a powerfully connected child rapist, potential Father Barros, a fan of Father Karadima and an alleged enabler, and not-yet Father Chomalí, our Cardinal of the day, who isn't connected to our B-Plot yet, so let's move his side of things forward and see how this plays out. In 1991, after seven years of study on top of his engineering degree, Franando Chomalí was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Santiago de Chile. After two years of yet further study, he then obtained a licentiate in Moral Theology from the Gregorian in Rome, followed a year later by a doctorate in Sacred Theology from the same storied institution in 1994. I did see some reference to pastoral work, but considering we're like five degrees deep and he still isn't done studying–hello masters in bioethics from the John Paul II Institute in Rome–it's not going to surprise you that Father Chomalí mainly followed the academic route, serving in bioethical and theological posts at the Major Pontifical Seminary of Santiago and the Pontifical University of Chile–both of these, you might recall, being institutions that he had personally attended. In 2001, presumably in part due to his bioethics credentials, he was added to the Pontifical Academy for Life for life, which, yes, I'm repeating myself because not only is “for Life” part of the name, but apparently it was a lifetime appointment. Unfortunately in 2016 Pope Francis shook things up so there are no more appointments to the Pontifical Academy for Life for life. In 2003, our B plot shows back up, with a successor Cardinal Archbishop of Santiago getting more reports of Father Karadima's monstrosities. You'll be pleased to know that at this point the Chilean Bishop's Conference had new processes in place and you'll be furious to know that those new processes were basically ignored while the Cardinal told the complainant that he was praying for him. Nothing was done, hashtag thoughts and prayers. The next year the same cardinal received another report, and you'll be pleased to know that this time the case wound up referred to a specialist, who determined the allegations were credible and recommended action. You'll then be *again* furious to learn that the Cardinal proceeded to ignore the determination and dismissed the case anyways. You'll hear more about all this in *that* cardinal's episode, for now let's get back to Fr  Chomalí, whose phone is ringing. His white phone. It's Pope Benedict, calling to make him Auxiliary Bishop of Santiago and Titular Bishop of Nola because you apparently just can't be an auxiliary bishop without a little patch of North Africa to theoretically but not practically call your own. Anyways, that all went down in 2006. In 2010, the Karadima case became international news for the first time when victims filed a criminal complaint in Chile's courts, twenty-five years after that first 1985 letter to Church authorities. The civil courts did not prove more helpful, dismissing the lawsuit due to the time having passed since the events in question, which really has me wanting to flip some tables. For what it's worth, the presiding judge made it clear that she thought Karadima was guilty as sin. The accusations now being public apparently stirred the Church into action. Suddenly the stonewalling Cardinal–reminder that's not Chomalí but another prelate we'll discuss in time–sent a reportedly 700 page file over to the Vatican, which in 2011 found Karadima guilty of abusing minors and sentenced him to a "life of prayer and penitence”. The by then 80 year old Karadima would continue protesting his innocence and by some accounts flaunt his ban from ministry, saying Mass for his followers, which, yes, he definitely *still* had followers. Also in 2011, our Cardinal of the Day Bishop Chomalí became Archbishop Chomalí when Pope Benedict made him Archbishop of Concepción, a bit south of Santiago, which was his first time really serving outside the capital apart from his studies in Rome. And with the Karadima case casting a shadow over the Church across the country, Archbishop Chomalí had his work cut out for him, with trust in the Church as an institution plummeting from 61% in 2010 to just 36% a year later according to polling data. Incredibly, Archbishop Chomalí managed to *increase* church membership in these conditions, probably aided by the broadly popular election of Pope Francis in 2013. Pope Francis wasn't magic though, and it's time to talk about one of his bigger mistakes. Remember Juan Barros, the Archbishop's secretary who was accused of helping protect his mentor Father Karadima? Well, he had been made a bishop back in the 90s, and in 2015 against the advice of basically everyone everywhere, Pope Francis decided to give Barros a new post as Bishop of Osorno. One of the voices against the appointment was Archbishop Chomalí, who was serving as Apostolic Administrator of Osorno at the time and so had front row seats to just how poorly it was coming across, and urged Pope Francis to reconsider. In addition, about half the clergy of the diocese publicly opposed the move–coming out in public against the guy who is set to be your boss is pretty gutsy–and even the politicians got involved, with 51 members of Chile's National Congress signing a letter opposing the move. Pope Francis carried on undaunted, and Bishop Barros was installed in a rather poorly attended ceremony, that is, poorly attended unless you count the hundreds of protestors who stormed the Cathedral. Bishop Barros came over to Osorno from the post he had held as the Military Ordinary for Chile. With that spot now vacant, you guessed it, Archbishop Chomalí was tapped to administer things for Chile's military, which, it's worth noting, grants him the rare privilege of being associated with Antarctica on GCatholic's database, thanks to the Chapel of St. Mary Queen of Peace in Chile's Antarctic zone. The controversy over Bishop Barros came to a head a few years later, when Pope Francis visited Chile. To be clear, the visit *didn't* calm things down–the word “firebombings” comes to mind–and Pope Francis didn't make a conciliatory gesture during the trip. Quite the opposite in fact. Pope Francis wound up defending his choice to appoint Bishop Barros and keep him in place, stating that the case against Barrros was baseless slander, committing that if he ever received evidence, he would respond. With the gauntlet thrown, the evidence apparently came, such that within months Pope Francis was apologizing for his stance, and the *entire* Bishops' Conference of Chile offered their resignations to the Pope, which might give a sense of the magnitude reached here. In the end, most of the bishops, including Archbishop Chomalí, were allowed to carry on, resignations not accepted, though Bishop Barros and three others were sacked as part of the reckoning. Later in the year, presumably as additional fallout from the visit and the subsequent fresh round of investigations, Karadima himself was laicized. *Mr.* Karadima would die in 2021. In October of 2023, Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Chomalí as the fourteenth Archbishop of Santiago de Chile. He became President of the Episcopal Conference of Chile at the same time, which I imagine was no coincidence, though there have been times recently when the two posts are held by different people. He had been the Conference's Vice President since 2021. Given his influential post in Chile's capital, Archbishop Chomalí's inclusion in Pope Francis's last batch of new Cardinals was hardly a surprise. Even though Pope Francis didn't heed his advice at the time, it's likely that Chomalí's advice against one of the biggest mistakes of Pope Francis' papacy was on both their minds as Francis made him a Cardinal. Shortly after Cardinal Chomalí was elevated, The Pillar, which is becoming something of a go-to source for church news, published a series of short interviews with several of the new Cardinals, including Chomalí. And so as we prepare to wrap things up for today, I'd like to offer you a short quotation from that piece so you can get a bit of flavoring from him rather than from the  various dumpster fires he was tasked with putting out: “Christian anthropology says that if we want to be happy, we have to give ourselves to others. And secular anthropology tells us that we have to seek happiness by our own means. But things end up badly for us that way because we find ourselves in a society that competes but doesn't find itself. And that is precisely where conflicts arise.” Along with his brother cardinals, Fernando Natalio Cardinal CHOMALÍ GARIB participated in the recent election of Pope Leo. Just before the conclave, Cardinal Chomalí shared a video of himself hand-washing his shirt as part of his preparations, and of course you can catch that exciting link in the show notes. Cardinal Chomali will be eligible to participate in future conclaves until he turns 80 in 2037. Today's episode is part of Cardinal Numbers, and we'll be talking about another one of the new cardinals next month. Or well, later this month, since this episode is a bit late. Thank you for listening, God bless you all! Thanks, Joe!

Canadian energy firm Enbridge will reimburse a northern Wisconsin county for the cost of policing protests expected with construction of the company's Line 5 reroute. As Danielle Kaeding reports, the Ashland County board approved the deal Tuesday. The Wisconsin Counties Association negotiated an agreement where Enbridge will reimburse local governments for public safety costs tied to the Line 5 project in northern Wisconsin. Funds will be deposited into an escrow account managed by the association. Some residents worried the deal would turn local authorities into a private security force. Bad River tribal member Edith Leoso warned against signing the agreement to get reimbursed by Enbridge. “They will feed you what you want to hear, and then they will take everything from this area and leave you to pick up the pieces.” An Enbridge spokesperson said the company volunteered to fund the account. Enbridge also said it received a final US Army Corps permit that the company says will allow construction to move forward, but state approvals for the project are being challenged in court. Enbridge previously paid millions for public safety costs tied to protests of its Line 3 replacement project in Minnesota. ZenniHome founder Bob Worsley shares his excitement about opening up his facility in 2024 atop the former Navajo Generating Station near Page, Ariz. (Photo: Gabriel Pietrorazio / KJZZ) A civil lawsuit filed in Maricopa County Superior Court in Arizona alleges a factory on the Navajo Nation was “squandering millions on improper and mysterious expenditures” before suddenly shutting down in July. KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio has more. The Albuquerque, N.M.-based firm Indigenous Design Studio + Architecture (IDSA) alleges that Mesa subcontractor ZenniHome breached its $50 million deal to build 160 modular homes. “There's a whole lot of money that got dumped into Zenni and obviously only to produce 18 homes, it's a mystery how that occurred.” Attorney Jay Curtis says IDSA is looking to repair the reputation of its founder, Tamarah Begay, in addition to recouping roughly $22 million from the American Rescue Plan Act for the Navajo Nation. ZenniHome CEO Bob Worsley says there will not be a refund of any amount. “No, the money is gone … It's not sitting in somebody's account somewhere, so the company has been liquidated. There's no more assets. It's just almost theater when we spent every dime they gave us, and about $4 million more than that – out of my pocket – so yeah, that's not going to happen.” Worsley also faces a separate federal class action lawsuit after laying off more than 200 employees last year. Rex Lee Jim, Vice President of the Navajo Nation prepares notes prior to a media call in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Radio Studio in Washington, D. C., Monday, March. 3, 2015. (Photo: Bob Nichols / USDA) Former Navajo Nation Vice President Rex Lee Jim is being remembered for his advocacy for Navajo people, including in education and culture, and as an international diplomat. Jim served as vice president from 2011 to 2015 with Navajo President Ben Shelly. He also served on the Navajo council, was a poet, playwright, author, and traditional medicine man. The Navajo Nation Council said Jim passed away on Tuesday and recognized his dedication to Navajo people, cultural preservation, and global Indigenous advocacy. JoAnn Chase (Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara), former executive director of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), is being remembered for strengthening NCAI's national presence and advocating for Native rights. Chase served as executive director from 1994 to 2001. In a statement Tuesday, NCAI said of Chase's passing that her leadership help the organization become stronger and more visible, working with tribal leaders, Congress, and others. She later worked in philanthropy, policy, and arts, including most recently serving as vice chair of the board for the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Wednesday, February 25, 2026 — The Menu: Commod Bods, a standout frybread stand, and Afro-Indigenous mutual aid in Minneapolis

Buenos Aires comes to a halt as workers stage another general strike over labour reforms, with protestors gathering outside Congress, as politicians inside debated. Also, why has the US trade deficit reached a record-high of $1.2 trillion. And, as Nestlé announces its full years results we hear why the company is selling off its ice-cream business.(Picture: Demonstrators take part in a protest outside Argentina's National Congress on the day lawmakers discuss labor reforms proposed by President Javier Milei's in Buenos Aires, Argentina February 19, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Agustin Marcarian).

Buenos Aires comes to a halt as workers stage another general strike over labour reforms, with protestors gathering outside Congress, as politicians inside debated. Also, why has the US trade deficit reached a record-high of $1.2 trillion. And, as Nestlé announces its full years results we hear why the company is selling off its ice-cream business. (Picture: Demonstrators take part in a protest outside Argentina's National Congress on the day lawmakers discuss labor reforms proposed by President Javier Milei's in Buenos Aires, Argentina February 19, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Agustin Marcarian).

Buenos Aires comes to a halt as workers stage another general strike over labor reforms - with protestors gathering outside Congress, as politicians inside debated. We hear the latest from the ground. US imports continued to outpace exports last year, pushing the country's trade deficit to a record high of about 1.2 trillion dollars. Meanwhile, Canada has narrowed its trade deficit thanks to aerospace exports. We speak to the president a Miami‑based consultancy that looks at trade figures.And Nestle has unveiled its full year results - announcing it was streamlining its operations, including selling its remaining ice cream business to Haagen-Dazs owner Froneri. We hear from someone who represents investors in Nestle as a fund manager with the Lichenstein State Bank and ask if recent baby formula controversy has damaged the company's overall financial position.(Picture: Demonstrators take part in a protest outside Argentina's National Congress on the day lawmakers discuss labor reforms proposed by President Javier Milei's in Buenos Aires, Argentina February 19, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Agustin Marcarian).

The federal government is encouraging tribes to partner with data centers. That could mean leasing land or, as the Mountain West News Bureau's Hanna Merzbach reports, selling power. At a U.S. Department of Energy webinar, Ken Ahmann with Colusa Indian Energy said that is where the big bucks come in. “ Potentially billions of dollars into the coffers of tribes.” His company provides energy infrastructure to data centers on tribal land. He says these partnerships can be good for tribes that have land and resources to power big projects like the Osage Nation in Oklahoma. Paul Bemore is the chair of the tribe's utility board. “Tribes that are casino-dependent really need to look at other ways to build their economies, and I think data centers is one of those opportunities.” Though Bemore says people may be wary about how this will impact the environment. Other tribes have expressed concerns about data centers draining precious water supplies. (Courtesy Disney) Disney's animated film “Moana 2” has been translated into Hawaiian just like the first movie. Hawai‘i Public Radio's Cassie Ordonio reports. Most Disney productions are dubbed in more than 40 languages after appearing in English. The Moana series is one of them. The sequel made history with a global debut on Disney plus this month – marking the beginning of Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, or Hawaiian Language Month. Lāiana Kanoa-Wong is a member of the “Moana 2” Oceanic Cultural Trust. “Things that you could find on the media or in shows, we didn’t have it. We were watching every cartoon you could imagine at the time. We were watching all of these things, but nothing ever looked and sounded like us. And so being able to be a part of this project was a huge honor and privilege.” Kanoa-Wong was honored to be a part of the project and to see the characters brought to life in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. “It was important to make sure that the maoli Hawai‘i was still strong, like the essence and what we’re trying to say was so strong, even if sometimes it didn’t match perfectly with the lip flap, we forgave ourselves sometimes, if it conveyed the meaning and it was helpful for that purpose, or we would sometimes like we would have written it out, and we’re like, Oh, we got to add a few more things why don’t we add this word or these sounds that can also deepen the meaning, but from a Hawaiian worldview.” “Moana 2” tells the story of the Polynesian princess receiving a call from her wayfinding ancestors. She embarks on a dangerous journey across the ocean, reunites with Maui, and recruits other characters from her home in Motunui to join her. The Hawaiian language version of the film is produced by an all-local cast, including the original Moana voice actress Auli‘i Cravalho. The character Loto is voiced by Native Hawaiian actress Pualalea Panaewa. “For me, it was a very special opportunity to be able to voice a character in such a beloved Disney film series. Moana is huge. Not just amongst our people too. Not just amongst Hawaiians or Polynesians or Oceania like in the world.” Jim Gray, former Principal Chief of the Osage Nation, is being remembered for his leadership and advocacy for Indian Country. He passed away last week at age 64. Chairperson Ben Barnes of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma says Gray's achievements for his tribe and Indian Country have left a profound impact, including modernizing the Osage Nation's government by ratifying its first constitution, and securing equal voting rights for every Osage member. The National Congress of American Indians President Mark Macarro says Gray devoted his life to strengthening the Osage Nation and advancing tribal sovereignty. Funeral services are being held Monday on the Osage Nation. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Monday, February 16, 2026 — Tribes come to grips with $1.5 billion federal funding retraction

A senior official of the Centrist Reform Alliance has suggested that the Japanese opposition party will carefully consider whether to join a proposed national congress for talks on issues including a possible consumption tax cut to zero for food.

Protecting tribal sovereignty is a top discussion at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 2026 Executive Council Winter Session, which is taking place this week in Washington, DC. NCAI President Mark Macarro (Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians) highlighted the importance of tribal sovereignty in his State of Indian Nations address. Macarro says before there was a U.S., there were sovereign tribal nations. “Our sovereignty was not created by treaties, nor granted by Congress. It is inherent and existed before colonization. Treaties did not give us sovereignty. They recognized it. The Constitution did not define us it acknowledged us. Federal laws did not create our rights, it memorialized them. And yet for centuries, our sovereignty has been attacked and attempts continue to constrain and diminish it. Yet our nations continue to govern, continue to lead, to teach, to resist, and to rise.” Macarro says recent attacks include calls by Gov. Kevin Stitt (Cherokee/R-OK) to limit tribal sovereignty, which Macarro says is appalling. Tribal leaders in Oklahoma agree with Macarro’s sentiment. Reggie Wassana is governor of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. “This day and age, we shouldn’t have to ask why tribes have a sovereignty. We shouldn’t have to ask what the tribe’s capabilities are, how they can function, how they can prosper, and who are tribes.” Wassana and Macarro say tribal leaders are often educating elected officials about American Indian history, tribal sovereignty and the U.S. government's trust and treaty responsibilities. Before every census, the federal government picks several test sites, focusing on hard-to-reach areas, but the bureau has cancelled that testing at four of the six regions, including two that cover Arizona tribal lands. As KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio reports, this is not the first time the Census has changed course with Indian Country. In fact, this also happened in 2016 when two reservations in Washington and South Dakota were nixed, citing budget uncertainty and funding shortages. Census consultant Saundra Mitrovich (Berry Creek Rancheria of Maidu Indians of California), co-leads the Natives Count Coalition. “In the last two decennials, not only have we had the undercount, but we've had this cancellation of test sites for tribal areas twice.” Mitrovich says one concern is that the Trump administration is considering to use postal service staff to replace temporary census workers to conduct the count and cut down on costs. “A lot of the households are left invisible to the census, and they also have non-traditional addresses.” In 2020, the nonprofit Native American Rights Fund reported that more than 80% of all registered Indigenous voters in Arizona – outside of metro Phoenix and Tucson – rely solely on P.O. boxes. This time around, San Carlos and White Mountain Apache homes in Arizona as well as Cherokee households in North Carolina are being left out. The Census Bureau would not say why. “How are we gonna say that we're going to carry out this fair and full representation that the survey is supposed to provide of the country?” And on this day in 1978, the “Longest Walk” by Native activists began. A start-up ceremony took place on Alcatraz Island, where the group then proceeded to travel by foot from Sacramento to Washington D.C. to build awareness of treaty rights and injustice. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Wednesday, February 11, 2026 – Route 66 changed tribes' connections and culture

Tribal leaders from across the country are gathered in Washington D.C. this week for the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 2026 Executive Council Winter Session and State of Indian Nations Address. NCAI Youth Commission Co-Presidents Jonas Kanuhsa (Gila River Indian Community) and Angelina Serna (Oneida Nation and Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians) kicked off Monday morning's assembly by delivering the youth commission speech. Serna says her message to tribal leaders is to recognize the contributions being made by Native youth. “I really talk about tokenism when it comes to Native and really putting youth at the forefront and having youth at these tables, at these conversations, giving youth that opportunity to really learn, and for the adults to be learners and teachers as well, and incorporating language and culture in everything that we do because what we do has spirit, has purpose.” Kanuhsa says his message to attendees is to help find ways for Native youth to get more opportunities, especially for those who live in remote areas. “Opening roles for more Native youth. I think Native youth on rural reservations have a hard time maybe connecting to maybe internships, fellowships, maybe just early on new jobs, entry jobs, because of those location barriers.” The Youth Commission co-presidents also touched on safety concerns when it comes to Native people and recent federal immigration actions across the U.S. They also talked about the commission's work this week on Capitol Hill to advocate for funding, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery models for substance abuse. NCAI President Mark Macarro (Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians), who delivered the State of Indian Nations address, followed the youth commission’s remarks by saying young Native people are an important part of NCAI. “In my time here at NCAI, the youth started to say we have a voice, you know, what we have to say matters, and it matters in this moment. And, you know, we took stock of that and been making strides to have them be more inclusive. They’re right and their take on the world or take on issues in Indian Country is different than ours, and so we need to allow ourselves to hear that. but we also need to create those opportunities for us to mentor them.” NCAI’s winter session continues Tuesday with updates from federal agencies including the departments of justice, transportation, and housing. Leaders will also hear from some members of Congress from New Mexico and Washington state. U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids during a 2022 hearing. (Courtesy C-SPAN) The history and effects of Indian boarding schools would be investigated and documented under legislation re-introduced by U.S. Reps. Tom Cole (Chickasaw/R-OK) and Sharice Davids (Ho-Chunk/D-KS). Rep. Davids is one of the first two Native women elected to Congress, and has long spoken of the boarding school era, including on C-SPAN in 2022. “The policies and assimilation practices of the United States had the sole purpose of culturally assimilating American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children in residential boarding schools across the country. Children were coerced and compelled to attend boarding schools away from their home. Many children did not return to their families or their communities. Those that did return lost generations' worth of cultural knowledge, stories and traditions, and communities lost their language keepers, cultural practitioners and future leaders.” H.R. 7325 would establish a commission to investigate and report on the histories of more than 500 federally run boarding schools, which operated between 1819 through the 1970s. President Joe Biden formally apologized for the schools in 2024. British forces under fire from the French and Indian forces at Monongahela, when the Braddock expedition failed to take Fort Duquesne. And on this day in 1763, the French-Indian War officially ended. The armies of France and England wrestled for territory in the Americas, with both sides swaying Native tribes to help their efforts. Some, including the Ojibwe and Winnebago, helped the French, while the Iroquois helped England. While the outcome was favorable for the British, the cost of the war compelled England to raise taxes on the 13 colonies, eventually spurring the American Revolution. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Tuesday, February 10, 2026 – From the child tax credit to paperless refunds: what to know about this year's tax returns

The National Congress of American Indians hosts the State of Indian Nations on February 9, 2026. Speakers Larry Wright, Executive Director, NCAI Jonas Kanuhsa, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Angelina Serna, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Mark Macarro, President, NCAI Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) The State of Indian Nations kicked of NCAI's executive council winter session. The event is taking place in Washington, D.C. More from NCAI: https://www.ncai.org/event/2026-soin

The National Congress of American Indians hosts the State of Indian Nations on February 9, 2026. Speakers Larry Wright, Executive Director, NCAI Jonas Kanuhsa, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Angelina Serna, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Mark Macarro, President, NCAI Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) The State of Indian Nations kicked of NCAI's executive council winter session. The event is taking place in Washington, D.C. More from NCAI: https://www.ncai.org/event/2026-soin

The National Congress of American Indians hosts the State of Indian Nations on February 9, 2026. Speakers Larry Wright, Executive Director, NCAI Jonas Kanuhsa, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Angelina Serna, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Mark Macarro, President, NCAI Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) The State of Indian Nations kicked of NCAI's executive council winter session. The event is taking place in Washington, D.C. More from NCAI: https://www.ncai.org/event/2026-soin

Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland addresses the National Congress of American Indians on February 10, 2026. Kirkland is a citizen of the Navajo Nation. He was confirmed to his post, a political position at the Department of the Interior, on October 7, 2025. In his position, Kirkland oversees the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Indian Education and the Bureau of Trust Funds Administration. Kirkland spoke at NCAI's executive council winter session in Washington, D.C. It was his first appearance at NCAI since being confirmed.

The National Congress of American Indians hosts the State of Indian Nations on February 9, 2026. Speakers Larry Wright, Executive Director, NCAI Jonas Kanuhsa, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Angelina Serna, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Mark Macarro, President, NCAI Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) The State of Indian Nations kicked of NCAI's executive council winter session. The event is taking place in Washington, D.C. More from NCAI: https://www.ncai.org/event/2026-soin

The National Congress of American Indians hosts the State of Indian Nations on February 9, 2026. Speakers Larry Wright, Executive Director, NCAI Jonas Kanuhsa, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Angelina Serna, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Mark Macarro, President, NCAI Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) The State of Indian Nations kicked of NCAI's executive council winter session. The event is taking place in Washington, D.C. More from NCAI: https://www.ncai.org/event/2026-soin

The National Congress of American Indians hosts the State of Indian Nations on February 9, 2026. Speakers Larry Wright, Executive Director, NCAI Jonas Kanuhsa, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Angelina Serna, Co-President, NCAI Youth Commission Mark Macarro, President, NCAI Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) The State of Indian Nations kicked of NCAI's executive council winter session. The event is taking place in Washington, D.C. More from NCAI: https://www.ncai.org/event/2026-soin

The past year has seen Leonard Peltier's release from prison, record revenue from casinos and other economic development, and the addition of a new federally recognized tribe. It is also seen major upheaval in federal funds and staff that directly affect Indian Country. Looking ahead, tribes are navigating the potential loss of lucrative federal contracts and indications that consultation and treaty rights are taking a back seat. We'll get the annual status update from National Congress of American Indians President Mark Macarro. GUEST Dr. Renae Ditmer (Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians), journalist and independent economic development consultant Break 1 Music: Intertribal (song) Blackfoot Confederacy (artist) Confederacy Style (album) Break 2 Music: Taste Of Red Bull [Crow Hop] (song) Cree Confederation (artist) Horse Dance – Mistamim Simoowin (album)

Our region is facing tremendous setbacks for salmon populations and Northwest tribal treaty rights. Fish runs continue to fall short while Indigenous communities bear the brunt of climate change, political polarization, and existential threats to their way of life. Tribes can't overcome these issues alone, but it's not just a matter of finding allies — it's how to get them in the game. The Billy Frank Jr. Salmon Coalition, formed by Salmon Defense, has taken an innovative approach to protect salmon, restore ecosystems, and build climate resilience by uniting unexpected allies, who have often been at odds in the past. ​This diverse coalition includes tribal leaders, scientists, state and local officials, fishers, attorneys, conservation groups, and local industries. Join us on Indigenous Peoples' Day, for a conversation offering a timely reminder that Indigenous knowledge systems are not only vital to climate resiliency but must also be centered in policy-driven solutions. See how cross-cultural dialogue can help foster creativity and how lasting alliances are strengthened by collaboration amongst groups with different viewpoints. Peggen Frank (SeiiNiiSeii) is a leader in salmon conservation, tribal advocacy, and treaty rights protection. Since joining Salmon Defense in 2011, she has helped grow the nonprofit into a powerful conservation organization focused on education, advocacy, and litigation. Her key projects include the Billy Frank Jr. curriculum, a sčədadxʷ (salmon) education video, and the Salmon Warriors campaign. Peggen is an enrolled member of the Northern Arapaho Tribe, born and raised on the Wind River Indian Reservation, and now lives in the homelands of the Nisqually Indian people. As Executive Director of Salmon Defense, Peggen manages the likeness and legacy of Billy Frank Jr., ensuring his influence inspires future generations. Kadi Bizyayeva is the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians vice-chairwoman, fisheries director, and Northwest Indian Fisheries commissioner. She was also appointed to the Washington Salmon Recovery Funding Board by Gov. Jay Inslee. Kadi is passionate about her role protecting and conserving tribal treaty rights and believes in honest co-management and finding common ground. Her experience includes assisting with project oversight and policy guidance, as well as accounting and administration in several roles within the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission and the Stillaguamish Tribes' Natural Resources Department, where she has worked since 2013. Along with her professional roles and achievements, Kadi is also a wife, mother, and a tribal fisher and hunter. Ron Garner is president of the Puget Sound Anglers State Board, a member of the Billy Frank Jr. Salmon Coalition and a key member of the Western Washington sportfishing community. In 2018, he had the rare honor for a nontribal member – let alone a sportfisherman – of attending a Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission meeting. Ron is passionate about advocating for habitat restoration and reconnection in the Stillaguamish River watershed to promote healthy salmon populations, particularly endangered Chinook. His experience also includes serving on several Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife advisory committees and task forces related to marine wildlife. Along with his sportfishing community leadership experience and advocacy, Ron is a self-employed commercial construction business owner. William Frank III served on the Nisqually Tribal Council for many years in several roles, including chairman, and currently serves as chairman of the Wa He Lut Indian School and the Salmon Defense board. He also runs Medicine Creek Tribal Strategies, an independent consulting firm. William is the son of the late Billy Frank Jr., a nationally recognized leader and activist for tribal rights and protecting salmon. His father helped tribes win the landmark 1975 court case that recognized treaty rights and made tribes co-managers of the salmon resource. This court decision completely changed the landscape in Washington after the Fish Wars or 'fish-ins' of the 1960s and 1970s, a series of civil disobedience protests where tribal fishers were arrested, beaten, and jailed for fishing off reservation in their 'usual and accustomed fishing grounds' – as granted by the treaties negotiated in the mid-1800s. As a leader, fisher, and member of the Billy Frank Jr. Salmon Coalition, he carries on his father's legacy of bringing together diverse groups of experts to advocate for salmon and the environment. Cecilia Gobin (dzahdzah'lahk) is a member of the Tulalip Tribes, based in Tulalip, Washington. She is an experienced Policy Analyst, currently working with the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission (NWIFC) where she focuses on the protection and advancement of tribal treaty rights and resources, including habitat protection and salmon recovery. Prior to NWIFC, Cecilia worked in cultural resources for the Tulalip Tribes, and also for the U.S. House of Representatives' House Natural Resources Committee's Office of Indian Affairs, working with policy and legislation related to natural resources and the effects for tribes in Indian Country. She is also a lifetime commercial fisher and remains deeply connected to her community and traditional lifeways. Lisa Wilson has extensive experience in fisheries policy and treaty rights protection. She earned a bachelor's degree in Native Environmental Science from Northwest Indian College, where she produced the documentary Time Immemorial: A Fishing History of the Lummi People as her capstone project. Lisa primarily serves as an elected member of the Lummi Indian Business Council and as vice chair of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. She is also on the Salmon Defense board, co-chairs the Natural Resources Committee for the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians and the Lands and Natural Resources Committee for the National Congress of American Indians and is the former Endangered Species Act manager for Lummi Natural Resources. Presented by Town Hall Seattle and the Billy Frank Jr. Salmon Coalition.

The past year has seen Leonard Peltier's release from prison, record revenue from casinos and other economic development, and the addition of a new federally recognized tribe. It is also seen major upheaval in federal funds and staff that directly affect Indian Country. Looking ahead, tribes are navigating the potential loss of lucrative federal contracts and indications that consultation and treaty rights are taking a back seat. We'll get the annual status update from National Congress of American Indians President Mark Macarro. GUEST Dr. Renae Ditmer (Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians), journalist and independent economic development consultant Break 1 Music: Intertribal (song) Blackfoot Confederacy (artist) Confederacy Style (album) Break 2 Music: Taste Of Red Bull [Crow Hop] (song) Cree Confederation (artist) Horse Dance – Mistamim Simoowin (album)

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

In response to recent concerns raised across Indian Country, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar about Tribal Citizens, Law Enforcement Encounters, and Practical Steps to Stay Safe. The webinar was held January 28,2026, and included an hour of presentation, followed by questions and answers. Speakers: Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Matthew Campbell, Deputy Director, Native American Rights Fund Beth Margaret Wright, Senior Staff Attorney, Native American Rights Fund Leonard Fineday, General Counsel, National Congress of American Indians Know Your Rights: https://narf.org/webinar-know-your-rights/

The Oglala Lakota tribal president banned U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Red Lake Band of Ojibwe officials say ICE can't operate on their Minnesota reservation without prior consultation. A number of tribes are waiving tribal ID fees and reaching out to secure their members' citizenship documents. Dozens of tribes are offering guidance for Native Americans who encounter ICE agents. The actions are part of the response by tribes and prominent Native organizations as more stories surface of Native residents tangling — and even being detained — in the ICE crackdown in Minneapolis and elsewhere. GUESTS Lenny Fineday (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe), general counsel for the National Congress of American Indians Beth Margaret Wright (Laguna Pueblo), senior staff attorney with the Native American Rights Fund Frank Star Comes Out (Oglala Lakota), president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe Break 1 Music: Our Autonomy (song) Klee Benally (artist) Appropriation (album) Break 2 Music: Wahzhazhe (song) Scott George (artist) Killers of the Flower Moon Soundtrack (album)

Photo: A crowd congregates in Mesa, Ariz. where a roadside memorial remembering slain San Carlos Apache teen Emily Pike was taken down nearly a year after she disappeared. (Gabriel Pietrorazio / KJZZ) It was one year ago, on January 27, 2025, that San Carlos Apache teenager Emily Pike went missing from a Mesa, Ariz. group home. Her dismembered remains were discovered a month later in garbage bags more than 100 miles away. No arrests have been made, nor suspects named. Earlier this month, a memorial in Mesa marking where Emily was last seen alive got taken down. As KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio reports, it's the latest rallying cry for justice in the 14-year-old girl's unsolved murder. “Who are we here for?” “Emily Pike.” “Then say her name.” “Emily Pike.” At the corner of Mesa Drive and McKellips Road, dozens of demonstrators met on a recent Saturday as cars drove by honking their horns. “Justice for who?” “Emily Pike.” “Justice for who?” “Emily Pike.” “Who do we love?” “Emily Pike.” “Who do we love?” “Emily Pike.” This is where Emily was last seen alive. Since her disappearance, a chain-link fence hugging the edge of a 28,000-square-foot vacant lot has become home to a roadside memorial for the slain Apache teen. And it just kept on growing as more shared her story. Visitors from near and far have flocked to this bustling intersection, adorned with flowers, stuffed animals, a banner of Emily's face, and lots of red ribbons – each markers of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) movement. That was, until someone suddenly took everything down earlier this month. No matter who did it, Jolene Shorty is still upset. “Look what you guys did. You took down her stuff. There is a respectful way. There is a traditional way to let things go. This is not the way.” For Shorty, she says this is the second tragedy to happen there. “But what I see here my people, what I see here my tribal nations, I see a clean slate, a clean slate to start over. … In a way, they almost helped us. We're going to come back and put up more stuff. We're going to honor them the way we're supposed to.” Delvina Charley (Diné) thinks taking down those mementos adds insult to injury. “This is the respect that we got … we're pushed to the side that our voices meant nothing, that she meant nothing. If this was a different privileged girl, it would have been handled differently.” Since the items were taken down, Emily's family has been in talks with the city of Mesa on planting a tree and placing a bench at Fitch Park – just a few blocks from her last known location. They're also in discussions with the Arizona Department of Transportation about putting up a highway sign honoring Emily at milepost 277 along US 60 near Globe – where her remains were found in the Tonto National Forest. “This girl lost her life thinking nobody cared.” Jared Marquez is San Carlos Apache and treasurer of the Turtle Island Women Warriors. “I've been there, being a 13-year-old kid, never talking to my parents, running around on the reservation, you know, nobody ever truly caring. And it's hard to think what this girl went through – a lot of us could have been through.” As for the investigation into Emily's murder, KJZZ asked the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs' Missing and Murdered Unit, and the lead agency, Gila County Sheriff's Office, for the status but did not receive any updates. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) are hosting a webinar titled “Know Your Rights,” followed by a Q&A on Wednesday. NARF will provide practical guidance for Tribal citizens on interactions with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The organizations say it is in response to growing concerns from across Indian Country. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out the latest episode of Native America Calling Tuesday, January 27, 2026 – The concern over rising American imperialism to Indigenous people abroad and at home

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth says he is taking a “sledgehammer” to a federal program that many tribes and tribal businesses rely on. He is referring to the Small Business Administration's 8(a) Business Development Program that extends contract priorities to disadvantaged business owners. Hegseth uses words like “fraud” and “scheme” to describe what he says is an outdated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiative. His is part of an overall scrutiny of the program by the federal government. Hundreds of Native small businesses have accessed the program over the past 60 years, and some Alaska Native corporations have multi-million dollar contracts. GUESTS Jon Panamaroff (Native Village of Afognak), co-chair of the Native American Contractors Association and CEO of Command Holdings Kevin Allis (Forest County Potawatomi), founder and president of Thunderbird Strategic and former CEO of the National Congress of American Indians Nick Grube, investigative reporter at Honolulu Civil Beat Break 1 Music: Shawnee Stomp Dance (song) Little Axe Singers (artist) Traditional Voices: Historic Recordings of Traditional Native American Music (album) Break 2 Music: Mahaha: Tickling Demon (song) PIQSIQ (artist) Legends (album)

Photo: Youth royalty from the Colorado River Indian Tribes stamp the Ireichō – or Book of Names – in Parker, Ariz. on October 25, 2025. (Gabriel Pietrorazio / KJZZ) The internment of Japanese Americans during World War II is among the chapters of U.S. history that the Trump administration is actively working to erase. It is part of a sweeping campaign to remove so-called “disparaging” signs and markers of the country's past and focus only on “American greatness”. In the final installment of his series on the camps, KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio visits the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) to see how others are making sure victims are highlighted in – not erased from – the history books. Inside a strip mall owned by the tribe, hundreds flock to its museum in Parker, Ariz. Director Valerie Welsh-Tahbo says her space used to be an old swimwear shop. Tucked in one teal-hued corner is an exhibit dedicated to the Poston camp's 18,000 internees.  “This was already up here, this structure in this store and I said, ‘Let's hang onto this … just because of where it was situated, and that design, it just spawned that idea.” To honor Poston's past. another way the museum is paying respect is by welcoming Soto Zen Buddhist priest Duncan Ryūken Williams and his Ireichō. “Chō, chō means like a book or a registry, and so we created a book with everybody's names in it, and said, ‘How do we honor everyone?' And we came up with this idea of stamping or placing this mark under people's names.” The Japanese word Irei essentially means “to console the spirits”, and that's what Wiliams hopes his book does by bringing forth personhood and dignity – one name at a time. “A lot of government camp rosters mangle Japanese names, and so we can't honor people if their names are misspelled.” And their goal? “To make sure all 125,284 people whose names are printed in this book get at least one mark of acknowledgement.” There's still 30,000 names unmarked, but Williams has a plan. “We'll just systematically, from the beginning of the book, invite the general public to come and place a mark under the next name in the sequence of names that doesn't yet have a mark.” “I think this person – Hisayo Kotsubo – does not yet have a stamp. She's born in the year 1897 so if I could ask you to just place this stamp right under the letter H.” Their blue-tipped stamp is no bigger than your thumb. Some even practiced that art of dotting with Susan Kamei. “It's a personal story.” Her parents, grandparents, and one set of great-grandparents were internees. Her dad's side was brought to Poston, while her mom's ended up in Heart Mountain, Wyo. “I try to put myself in their shoes.” 84-year-old Janet Brothers doesn't have to imagine, because she lived it. “I was here at camp as a baby. I was six months old … feeling the heat, looking around, and seeing the desert and the mountains, knowing that's what my parents saw every day, was very emotional for me.” The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is remembering the life of former U.S. Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (Northern Cheyenne/R-CO), who died Tuesday at age 92. NCAI President Mark Macarro in a statement said Campbell broke barriers and left a path for those who seek to follow as leaders in Indian Country and in America. Sen. Campbell is being remembered for his work on Indian policy and elevating Indian Country issues, serving on the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The Associated Press reports, his daughter said Campbell died of natural causes surround by family. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Wednesday, December 31, 2025 – Memorable moments in Native film and TV in 2025

Ben Smith, the acting director of the Indian Health Service, addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Smith is a citizen of the Navajo Nation. He is a career employee of the IHS, previously serving as deputy director of the agency, which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services. Smith spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Davids is a citizen of the Ho-Chunk Nation. She is the only Democratic tribal member in the U.S. House of Representatives. Davids delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Schatz serves as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for the 119th Congress. He delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Murkowski serves as chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for the 119th Congress. She delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 21, 2025. Mullin, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, is the only Native American in the U.S. Senate. He serves on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. Mullin delivered a video message at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

James Crawford, Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs at the Department of Transportation, addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Crawford is a citizen of the Forest County Potawatomi Community, a federally recognized tribe in Wisconsin. He is the second person to serve as Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs, a position that was created by an act of Congress. Crawford spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Deb Haaland, the Democratic candidate for governor of New Mexico, addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Haaland is a citizen of the Pueblo of Laguna, a federally recognized tribe in New Mexico. She was the first Native person to serve in a presidential cabinet, having been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the first Native person to lead the Department of the Interior. She also was one of the first two Native women to serve in the U.S. Congress. Haaland spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Mark Cruz, Senior Adviser to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Cruz is a citizen of the Klamath Tribes, headquartered in Oregon. He advises Secretary Kennedy on Indian policy issues at the Department of Health and Human Services. Cruz spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

United States Treasurer Brandon Beach addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Beach was appointed to his position at the Department of the Treasury by President Donald Trump. He began service on May 5, 2025. Beach spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Peggy Flanagan addresses the National Congress of American Indians on November 17, 2025. Flanagan is a citizen of the White Earth Nation, a federally recognized tribe in Minnesota. She is the first Native person to serve as Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota. She is the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Minnesota, seeking to be the first Native woman in the chamber. Flanagan spoke at NCAI's 82nd annual convention in Seattle, Washington.

Tribal officials are among those pushing back against President Donald Trump's plan to cut off some $500 million dollars in federal funds used for tribal housing, business development and infrastructure projects. The National Congress of American Indians calls the action by Trump related to the federal government shutdown “a critical threat to our communities' economic future.” Trump's intended elimination of the Treasury Department's Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund is the latest blow from the government shutdown that could have series consequences for Native Nations. GUESTS Larry Wright Jr. (Ponca), executive director of the National Congress of American Indians and former chairman of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Sherry Rupert (Paiute and Washoe), CEO of the American Indigenous Tourism Association Kim Pate (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Mississippi Band of Choctaw), NDN Fund Managing Director Dave Tovey (Cayuse/Joseph Band Nez Perce), Executive Director of Nixyáawii Community Financial Services (NCFS)

From June 7, 2023: On January 1, 2023, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was sworn in as president of Brazil. A week later, insurrectionists in Brazil stormed government buildings, including the president's palace, the Supreme Federal Court, and the National Congress building to violently disrupt the democratic transition of power and challenge the results of the election. Lula, however, remained undeterred and forged ahead. It's been roughly 150 days since those events, and Lawfare Legal Fellow Saraphin Dhanani sat down with Brian Winter, Editor-in-Chief of Americas Quarterly and a journalist with over a decade of experience living and reporting across Latin America, to discuss how Lula has fared in his first 100 days in office, his vision for reviving Brazil's place in the world, and the political forces he's up against. To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.