U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) on July 8 applauded U.S. President Donald Trump’s proclamation recognizing a 1970 speech by former President Richard Nixon that led to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) being signed into law in 1975.
“Fifty years ago, President Richard Nixon sparked a policy movement that ultimately led to the passage of monumental legislation in Congress, changing the course of the federal government’s relationship with tribal nations for the better,” said Rep. Cole, a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and co-chairman of the Native American Caucus.
“Those bold efforts to reassert, recognize and celebrate tribal sovereignty and self-determination have indeed made America stronger,” he said.
Nixon in his 1970 message applauded “the adaptability and creativity of Native Americans” facing overwhelming obstacles, and praised their contributions to the nation through art, culture, resilience, and spirit, while embracing strong tribal governments and respecting tribal decision making, according to Trump’s proclamation.
Building on that momentum, Congress passed and former President Gerald Ford signed into law the ISDEAA, which led to the establishment of an Indian civil service and a recognition of tribal institutions through contracting and compacting between the federal government and tribes, the proclamation says.
The Trump administration has taken “historic measures to build upon the legacy of the ISDEAA” via initiatives that are “developing and implementing an aggressive, government-wide strategy, working with tribal leaders to combat the crisis of missing and murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives — especially women and children,” according to the proclamation.
“Building on the progress started five decades ago, I am encouraged that efforts are still being made to improve the lives, safety and well-being of Native Americans,” Rep. Cole said. “While there is still work to do, I am proud that President Donald Trump not only recognizes and respects the constitutional rights of tribal nations, but he is actively helping empower, assist and preserve Indian Country. When Indian Country thrives, America thrives.”