NIGA Chairman Endorses State of Indian Nations Address

Feb. 15, 2013 - PRLog -- Washington, DC (February 15, 2013) – Jefferson Keel, President of the National Congress of American Indians delivered the annual State of Indian Nations Address on Thursday, February 14, 2013 from Washington, DC.

The State of Indian Nations address, which was scheduled for 10:30 a.m. EST, was hosted at the Newseum in Washington, DC for a live television broadcast. As is tradition, the State of Indian Nations address is scheduled just days after the United States President delivers the State of the Union.

National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr., who sat along other tribal dignitaries and appointed government officials, said this of the Address:

“President Keel’s address was very powerful and provides encouragement for all of indian Country. His message of 'strength' reinforces everything Indian country stands for: protection of tribal sovereignty, securing our communities, securing our nations, and securing our future. It is clear that we are united in our efforts in Washington.

“The State of Indian Nations concluded a very busy week in DC. A large amount of tribal leaders spent the week meeting with the administration and visiting the Capitol Hill. It is a significant knowing that many of our tribal leaders are walking together including several newly elected tribal officials who are continuing this momentum.”

The NCAI’s Secure Our Future is a transparent report that has been compiled in collaboration with tribal leaders, Native organizations, and tribal budget consultation bodies. This report, with support of tribal citizens and organizations likeNIGA, is a profile of the current state of trust responsibility and support tribal economic security and prosperity.

To download a report, please go to www.ncai.org