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Tribal Leadership from Other States:

“There is a vast reservoir of knowledge about activities and programs within the state government as well as interactions between the state and federal governments. Finding the right office and point of contact for any specific issue is often challenging.” – Alabama

“Individuals that understand Tribes […] have the ability to make changes with the Governor directly.” – California

“While it’s good to have a rep in the Governor’s Office, the disconnect comes in either House and how they interact with Tribes.” – Kansas and Illinois

What do you believe to be important to the establishment, organization, and management of a Tribal State Relations Office?: “Consultation. Inclusiveness. Having the tribes at the forefront when it comes to issues that may directly affect our communities. We are here and willing to be a partner with our other stakeholders.” – Nevada

Tribal State Relations Offices from Other States:

“While our current position in the state government hierarchy provides contact with and access to some initiatives and issues relevant to Native American community members and tribes in [State], it does not promote or facilitate state-to-state relation between the Native American Tribes of [State] with the State in a meaningful way. Our current position under the Division of Historical Preservation, whether intentionally or not, positions Native American peoples of [State] and work related to them to be of the past or only related to the past rather than the current day and the future. It has the capacity to narrow the scope of our work and influence on exclusively historical and cultural initiatives when the work and perspectives of Native people should be an integral aspect of all sectors of government.” – Division of Historical Preservation Office

What are the biggest challenges your office has faced?: “Building a larger team to assist in the needs of the Tribes. Having a budget for programming, grants, and a larger scholarship fund.” – Governor’s Office

“Being administratively attached to the Governor's Office has certain drawbacks: budget, staff, visibility.” – Governor’s Office

“I believe that Indigenous affairs should be given higher priority in our state for several compelling reasons. The current low emphasis limits our ability to advocate effectively for initiatives that could benefit both the state and Native populations.” – Constituent Service Agency

“I believe having its own dept at a cabinet level best demonstrates government to government relationship.” – Lieutenant Governor’s Office

“It is important for each incoming administration to decide how this office is going to run, and who will be in charge. My office is suffering from not knowing exactly how to work with one another.” – Department of Administration

Community Members:

“A permanent office could establish clearer guidelines for collaboration between local governments and Tribes, ensuring jurisdictions and responsibilities are understood. Education on Tribal governance and sovereignty is crucial to prevent recurring issues, like disputes over natural resource management.” – White Earth Nation

“A permanent Tribal-State Relations Office could transform the relationship between the state and Tribes by serving as a central hub for coordination, education, and accountability. It would reduce the burden on Tribal nations to educate state departments, ensuring that staff understand tribal sovereignty, cultural protocols, and the unique opportunities for collaboration. However, the office must ensure its purpose is clear and not act as a barrier to ongoing progress in areas like education or MMIW efforts. A transparent, inclusive process with regular updates and accessible opportunities for Tribal participation will be essential to its success.” – Native Governance Center

“Food sovereignty and access to healthy, traditional foods are central to our mission. A Tribal-State Relations Office could unify efforts statewide, connect Indigenous growers, and expand resources for traditional practices like foraging and land stewardship. Creating sustainable support systems for Indigenous foodways is essential for community well-being and cultural preservation.” – Four Sisters Farmers Market

“Urban Native communities face significant safety and public health challenges, such as fentanyl abuse and unsheltered homelessness. The Tribal State Relations Office could play a critical role by unifying efforts across jurisdictions, advocating for resources, and creating culturally relevant programs that address these issues while preserving and uplifting urban Native culture." – Minneapolis American Indian Center

"The office should prioritize protecting our natural resources, such as the Mississippi Watershed, which impacts both drinking water and wild rice harvesting. Additionally, economic opportunities for Tribes should extend beyond gaming to include trade missions and broader state economic projects." – Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe

“Urban Indigenous populations often compete for limited resources with Tribes, despite serving many of their members. The Tribal-State Relations Office could advocate for equitable funding, educate policymakers about urban Native needs, and ensure consistent engagement that respects and supports our distinct community.” – Division of Indian Work