Build tribal partnerships with the leaders of the 23 Native nations.

Self-determination refers to the inherent right of Native nations to shape their own futures according to their own designs, from governmental form to governing principles, from development of strategic direction to administrative procedures, from civic engagement to relationships with other governments, from how they address disputes to how to develop emerging and current leaders. Native leaders have long asserted that self-determination is the key to creating effective tribal governments, and research has shown this to be true. Our approach must be consistent with our goal, in that we will respect the sovereignty of Native nations and will collaborate with each nation’s chosen leaders on its individual agenda for self-determination.

Engage resource partners who can support the tribes with expertise, tools and training.

Nation-building is the process by which Native nations put in place the appropriate institutions and procedures that are required for effective self-governance and for the development of self-determined strategies to build community and promote the public good. We are engaging with partners, like the Native Nations Institute, to support nation-building efforts with expertise, tools and training.

Facilitate an alliance of tribal leaders across the 23 nations.

The Foundation hosts an annual convening of the leaders of the 23 Native nations so they may share their successes and challenges in the process of nation-building.

Facilitate partnerships between tribal governments and other governments to collaborate on cross-boundary issues and problem solving.

Past approaches have been dominated by outside entities setting the agendas and outcomes for Native nations. As tribes request our assistance, we will facilitate partnerships between tribal governments and other governments to collaborate on finding solutions to common issues.