Each November, we recognize National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month and celebrate the heritage and culture of those that originally inhabited this country. Representing a state that is home to nine treaty tribes, this month takes on added importance for me. I’ve worked closely with many throughout Indian Country over the years, and we’ve faced many challenges and seen progress being made to improve our communities.


Our tribes are working to break the cycle of poverty and dependency that is found all too often across Indian Country. They are employing innovative business models and putting programs in place that improve local economies. I’m pleased to see the progress tribes are making, and fully support these economic ventures, including the exploration of renewable energy. With the right tools, tribes will be able to reach their goals and continue to develop new ones.


That’s why it’s so important that the State of South Dakota created a new cabinet level agency this year, the Department of Tribal Relations. The creation of this department strengthens the relationship between the state and our tribes. With South Dakota having the third largest Native American population per capita in the country, a strong relationship is absolutely vital. The Department of Tribal Relations is providing an open door for tribes to address the pressing needs in Indian Country and helping to strengthen this relationship.


As sovereign nations, tribes are given the ability to be self-sufficient and empowered, but this does not mean that the federal government is free from its treaty and trust responsibilities. I’m working to make sure the federal government is living up to this responsibility. Whether it’s supporting funding for rehabilitating and reconstructing aging schools, cutting red tape to spur economic development or improving health care services, I will continue fighting to make sure Indian Country does not get left behind in this tough budget environment.


Earlier this month, I called a Banking Committee hearing to examine the economic opportunities and challenges faced by Native American communities around the country. Fostering small business growth is a vital step toward increasing employment opportunities and improving local economies throughout the country during these difficult economic times.  Small business growth in Indian Country is no exception.  It’s clear that our state is home to many small business owners, community development financial institutions, community banks and credit unions, and dedicated public servants working every day to improve the economic climate on tribal lands.


As National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month continues, we should all pause and recognize the strong contributions our tribes have made to our state and nation. I want to personally honor each of the tribes: Cheyenne River Sioux, the Crow Creek Sioux, the Flandreau Santee Sioux, the Lower Brule Sioux, the Oglala Sioux, the Rosebud Sioux, the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the Standing Rock Sioux, and the Yankton Sioux.  The rich heritage of each of these tribes is an integral part of our state’s character.