“The National Indian Health Board supports Congresswoman Deb Haaland as President-elect Joe Biden’s pick to lead the Department of the Interior. It is clear that the new Administration is making good on their promises for a diverse Cabinet that focuses on equity across all agencies. NIHB believes that Congresswoman Deb Haaland has proven leadership, understanding and compassion for Indian Country and America that is evident in her bipartisan approach in her work in Congress. NIHB sees Congresswoman Haaland as an ally and a warrior for our people who is ready to lead in an elevated position that represents all Americans. Our Native youth are witnessing history and her nomination sends a message to our young people that they too can dream big and realize them. Congresswoman Haaland is a fierce leader, and NIHB looks forward to continuing our work with her.”
If confirmed by the Senate, Congresswoman Haaland, who is from the Pueblos of Laguna and Jemez in New Mexico, would make history again by becoming the first Native American to serve as a Cabinet secretary. The Congresswoman made history in 2018 when she was one of two Native women ever elected to Congress.
The Department of the Interior oversees the Nation’s natural resources and public lands, which are inherently Tribal land, and honors the Nation’s trust responsibilities or special commitments to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and affiliated island communities to help them prosper.
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Established by the Tribes to advocate as the united voice of federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes, NIHB seeks to reinforce Tribal sovereignty, strengthen Tribal health systems, secure resources, and build capacity to achieve the highest level of health and well-being for our People.
