A Different Path Forward

Initially, both the academy and the statehouses responded positively to the 1975 federal adoption of a policy that moved away from paternalistic practices toward tribal self-rule, cultural survival and economic development Legislators at both state and federal levels - recognizing a long history of neglect and discrimination against their indigenous residents - established commissions and councils to help address the needs of those residents and advocate for their rights. Future INENAS activities will bring tribal leaders to campus in a variety of forums to identify ways to help their constituents strengthen their communities, to educate other individuals and groups about matters of interest to the Native peoples of New England, and seek ways to help Native peoples to work collaboratively with others - especially members of state legislative bodies.