December 11: 5 Things You Need to Know This Week

Photo of the Week: NAFOA is honored to be the recent recipient of the American Indian Chamber of Commerce 2023 Warrior Award! [pictured: 1st Vice President VaRene Martin accepting the award on behalf of NAFOA]

1. ICYMI: PRESIDENT BIDEN SIGNS HISTORIC EXECUTIVE ORDER TO USHER IN THE NEXT ERA OF TRIBAL SELF-DETERMINATION

The Executive Order affirms that Tribal self-governance is about the fundamental right of a people to determine their own destiny and to prosper and flourish on their own terms. It also affirms that Tribal governments must be treated as permanent, equal, and vital parts of America’s overlapping system of government. To fulfill this promise, the Executive Order:

  • Requires federal agencies to take action to ensure federal funding for Tribes is accessible, flexible, and equitable.
  • Creates a one-stop-shop for federal funding available to Tribes.
  • Better embraces trust responsibilities by assessing unmet federal obligations to support Tribal Nations. 

Source: White House


2. FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: APPLY FOR 2024 NAFOA LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

The NAFOA Leadership Summit is a unique opportunity for Native American young professionals ages 21-27 to enhance their leadership skills, engage with industry experts, and build a network of like-minded peers. This immersive program empowers emerging leaders interested in tribal governance, economic development, and the business and finance sectors. 

Join a cohort of like-minded young professionals this Spring at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Florida. This exclusive opportunity for a select few Native young leaders provides transformative professional growth and the chance to establish lasting connections with peers, tribal leaders, and industry professionals.

Applications are due by Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time.


3. FOR TRIBES: TODAY! STRENGTHENING TRIBAL CONSULTATION AND ENGAGEMENT WITH TRIBAL LEADERS

Monday, December 11, 2023, from 1:00-2:30 p.m. ET – virtual consultation on updating Department of Energy’s (DOE) order and policy governing Tribal consultation and engagement

The deadline for written comments has been extended to January 31, 2024. Written comments should be sent to tribalconsultation@hq.doe.gov.

In the coming months, DOE will finalize a revision of its Order and Policy to support the Department’s increased government-to-government engagement with Tribal governments. DOE looks forward to engaging with Tribal governments on how the provisions included in the Presidential Memorandum on Uniform Standards for Tribal Consultation should be implemented prior to the revision of the Department’s current Order and Policy.

Source: DOE, Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs


4. GIVING SEASON: INVEST IN THE FUTURE OF TRIBAL ECONOMIES

Give Native this Giving Season! While we’re grateful for the support of our community so far this giving season, we acknowledge there’s still a distance to cover in reaching our goal to support the 2024 Leadership Summit.

If you haven’t contributed yet, there’s still an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Your tax-exempt donation, no matter the amount, plays a crucial role in enabling us to offer opportunities and resources for Native American young professionals.

You can donate at any time, from now until December 31st, to assist us in achieving our target of $7,500 and expanding our Leadership Summit program!


5. JOBS: BIG VALLEY RANCHERIA SEEKING CONTROLLER

Under the supervision of the CFO, this is a hands-on position providing support to the fiscal department staff consisting of staff accountant, accounts payable, and payroll. The Controller will take an active role in daily and monthly accounting transactions and will manage the General Ledger, ensuring the accuracy of postings by performing and supervising reconciliations on a regular basis. Provide technical accounting, budget and other administrative support for contract and grant programs of the Big Valley Rancheria, including monitoring, tracking, and maintaining current draw down of funds.

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