November 5, 2009

Washington, DC – Today, President Barack Obama held a Tribal Nations Conference to meet with tribal leaders from across the country to discuss tribal issues and show support of a strong government-to-government relationship with tribal nations. Rep. Ben Ray Luján attended the opening session of the Tribal Nations Conference. Rep. Luján represents New Mexico’s Third Congressional District, home to 16 pueblos, the Navajo Nation and the Jicarilla Apache. He issued the following statement on the Tribal Nations Conference.

“I grew up in Nambe, a small community that is nestled between two Pueblos. My family has always treasured and respected the unique history and heritage of New Mexico and of our tribal neighbors. And in Congress, I have fought for Indian people and worked to build strong government-to-government relationships. I am encouraged by today’s Tribal Nations Conference, and I am pleased that President Obama has expressed support of strong government-to-government relationships and sovereignty. I look forward to working with the Administration to protect sovereignty, build stronger government-to-government relationships and fight for Indian people throughout New Mexico and across the country.”