New Deal for Indians?

Indians hold special hopes for ObamaThroughout the Democratic National Convention, a wish echoed time and again by Indian attendees is that Obama will pave a path for a "New Deal" for all Native Americans and tribes.

A crucial part of this New Deal centers on Obama's promise to create a position for a White House advisor on Indian affairs and his proposal to continue meeting with tribal leaders if he is elected, just as he has done throughout the election season to date. Both promises have already made their way into the official Democratic Party platform, which focuses on accomplishments party leaders want to make happen over the next four years.

Younger Indians, especially, have been willing to speak out on Obama's unique traits--a unique situation, certainly, since young people overall tend to be less engaged in politics.

"I think Native American people, especially our elders, have been really disappointed for a long time with our government," said Shere Wright, 26, holder of the Miss Indian Nations title. "Because of that, a lot of people on reservations don't ever really take part in the political process.

"But I think that's changing. Barack Obama is inspiring people. My mom even registered to vote in the primary this year for the first time...."Comment:  For more on the subject, see Tribal Leaders for Obama.