Embassy = early warning system

Embassy Dedicated in Advance of Conference

By Victor MerinaCiting the painful historical dealings with the federal government, she said the new embassy was needed as a place where tribal leaders can work together on issues—and where they can learn about potentially damaging legislation or policies so they could find ways to avert them.

During her prayer, Ransom praised the NCAI staff and said one of the benefits of having a tribal embassy is so staff members can "notify the nations when unfavorable elements are planned in D.C."

Afterward, when asked what she meant, she spoke of budget cuts from past administrations and damaging inserts to bills on Capitol Hill, placed during "midnight meetings," that have harmed Native people.

"When Indian chiefs came a long time ago to the White House, they would be treated tin grand style and be appeased and then just leave town," she said. "Not anymore."Comment:  For more on the subject, see NCAI to Open Embassy of Tribal Nations and NCAI Moves to Embassy Row.

Below:  "Alma Ransom of the Mohawk Bear Clan led the blessing of the new Embassy of Tribal Nations on Tuesday, Nov. 3." (Reznet photo by Victor Merina)