Join us this week as we discuss crucial issues concerning tribal lands, sovereignty, and property rights in Indian Country. Joined by Kitcki Carroll and Liz Malerba from the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET), the conversation sheds light on the complex challenges faced by U.S. tribal nations, particularly focusing on the importance of land for tribal communities. The discussion explores topics such as the significance of land in tribal governance, cultural preservation, economic development, and the inherent rights of indigenous peoples. Through insightful analysis and firsthand experiences, the episode emphasizes the need for accurate historical education, the recognition of tribal governments' sovereign status, and the collective commitment to fostering equity, justice, and meaningful collaboration between tribal nations and the United States.

[0:06] - This podcast marks the first collaboration with another organization.

[1:14] - Today’s guests introduce themselves and share some background information.

[2:48] - Kitcki explains what USET is.

[5:59] - USET advocates for national policies benefiting tribal nations, focusing on education and awareness.

[9:08] - Why does land hold such importance to the USET tribes?

[12:26] - Liz emphasizes reclamation without taking land from others.

[15:51] - Kitcki advocates for full recognition of rights and unrestricted land use.

[18:22] - Kitcki highlights the complexity of current quasi-sovereignty models.

[19:34] - What is USET’s ultimate goal?

[22:29] - Addressing systemic bias requires challenging narratives, educating about tribal nations' history and rights, and collectively fostering equity and justice.

[24:32] - Liz and Kitcki counter biases in federal Indian policy through diplomacy, demanding change.

[27:11] - Liz asserts that comparison between Holocaust Museum's to the Museum of the American Indian reveals U.S. struggles in acknowledging historical atrocities.

[29:42] - Kitcki points out that USET’s uniqueness lies in its willingness to challenge long established narratives.

[32:13] - Kitcki adds that a lack of accurate historical education interferes with meaningful conversations; reform and genuine discussions are necessary.

[35:15] - It’s crucial that we properly educate future generations.

[37:47] - Understanding the complex history can be daunting, but we need to aim for a future in which the U.S. fulfills its obligations to native people.

[39:19] - USET advocates for diplomatic solutions, aiming for self-governance and recognition of rights in future generations.

[42:57] - Liz argues that tribal land restoration is complex, involving surveys, federal guidelines, and bureaucratic hurdles.

[45:40] - Land acquisition advocacy requires adequate federal funding; it's imperative to address funding gaps for tribal land restoration.

[47:44] - Land restoration for tribal nations emphasizes resisting external interference and ensuring economic rebuilding opportunities.

[51:52] - Land loss, especially sacred sites, poses challenges in balancing progress and preserving culture.

[53:29] - One such challenge lies in pursuing progress and growth while preserving cultural identity.

[56:59] - Liz adds that tribal nations face challenges in protecting sacred sites during infrastructure development.

[58:37] - Federal agencies and archaeologists often dismiss the significance of sacred sites; it's important that we respect both cultural heritage and environmental concerns.

[1:01:44] - Kitcki explains why understanding constitutional complexities and federal Indian law is vital.

[1:05:56] - One’s identity and sense of home can be closely linked to land.

[1:06:52] - Acknowledging tribal government status unites Native people, emphasizing the importance of collective recognition.

[1:08:59] - Kitcki stresses the importance of shifting mindsets.

[1:11:58] - Kitcki lists off some helpful resources for listeners.

[1:13:45] - USET advocates for meaningful engagement, shifting from consultation to consent.

[1:15:36] - Kitcki adds that the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples underscores the importance of understanding native rights globally.