1st Government-to-Government Consultation Policy to be signed

Media Contact: Nedra Darling, OPA-IA Phone: 202-208-3710
For Immediate Release: December 8, 2000

The Bureau of Indian Affairs will hold a historic signing ceremony to formalize consultation procedures for the agency, as to agency actions effecting the 558 federally recognized tribes. The procedures establish guidelines to be used by the Bureau of Indian Affairs when consulting with the tribes on policy, regulatory statutes and executive orders. The ceremony is being held on December 13, 2000 at the Daybreak Star Center, Discovery Park in Seattle, Washington.

Although the Government-to-Government relationship is not new, a formal policy on consultation will assist each party in eliminating misunderstandings and misgivings. It is vital to the government-to-government relationship that all contacts and consultation with Indian tribal leaders be conducted in a professional and respectful manner and in accordance with the guidelines.

What: Government-to-Government Consultation Policy Signing Ceremony

Where: Daybreak Star Center, Discovery Park, Seattle, Washington

When: December 13, 2000 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

A traditional Salmon Luncheon will be held at Noon

The Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Public Information. 202-208-3710