Tribal leaders reflect on a year of uncertainty - and possibility - High Country News

"Indigenous communities have seen dramatic changes, from rescinding land-management policies that were more inclusive of Indigenous knowledge to reducing $1.5 billion in climate funding for tribal initiatives."

"Tribal leaders described the haphazard changes that affected their funding and staffing amid an atmosphere of uncertainty, but a few also mentioned a sense of possibility."

"While some changes have caused irrevocable community harm, there are also unexpected opportunities within the disruption - opportunities to reflect, remember their elders and to make new choices with the generations to come in mind."

"The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation recommended that FERC follow the law and conduct a culturally appropriate consultation after the refusal to consult with the Yakama Nation."

Indigenous communities have experienced significant changes under the second Trump administration, including the rollback of inclusive land-management policies and reduced climate funding. Tribal leaders reported uncertainty regarding funding and staffing, but some see opportunities for reflection and future choices. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's refusal to consult with the Yakama Nation led to intervention by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, emphasizing the need for culturally appropriate consultations. In 2024, Amelia Marchand's appointment marked a historic moment as the first woman appointed to an Indigenous seat by a U.S. president.

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