Podcast: Play in new window | Download (27.0MB) | Embed
Republicans muscled a bill through the U.S. House of Representatives that would give tribes more control over how to use resources on tribal land. The Native American Energy Act (H.R.538) affords tribes more sovereignty when it comes to drilling for gas and oil or mining coal. It streamlines the clearance process by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye said the bill “will help our people regain governance over resources on our own lands.” The White House and nearly all Democrats in Congress oppose the bill. Do you think a clearer path to energy resources development is a good idea? What controls should tribes consider to protect the environment?
Guests:
Jackson Brossy (Diné) — executive director for the Navajo Nation Washington Office
Colleen Cooley (Diné) — community organizer with Dine Citizens Against Ruining our Environment
Kandi Mossett (Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara) – with the Indigenous Environmental Network
Break Music: Mahk Jchi (song) Pura Fe (artist) Full Moon Rising (album)
