- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
Don’t miss this special episode of Native Bidaské! Join Levi Rickert, editor of Native News Online, as he interviews Dr. Aaron Payment, a tribal council member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe with decades of leadership in tribal and national roles. The discussion centers on the 50th anniversary of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, which falls on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
They discuss whether it’s a "celebration" or an "ongoing effort."
Dr. Payment also highlights the critical need for continuous advocacy, emphasizing treaty and trust obligations, improving graduation rates, and addressing the underfunding of Indian Health Services. He also calls for increased and mandatory funding, as well as equity in the Affordable Care Act by eliminating the means test. The conversation includes reflections on Secretary Deb Haaland’s historic tenure as the first Native American to serve in a presidential cabinet and the importance of ongoing implementation and funding to address the impacts of forced assimilation. Dr. Payment shares his expertise on federal Indian policy, historical trauma, and the fight for tribal sovereignty and treaty rights.
Tune in to Native Bidaské LIVE on Saturday, January 4th at 12 EST on Native News Online's Facebook or YouTube channel.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsNative News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Native News Weekly (January 4, 2025): D.C. Briefs
16 Indian Affairs Bills Passed the Senate, More Than $15 Billion Invested in Native Communities in 2024
MHA Nation and Native Voters Argue for Voters' Protections from Politician Gerrymandering
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.
No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.
