Tribal Leaders Urge Arizona Legislators to Unite for Collective Progress

On Wednesday, tribal leaders from Arizona gathered to emphasize the significance of partnerships between state and tribal governments during the annual Indian Nations and Tribes Legislative Day at the Capitol. This engagement highlighted the potential collaboration on essential public issues, from gaming compacts to water security.

Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis addressed the Arizona Senate, stating, “The issues we’re bringing up should be nonpartisan and involve collaborative efforts.” He stressed that the success of tribal initiatives stems from a cooperative relationship with the state.

Lewis noted, “Every tribe in Arizona has examples of fruitful partnerships to address issues benefiting all Arizonans.” He expressed optimism about future collaborations, citing the enduring innovation that tribal nations have demonstrated for generations.

Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation President Sandra Pattea reiterated the importance of unity among diverse leaders. “We share a common purpose to leave our communities better than we found them,” she remarked, advocating for continued respectful dialogue.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the legislative day brought together Indigenous leaders, community members, and organizations, all with the aim of influencing legislative priorities. Speakers, including Lewis and Pattea, addressed a packed Senate chamber, emphasizing the contributions of Arizona’s 22 tribal nations to the state’s economic and social fabric.

Speaker of the House Steve Montenegro emphasized the transformative role tribes play in Arizona. He cited their contributions to job creation, revenue generation, and decision-making in critical areas such as energy and water. “This gathering reflects the strong partnership between the state and tribal communities,” he stated.

Senate President Warren Petersen echoed this sentiment, expressing eagerness to explore more collaborative opportunities. Indigenous people comprise 6% of Arizona’s population, with key issues such as water rights, voting access, and the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous individuals at the forefront of discussions.

Pattea highlighted historical successes, recalling how tribal members from the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation secured voting rights in 1948. Despite ongoing challenges to voting access, she affirmed their commitment to educating and encouraging participation in all levels of elections.

The legislative day served as a vital platform for resource-sharing and discussion on priorities. Jason Chavez from Governor Katie Hobbs’ Office on Tribal Relations noted the event’s growth, drawing over 1,000 attendees—significantly more than previous years. “It’s an incredible moment to witness tribes coming together,” he said, emphasizing the unified voice advocating for their collective priorities.

Navajo Nation Speaker Crystalyne Curley also expressed her support for collaboration, specifically regarding her community’s legislative priorities. With three representatives in the state legislature, the Navajo Nation focuses on tax parity, education, and voting issues.

Curley stated, “This legislative day helps us engage with state leaders on critical bills.” The participation of state legislators from both parties reflects respect for Arizona’s tribal nations, according to Lewis. Through his years of leadership, he emphasized the necessity for tribes to safeguard their interests while seeking common ground for effective solutions.

Lewis cited recent success in funding the widening of Interstate 10, which traverses tribal lands, as an example of effective state-tribal collaboration. “It was only when we developed a closer collaboration that our efforts bore fruit,” he affirmed, urging all leaders to jointly tackle transportation challenges.

Moreover, tribal leaders discussed the importance of water rights, advocating for future settlements like the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024. Colorado River Indian Tribes Chairwoman Amelia Flores highlighted their recent water settlement, which enables the tribe to manage its water resources effectively. “CRIT will protect our water rights,” she declared, underscoring the commitment to safeguard vital resources.