Indian Affairs engages tribal leaders at RES 2026 in Las Vegas

Indian Affairs leadership participated in the Reservation Economic Summit in Las Vegas, Nevada, from March 23-25, 2026, meeting with tribal leaders and organizations from across Indian Country to discuss priorities related to economic development, self-governance and sovereignty.

Throughout the summit, tribal leaders shared key issues impacting their communities and identified opportunities for coordination with the Department of the Interior.

During the summit, Indian Affairs met with tribal leaders on a range of priorities impacting their communities. Discussions included expanding self-governance authority for mineral development with the Jicarilla Apache Nation and addressing concerns from the Ute Indian Tribe regarding federal actions affecting tribal sovereignty. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina sought guidance on accessing federal programs following recognition, while the Muwekma tribe shared updates on its federal recognition efforts. The Table Mountain Rancheria highlighted economic development plans and concerns about impacts to cultural resources. The Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) raised funding and reimbursement needs, and the San Xavier Allottees Association discussed delays related to a right-of-way issue. The Northern Cheyenne Tribe addressed challenges accessing approved funds, and Agua Caliente leadership provided updates on progress toward a long-standing water settlement. Representatives of the Haudenosaunee lacrosse program also requested federal support for international recognition ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.

Indian Affairs remains committed to working in partnership with tribes and federal partners to advance these priorities. Through continued coordination with the Office of the Solicitor and the Office of Self Governance, Indian Affairs will support tribal leaders in exercising their sovereignty and ensuring they have the authority and flexibility to make decisions about the use and management of their own lands.