Anthony Bonville
Third Committee Advisor
New York, New York
October 11, 2021
AS DELIVERED
Today is “Indigenous People’s Day” in the United States. Today we reflect on and celebrate Tribal sovereignty, Native resilience, and commit to addressing the historic and current barriers Native American peoples face.
Domestically, President Biden’s June 2021 Executive Order commits the U.S. government to “recruit, hire, develop, promote, and strengthen our Nation’s talent and remove barriers to equal opportunity.”
The Department of Labor (DOL)’s Indian and Native American Programs authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) supports funding for education, training, and services which enhance job seekers’ skills and competitiveness, in ways consistent with indigenous peoples’ cultural values and beliefs.
Other DOL programs emphasize training for in-demand jobs and help employers hire skilled workers.
The Small Business Administration’s Office of Native American Affairs offers entrepreneurial development, lending, and procurement programs for small businesses owned by Native Americans.
Internationally, the United States commits to working with indigenous peoples globally to protect and preserve their rights, cultures, languages, and knowledge, while increasing their access to political, economic, and social opportunities and services.
Question: Are there other programs or best practices proven to help improve the economic conditions and job opportunities in indigenous communities?
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