DNC Natives

02/14/2026

Statement from the DNC Native American Caucus on the Passing of Former Osage Nation Principal Chief Jim Gray

The Democratic National Committee Native American Caucus mourns the loss of a remarkable leader, statesman, and advocate for Indigenous sovereignty and justice — Former Principal Chief Jim Gray of the Osage Nation, who passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of 64.

Chief Gray’s legacy is one of transformative leadership and tireless commitment to his people. During his two terms as Principal Chief from 2002 to 2010, he guided the Osage Nation through a historic era of governmental reform, helping to establish a sovereign constitutional government that enfranchised all Osage citizens and strengthened tribal self-determination.

Beyond his work in governance, Chief Gray was a passionate voice for Native media representation, Indigenous rights, and cultural dignity. As a publisher, consultant, and mentor, he worked to ensure that Native perspectives were heard and respected across Indian Country and beyond.

We extend our deepest condolences to Chief Gray’s family, the Osage Nation, and all who were inspired by his vision and leadership. His contributions to the Osage Nation, to tribal sovereignty, and to Native communities nationwide will long be remembered with gratitude and respect.

May his memory be a blessing.

The Democratic National Committee Native American Caucus mourns the loss of a remarkable leader, statesman, and advocate for Indigenous sovereignty and justice — Former Principal Chief Jim Gray of the Osage Nation, who passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of 64.

02/05/2026

Statement from the DNC Native Caucus Condemning Governor Stitt’s Final State of the State Address

The DNC Native Caucus unequivocally condemns Governor Kevin Stitt’s final State of the State address as a direct assault on Tribal sovereignty, federal law, and the continued existence of Tribal governments in Oklahoma.

Despite attempts to cloak his remarks in rhetoric about “fairness,” “equal treatment,” and “public safety,” Governor Stitt’s message was unmistakable: he is calling for the dismantling of Tribal jurisdiction and the erasure of Tribal Nations as governing entities. This is not reform. It is termination—repackaged for a modern audience.

The Governor’s repeated attacks on McGirt v. Oklahoma deliberately misrepresent the ruling and mislead the public. McGirt did not “federalize” Oklahoma, nor did it create new reservations. It reaffirmed binding treaty commitments and the federal trust obligations owed to Tribal Nations—obligations that predate Oklahoma statehood and remain the supreme law of the land under the U.S. Constitution. The Court merely confirmed what Congress never lawfully extinguished: the continued existence of Tribal Nations and their jurisdiction. These obligations are not political preferences or policy choices; they are enforceable legal duties that no governor has the authority to ignore, rewrite, or wish away.

Most troubling is that Governor Stitt—who publicly claims Tribal citizenship—has chosen to weaponize his platform against the very foundations of Tribal sovereignty. No Tribal citizen, elected official, or leader has the authority to surrender treaty rights, undermine sovereign jurisdiction, or legitimize rhetoric that treats Tribal governments as a problem to be solved. Tribal citizenship is not a shield against accountability when one advances policies that would dismantle Tribal Nations altogether.

Governor Stitt’s insistence that “all laws should apply equally” deliberately ignores a fundamental truth: Tribal Nations are political sovereigns, not racial groups. This argument has been rejected repeatedly by the United States Supreme Court and exists today only as a rhetorical tool to erase Native political identity and invalidate treaty obligations.

Equally dangerous is the Governor’s demand that Oklahoma exercise exclusive authority over criminal prosecution, taxation, and regulation in Indian Country. These demands contradict federal law, violate treaties, and undermine decades of cooperative agreements that have improved public safety and economic stability for Native and non-Native communities alike.

Let us be clear: Tribal governments do not cause chaos. They create stability. They are among Oklahoma’s largest employers, healthcare providers, educators, and law enforcement partners. The narrative advanced by the Governor is not grounded in fact—it is grounded in resentment toward Tribal self-determination and resistance to the rule of law.

The Cherokee Nation is correct to describe this rhetoric as the dying breath of a 19th-century termination mindset. History has already judged these ideas—and history has rejected them.

The DNC Native Caucus will not remain silent while a sitting governor uses his final address to encourage the Legislature and the public to dismantle Tribal governments. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, and government-to-government respect. Any attempt to weaken these principles will be met with firm, organized, and sustained opposition.

Tribal Nations are not going anywhere. The law is settled. The future belongs to cooperation—not erasure.

10/24/2025

Statement from the Caucus about Speaker Johnson's failure to swear in duly elected Representative Adelita Grijalva:

DNC Native American Caucus Condemns Denial of Representation for Indigenous Nations Following Delay in Swearing In Adelita Grijalva

10/13/2025

New Speaker Alert! In addition to our All Star Lineup Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan will be joining!

Register now! https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_owk1_CphSJCDjem4L31KnQ #/registration

10/11/2025

Join us and register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_owk1_CphSJCDjem4L31KnQ #/registration

Democrats

09/27/2025

Memorial Tribute to Ernie Stevens, Jr.
From the Democratic National Committee Native Caucus

The DNC Native Caucus joins Indian Country in mourning the passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr. Ernie was a tireless advocate, a respected leader, and a trusted friend to so many. Through his decades of service as Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, he helped strengthen tribal sovereignty, expand economic opportunity, and ensure a brighter future for Native communities.

Beyond his leadership, Ernie will be remembered for his generosity, his humility, and his deep love for Native people. He carried himself with the heart of a relative, always ready to listen and always ready to stand up for what was right.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Cheryl, to his family, and to the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. His passing is a tremendous loss, but his example will continue to inspire us as we carry forward the work he devoted his life to.

May his memory guide us, and may we honor him by continuing the fight for sovereignty, justice, and opportunity for all Native nations.

In remembrance,
The Democratic National Committee Native American Caucus

08/15/2025

DNC Statement on Navajo Code Talker Day

DNC Statement on Navajo Code Talker Day
AUGUST 14, 2025

DNC Chair Ken Martin and DNC Native Caucus Chair Clara Pratte issued the following statement in recognition of Navajo Code Talker Day:

“On Navajo Code Talker Day, Democrats honor the courage and ingenuity of the Navajo Marines whose unbreakable code helped secure victory in World War II. At a time when their language was under attack by U.S. policy, these heroes turned it into a powerful weapon for freedom — saving lives and protecting democracy.

“The legacy of the Code Talkers is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from cultural resilience and service. Their story is not only military history — it is Indigenous history, American history, and a call to protect the rights, languages, and communities that have shaped this nation.

“While Republicans try to erase history and undermine tribal sovereignty, Democrats remain committed to honoring Native veterans, protecting Indigenous languages, and fighting for the rights and resources Native communities deserve. We will never forget the legacy of the Code Talkers—and we will keep working to ensure the federal government lives up to its promises to Native peoples.”

Indigenous Code Talkers have played a vital role in American history, and the following nations have had code talkers defending our freedoms:

07/20/2025

Statement from the DNC Native American Caucus on Donald Trump’s Call to Reinstate Offensive Team Names

As the DNC Native American Caucus, we strongly condemn former President Donald Trump’s recent remarks calling for the reinstatement of deeply offensive and racially insensitive sports team names such as the “Washington Redskins” and “Cleveland Indians.”

Let us be clear: the term Redskins is a slur. It has been rejected by tribal nations, Native youth, elders, and national Native organizations for decades. To suggest that “our great Indian people, in massive numbers, want this to happen” is not only false—it is a gross misrepresentation of the truth. Native Americans have spoken loud and clear: we are not mascots. We are sovereign peoples with living cultures, histories, and futures.

These statements are not about honoring Native heritage—they are about perpetuating outdated and harmful stereotypes for political theater. True honor and respect come from listening to Native voices, defending tribal sovereignty, and confronting the racism embedded in the symbols and language of the past.

We will not allow our identities to be used as pawns in a culture war. At a time when Native communities are fighting for equal representation, clean water, voting rights, and protection of sacred lands, resurrecting racial slurs as team names is not only offensive—it is a distraction from the real issues facing Indian Country.

The DNC Native American Caucus reaffirms our commitment to dignity, equity, and justice for all Native peoples. We call on political leaders, sports organizations, and the public to move forward—not backward—by retiring harmful mascots, elevating authentic Native voices, and engaging in meaningful partnership with tribal nations.

We will not be erased. We will not be caricatured. We will be heard.

DNC Native American Caucus
July 20, 2025

07/19/2025

Statement from the DNC Native American Caucus on House GOP’s Blocking of Epstein File Release

The DNC Native American Caucus is deeply troubled by the recent actions taken by House Republicans to block transparency and accountability regarding the Epstein files.

This week, in a Rules Committee vote, the GOP majority refused to advance an amendment that would have allowed the full House to consider releasing critical Epstein evidence. This evidence, which may contain significant information regarding high-profile individuals, including Donald Trump, is being deliberately withheld from public scrutiny.

We commend Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03) for her courage in speaking truth to power, asking the simple and powerful question: “Is there anything that needs to be hidden? If there isn’t, then just release the files.” Her voice reflects the demand of communities across the country—including Tribal communities—for truth, transparency, and justice.

Only one Republican on the committee joined Democrats in voting for the amendment. Today, the situation worsened as House Republicans again blocked a separate Democratic-led effort on the House floor to compel the Justice Department to release the Epstein files—this time with not a single Republican voting in favor.

This pattern of obstruction raises grave concerns. The American people—and Tribal Nations—deserve leaders who protect victims, pursue justice, and uphold integrity, not those who protect the powerful and keep the truth hidden. Especially in light of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Epidemic Tribal Nations stand in solidarity with impacted victims of these horrific crimes.

We call on House Republicans to stop shielding the truth. The survivors and the public deserve full accountability.

DNC Native Caucus Leadership
Clara Pratte
Rion Ramirez
Arvina Martin

11/01/2024

Join us for today's DNC Native Caucus Call!

10/02/2024

HARRIS-WALZ NATIVE AMERICAN COALITION LAUNCH with LT. GOV. FLANAGAN

MYSTIC LAKE CENTER
2400 MYSTIC LAKE BLVD NW, PRIOR LAKE, MN 55372

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2024