News in Brief:
– USDA is set to host Annual Consultation and Listening Session on Tribal Barriers from April 22-26 to foster partnerships to support local farmers and Indigenous communities.
– Highlights will include showcasing transformative changes under the Biden-Harris Administration, prioritising Tribal perspectives.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is set to host its Annual Consultation and Listening Session on Tribal Barriers from April 22 to 26, 2024. This significant event will showcase the strides made under the Biden-Harris Administration in addressing Tribal Nation requests while seeking feedback for further improvements.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasised the transformative changes witnessed in the department’s engagement with Indian Country over the past three years.
For example, that have been increased collaborations between Tribes and National Forests, enhanced marketing support for Native producers, and the inclusion of more Native foods in nutrition assistance programs. All of these, Vilsack said, reflect the administration’s commitment to integrating Tribal and Indigenous perspectives.
Transforming partnerships with Tribal Nations
The consultations serve as formal, Nation-to-Nation dialogues between USDA and officials representing the 574 federally recognised Tribal Nations. With agriculture playing a vital role in Indian Country, the department’s role extends to upholding Tribal treaty rights and fostering the Nation-to-Nation trust relationship. These consultations provide a platform for Tribal Nations to voice concerns and offer insights on how USDA policies and programs can better support their communities.
The upcoming consultations will concentrate on priority areas outlined by the Biden-Harris Administration. Senior USDA officials will engage with elected Tribal leaders to address pressing issues. Additionally, Tribal organisations will facilitate pre-consultation caucuses to enable Tribal leaders to deliberate on these matters collectively. Following the formal consultations, an open listening session will invite input from all attendees representing Indian Country.
For local farmers and Indigenous communities, these consultations signify more than just discussions; they represent an opportunity to shape policies directly impacting their livelihoods. As USDA continues its efforts to remove barriers and empower Tribal self-determination, the outcomes of these sessions hold the promise of a more inclusive and responsive agricultural landscape.
For registration, meeting details, and further information, visit USDA.gov and join the conversation on the future of agriculture.
