For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today delivered remarks at the National Congress of American Indians 2012 Executive Council Winter Session, highlighting the Department's ongoing commitment to working with tribes and tribal governments to make our nation more safe, secure and resilient.
"Tribes and tribal governments play an essential role across the Department of Homeland Security - from helping combat threats in our communities, to protecting our borders and critical infrastructure, and improving our resilience to disasters of all kinds," said Secretary Napolitano. "We are committed to continuing to work closely with tribal public safety, law enforcement and emergency management officials to enhance information sharing and collaboration, as well as preparedness, response and recovery."
During her remarks, Secretary Napolitano announced the release of the DHS Tribal Resource Guide - a comprehensive catalog of resources within DHS available to Indian Country. This guide provides tribes with information on the Department's offices and components, available training programs, initiatives that impact tribal nations, key contact information, and more.
Secretary Napolitano underscored the importance of collaboration with tribes and tribal governments to improve our ability to protect against threats and better respond to emergencies.
At the 2009 NCAI Winter Session, Secretary Napolitano announced a tribal consultation policy that promotes the direct and interactive involvement of Indian Tribes in developing regulatory policies, recommending grant procedures for tribes, and advising on key issues.
In March 2010, DHS released the DHS Tribal Consultation and Coordination Plan to streamline information sharing and foster a culture of collaboration with federally recognized tribes across the United States.
For more information, visit www.dhs.gov.
###