Upholding Tribal Sovereignty
South Dakota is home to nine sovereign tribal nations, whose histories, cultures, and enduring presence are fundamental to the fabric of this state. True progressive policy requires an unwavering commitment to upholding tribal sovereignty and respecting treaty rights. We recognize the inherent right of tribal nations to self-governance and advocate for policies that require meaningful, government-to-government consultation on all state actions that impact tribal lands or communities. We reject paternalistic approaches and instead champion self-determination for Indigenous peoples.
For too long, state policies have been developed without adequate input from Indigenous leaders, leading to decisions that undermine tribal authority and disregard historical agreements. We demand a paradigm shift. This involves honoring the Fort Laramie Treaties, acknowledging historical injustices, and actively working to return stolen lands, particularly within the Black Hills, to tribal stewardship. Co-management of public lands is a vital first step in this process. Recognizing historical truths is the necessary foundation for building a more equitable future.
Economic Justice and Development
Systemic inequalities have resulted in severe economic disparities within tribal communities. Our platform advocates for targeted investments in reservation infrastructure, including housing, clean water systems, and broadband access. We support initiatives that foster Indigenous-led economic development, such as expanding access to capital for Native entrepreneurs and promoting tribal renewable energy projects that generate revenue and provide energy independence. True economic justice requires dismantling the structural barriers that have historically hindered prosperity in tribal nations.
Furthermore, we must address the critical healthcare and educational disparities. We advocate for fully funding the Indian Health Service (IHS) and expanding culturally competent healthcare access on reservations. In education, we support the incorporation of Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings into state curricula, ensuring that all South Dakota students receive an accurate education regarding the history and culture of the region's original inhabitants. Educational equity is impossible without culturally relevant pedagogy.
Justice and Voting Rights
The crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) demands urgent, comprehensive action. We support increased funding for tribal law enforcement, improved jurisdictional cooperation, and robust victim support services. The state must prioritize the safety of Indigenous women and hold perpetrators accountable. Justice delayed is justice denied. We must address the systemic apathy that has allowed this crisis to persist for far too long.
Voting rights are also paramount. Native Americans in South Dakota face unique and significant barriers to the ballot box, including restrictive voter ID laws and inadequate polling locations on reservations. We advocate for expanding voting access, implementing automatic voter registration, and ensuring that every tribal citizen has a fair and equitable opportunity to participate in the democratic process. Protecting the Native vote is essential for true representation. A democracy is only functional when all citizens have equal access to the ballot.