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Obama Announces New Council for Native Americans

By Beacon Staff

OKLAHOMA CITY — Citing a history of mistreatment that has hurt Indians, President Barack Obama has established a White House Council on Native American Affairs to promote a healthier relationship among the United States and tribal governments.

The leaders of 30 federal departments and agencies will serve on the council, which is charged with aiding tribes with economic development, transportation, housing and health care.

Obama said Wednesday the United States must restore and heal its relationship with Native Americans. In announcing the panel’s creation, he said the country “cannot ignore a history of mistreatment and destructive policies that have hurt tribal communities.”

Interior Secretary Sally Jewell is scheduled to discuss council details Thursday at the conclusion of the National Congress of American Indians Mid-Year Conference in Reno, Nev.