Sovereignty is the lifeblood of Native Americans. Simply put, this time-honored concept reflects the living relationship between the people and the land they live on. For native tribes, sovereignty is the truest expression of self-determination and a sure path toward economic independence, preserving our culture, and improving our communities — building a better future for our people and for the country as a whole.
Since time immemorial, Native American tribes have existed as sovereign nations. Today, tribal sovereignty for all federally recognized tribes in the United States — and for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians — is an inherent and essential expression of our status as a nation.
But it hasn’t always been so. Despite early agreements guaranteeing the tribes' continued recognition and treatment as sovereign nations, state governments have historically attempted to impose their will on tribes.
Under the Constitution of the United States and numerous treaties, the federal government undertook to protect tribes from states who have often coveted our lands and assets, to restore peace and sovereignty so that we may improve our communities and create prosperity. The U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly upheld this essential demonstration of freedom, recognizing tribal sovereignty in court decisions for more than 160 years.
The Founding Fathers recognized the important contributions made by tribal nations and ultimately memorialized that economic relationship in the U.S. Constitution. Whether it is gaming, natural resource development, charitable work, or any of the other valuable means of economic impact that tribes promote, the only way for Indian Country to provide a better future for the generations to come — and a better economy for the country as a whole — is to fully exercise sovereignty.
It is our birthright, and a legacy we are honored to uphold.