Native Nations Institute presented a panel at TENWEST 2019 in Tucson called “Navigating the Structures of Native Nations.” Arizona is home to 22 Native nations, many whom are major economic drivers. Panelists presented an overview of Native nations including their socio-economic challenges, governmental form, authorities, laws, and economic environments. Representatives from two of Tucson’s Indigenous communities, the Tohono O’odham Nation and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, shared suggestions for building effective inter-governmental relationships. Panelists included are:

Joan Timeche, Executive Director, Native Nations Institute

Austin Nunez, Chairman, San Xavier District Tohono O’odham Nation

Herminia Frias, Councilwoman, Pascua Yaqui Tribal Council