Larry
EchoHawk started work this week as the new leader of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
EchoHawk, a member of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, was sworn in to the post on May 22. He spent the following week moving to the Washington, D.C., area before tackling his work at the BIA.
“I want American Indians and Alaska Natives to know we are ready to address their concerns,” EchoHawk said in a press release. “Government can be part of the solution to problems if it takes the time to listen, learns from its mistakes and seeks the best results. Now is the time for us to take action.”
EchoHawk said his priorities remain law enforcement and economic development. On Monday, he met with Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to discuss the Obama administration's plans.
“President Obama, Secretary Salazar, the Congress and tribal leaders want to see Indian Affairs move quickly to address Indian Country’s most pressing issues,” EchoHawk said. “The current economic conditions, while improving, still have a disproportionate impact on rural, remote tribal communities. We are moving forward to implement the Recovery Act, and I have begun reaching out to tribal leaders throughout our regions to hear their views on what solutions are needed.”
EchoHawk also met with the National Congress of American Indians at the organization's new office building in DC. He will address tribal leaders on Monday, June 15, at NCAI's mid-year session in Niagara Falls, New York.
"I believe Sec. EchoHawk's address to NCAI is the beginning of a new era where successful reform and
improvement efforts in Indian affairs are given the priority they
deserve, right from the beginning of the administration," said NCAI President Joe Garcia.
EchoHawk is pictured with his advisor Wizipan Garriott, a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe of South Dakota.
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