Elsie Meeks, a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota who was the first Native American on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, ended her term on the panel on Thursday amid changes that could affect Indian Country.

The commission has seen upheaval in recent months as appointees of President Bush assumed control. Three members resigned to protest what they said were partisan politics influencing the panel.

The commission has since decided to close two offices and review its finances. Meeks said the Denver regional office, which helped issue two important reports on Indian health care and federal funding for Indian programs, could get axed.

Meeks said she would accept a second term if reappointed. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nevada) controls the appointments but hasn't decided who to name.

Get the Story:
Office for civil rights at risk (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 4/15)

Indian Country Reports:
Broken Promises: Evaluating the Native American Health Care System (July 2004) | A Quiet Crisis: Federal Funding and Unmet Needs in Indian Country (July 2003)

Relevant Links:
United States Commission on Civil Rights - http://www.usccr.gov

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