A key U.S. Civil Rights Commission office that oversees 60 reservations and investigated discrimination against American Indians is being closed.

The office in Denver was responsible for the report that found South Dakota Indians were treated differently in the state's justice system. The report led to a state study that arrived at the same conclusion.

The office also helped in the development of two key reports on federal funding for Indian programs and the Indian Health Service. Tribal leaders and members of Congress have cited the reports repeatedly in seeking additional resources.

The Civil Rights Commission has seen turmoil since the start of the Bush administration. Several top members have resigned or left after their terms ended.

The agency's financial woes are forcing the closure of offices in Denver and Kansas City. The offices will be consolidated in Los Angeles and Chicago.

Get the Story:
Rights-office closings fought (The Denver Post 5/3)

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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