"For the first time in its history, the annual Federal Bar Association Indian Law Conference will take place in a tribal community just outside of Santa Fe, N.M., at Pojoaque Pueblo’s Buffalo Thunder Resort. We celebrate this historic move as an opportunity for reflection on the relationship between federal Indian law and Indian communities, particularly in an era of political change and promise.

Federal Indian law, with its assimilationist legacy, has not always promoted the best interests of Indian tribes. Today, however, grassroots movements in Indian Country inspire tribal advocacy before all three branches of federal government. Tribes are positioned like never before to shape the law that affects tribal people, resources, and values.

The 2009 conference will examine these issues through discussions on reservation-based economies, renewable energy, religious freedoms, environmental regulation, legal ethics, Supreme Court litigation, and gaming. Other panels will address opportunities for tribes to use the law as a tool in revitalizing Indian communities, particularly in light of the new Presidential administration."

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FBA 2009 Save the Date Postcard (Turtle Talk 12/10)