Chairman Gonzalez Advocates for Tribal Energy Sovereignty at Federal Roundtable

LAKEWOOD, COLORADO – Caddo Nation Chairman Bobby Gonzalez participated in a significant federal roundtable discussion on June 18th, meeting with U.S. Department of Interior officials to address critical barriers facing tribal communities across the United States.

The meeting, held in Lakewood, Colorado, brought together tribal leaders from multiple nations to engage in dialogue with Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Scott Davis. The roundtable focused on identifying and removing systemic barriers that hinder tribal access to funding and resources essential for energy sovereignty and economic development.

"The key focus was removing barriers and funding issues that support energy sovereignty for tribes and economic development for tribal communities that support tribal programs and our community needs as tribal people," Chairman Gonzalez explained following the meeting.

The discussion addressed challenges that have long impacted Native communities' ability to develop sustainable energy programs and achieve greater economic independence. By bringing together diverse tribal leadership with federal officials, the roundtable aimed to create pathways for more effective collaboration between tribal nations and the federal government.

Among the attendees were Chairman Mark Fox of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (Three Affiliated Tribes), Chairman Melvin J. Baker of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Chairman Frank White Clay of the Crow Tribe, President Buu Nygren of the Navajo Nation, and numerous other tribal leaders representing communities from across the United States.

This meeting represents part of ongoing efforts by tribal leadership to ensure that Native communities have access to the resources and support needed to develop sustainable energy programs and strengthen tribal governance. The collaboration between federal officials and tribal leaders continues to be essential for addressing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

The Caddo Nation remains committed to working with federal partners and fellow tribal nations to advance policies that support tribal sovereignty and the wellbeing of all Native peoples.