Chairman Gonzalez Continues Advocacy Efforts at National Tribal Budget Council Meetings

Tulsa, Oklahoma - Caddo Nation Chairman Bobby Gonzalez and his staff recently participated in the crucial Tribal/Interior Budget Council (TIBC) meetings in Tulsa, demonstrating the Nation's unwavering commitment to securing essential federal funding and upholding treaty obligations.

Standing Strong for Treaty Rights

The March 2025 TIBC meetings brought together tribal leaders from across the United States to work directly with Department of Interior officials, including Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Scott Davis, on critical budget priorities for Fiscal Year 2027. Chairman Gonzalez joined fellow tribal leaders in advocating for approximately $31 billion in funding requests—a significant increase aimed at addressing the growing needs of tribal communities nationwide.

Addressing Critical Challenges

During the meetings, tribal leaders, including Chairman Gonzalez, raised urgent concerns about:

• Workforce reductions affecting direct services to tribal communities

• Public safety crises in Indian Country, including inadequate law enforcement staffing

• Education sovereignty and protection of tribal-controlled education systems

• Infrastructure needs including transportation, utilities, and community development

• Trust responsibilities and the federal government's obligations to tribal nations

A Voice for Tribal Sovereignty

"The Tribal/Interior Budget Council provides a vital forum for the Caddo Nation to ensure our voice is heard at the highest levels of government," said Chairman Gonzalez. "We continue to hold the federal government accountable to its treaty and trust obligations while advocating for the resources our people need to thrive."

National Leadership

Chairman Gonzalez's participation in these meetings reflects the Caddo Nation's role in national tribal advocacy. Working alongside leaders from the 574 federally recognized tribes across the United States, he helps shape federal Indian policy and budget priorities that impact all of Indian Country.

The TIBC, established through the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, serves as the primary mechanism for tribes to collaborate with the Department of Interior on budget development and policy implementation. Through this process, tribal leaders like Chairman Gonzalez ensure that federal funding aligns with tribal priorities and supports tribal self-determination.

Moving Forward

As the federal budget process continues, Chairman Gonzalez and the Caddo Nation remain committed to advocating for increased funding that honors treaty obligations and supports the sovereignty and self-sufficiency of tribal nations. The work done at these meetings directly impacts programs and services that benefit Caddo Nation citizens and tribal communities across the country.

The Caddo Nation's continued engagement in these national discussions demonstrates Chairman Gonzalez's dedication to both local community needs and the broader movement for tribal rights and federal accountability in Indian Country.