Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition Honored by Harvard
BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT, Utah — The Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition (BEITC) recently received national recognition for their pioneering contributions to Indigenous governance and stewardship from Harvard University's prestigious Honoring Nations Awards. This accolade highlights BEITC's exceptional efforts in the collaborative management of the Bears Ears National Monument, showcasing their leadership in Inter-Tribal governance and cultural preservation.
A Testament to Indigenous Governance
Founded by the Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Zuni Tribe, and Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, the Coalition exemplifies a powerful model of Tribal collaboration and decision-making that is deeply rooted in traditional knowledge. “This award affirms what our elders and leaders have taught us, that Indigenous governance is powerful, effective, and necessary,” expressed Anthony Sanchez Jr., Head Councilman of the Zuni Tribe and Co-Chair of the BEITC.
Responsibility Towards Ancestral Lands
“Our initiatives at Bears Ears are about responsibility, healing, and protecting the cultural legacy of our Nations for future generations,” he emphasized, reminding us of the deep connection Tribal nations maintain with their ancestral lands. This allows them to fulfill their duty to protect their heritage with respect and humility.
Milestone Achievements Recognized
Among the significant achievements highlighted by the Harvard Project is the finalization of the Bears Ears Resource Management Plan, which is the first of its kind to implement a comprehensive Tribal–federal collaborative management strategy for a U.S. national monument. Grounded in Traditional Knowledge, this plan recognizes the role of Tribal Nations as co-stewards of their Native territories.
Inspiring Indigenous Models of Stewardship
BEITC's forward-thinking model is already influencing other Indigenous initiatives across the country, as they focus on youth leadership, cultural landscape protection, and educational partnerships. The Honoring Nations award is a testament to their commitment to nurturance and identity preservation for future generations.
Recognition of Excellence in Tribal Governance
As the leading national recognition for excellence in Tribal governance, the Honoring Nations award, administered by the Harvard Kennedy School's Ash Center, acknowledges the efforts of BEITC alongside 142 other alumni awardees and grants them a platform of national visibility.
“This recognition belongs to our entire Coalition, as the five Tribes have stood together and continue to lead with a vision of care,” noted Davina Smith (Diné), Co-Chair of the BEITC. Her gratitude extended to partner organizations, agency collaborators, and all supporters of their mission.
Acknowledgment of Other Tribes' Efforts
The awards also celebrated the transformative leadership of organizations such as the Cherokee Nation, the Jicarilla Apache Nation, and the Lummi Nation, each making strides in their respective areas, from healthcare to ecological stewardship. These collective efforts reflect a powerful momentum for Indigenous governance throughout Indian Country.
In the spirit of collaboration, the Coalition encourages others to learn more about the Honoring Nations program as a vital component of progressive Indigenous governance practices.
About the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition
The BEITC serves as a fiscally sponsored project of the Resources Legacy Fund, a nonprofit organization. By blending advocacy, cultural stewardship, and Traditional Indigenous Knowledge, the Coalition aims to uphold the values of the Bears Ears cultural landscape. Their commitment ensures that future generations of Tribal members remain intricately connected to their sacred homelands, reinforcing the importance of cultural heritage and historical continuity in Tribal governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition?
The Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition is a collaborative initiative of five Tribes focusing on the stewardship and management of the Bears Ears National Monument.
What award did the Coalition receive?
The Coalition was honored with the Honoring Nations Award from Harvard, recognizing their excellence in Indigenous governance and environmental stewardship.
What was a significant achievement acknowledged by Harvard?
One notable achievement was the finalization of the Bears Ears Resource Management Plan, the first collaborative management plan for a U.S. national monument.
Who are the member Tribes of the Coalition?
The Coalition is composed of the Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Zuni Tribe, and Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation.
How does the BEITC influence Indigenous governance?
BY implementing programs focusing on youth engagement, cultural protections, and showcasing Traditional Knowledge, the BEITC is a model for other Tribes across the country.
