Cultural Preservation
Jul 14, 2026

Association names Crystal Miller cultural sovereignty director

Walker River Paiute citizen will lead national advocacy and policy initiatives supporting Native Nations


July 14, 2026

The Association on American Indian Affairs has appointed Dr. Crystal Miller as its cultural sovereignty director, according to an official statement from the organization. Miller, a citizen of the Walker River Paiute Tribe, will lead national initiatives focused on cultural sovereignty through advocacy, policy development, education, capacity building and direct support for Native Nations. The organization said her work will include efforts related to the protection of cultural heritage, Native knowledge systems, sacred places, languages and traditional lifeways.

Miller previously worked in Native policy, higher education and federal advocacy, including initiatives involving clean energy, natural resource protection and Native Nation governance. The Association on American Indian Affairs said Miller will work with Native Nations, government agencies and national partners to support cultural sovereignty and Native self-determination.

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