Northern Arapaho council adopts policy for outside groups after church sermon

The Northern Arapaho Business Council has adopted a new policy requiring outside organizations to consult with and receive authorization from the council before conducting activities on land under the tribe’s jurisdiction, according to reporting from the Riverton Ranger. The policy follows a July 5 sermon by Foundations For Nations Pastor Sarah Lucas that drew widespread criticism after she urged tribal members to reject traditional Indigenous spiritual practices. The council said its records review found the church had not received authorization to operate on the reservation.

The business council has requested a meeting with Foundations For Nations leadership within 10 days to discuss the church’s mission, leadership, funding and activities, according to the Riverton Ranger reporting. Council Chairman Keenan Groesbeck said the policy is intended to uphold tribal sovereignty and ensure outside organizations work in partnership with tribal leadership while recognizing the historical impacts of forced assimilation and efforts to suppress Indigenous cultures and spiritual traditions.