The Daily Spark

Sitting Bull College in Fort Yates is hosting a Biscuit and Gravy Sale today, Thursday, Jan. 30, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the Student Lounge. The event is a fundraiser to support the upcoming American Indian Higher Education Consortium Student Conference.

Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state of California are seeking to dismiss a lawsuit by the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, arguing that state sovereign immunity bars the tribe’s claims over gaming compact negotiations. The tribe alleges the state failed to negotiate in good faith under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. A 2022 Ninth Circuit ruling previously limited California’s ability to include non-gaming provisions in compacts.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has expanded its Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios (HAHS) program, adding 19 new sites, the largest expansion since the program's creation in 2000. This milestone includes sites honoring Indigenous artists, such as the workspaces of Native artists from the Northwest and Plains regions. The expansion strengthens the HAHS network, showcasing diverse artistic legacies across the U.S.

The Northern Cheyenne Tribe will offer ID services in Billings on January 30-31, 2025, at First Church (310 N 27th St). Thursday hours are 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A $10 money order is required, with financial assistance available. Tribal members who already have IDs are asked to allow space for those who need one. For more details, contact Emma King, Joetta Yellowrobe, or Victoria Haugen at 406-477-4878.

Former President Donald Trump has proposed cuts to federal funding for Native American and Hispanic-serving colleges, aiming to reduce government spending. This would impact institutions serving underrepresented communities, potentially hindering educational opportunities. Tribal colleges, which have a significant role in preserving Native cultures and traditions, could face financial challenges. Tribal leaders and education advocates have voiced concerns, stressing the importance of these institutions in providing accessible education.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) reassures members following the rescinding of a federal grant and loan pause, vowing to uphold Native rights. The tribe is reviewing federal programs and advocating for continued funding. KBIC’s commitment aligns with Bay Mills Indian Community’s stance on sovereignty and governance.

Mark Fox, chairman of the Three Affiliated Tribes, purchased a home in Las Vegas after his tribal government faced criticism for spending $115 million on land along the Strip. The purchase, reportedly financed through the tribe's mortgage program, has raised questions about the tribe's priorities and transparency. Critics argue the focus should be on community needs in North Dakota, while Fox justifies the investment as part of the tribe’s economic growth strategy.

North America's oldest dinosaur, found in Wyoming, has been named using the Shoshone language, linking Native cultures with scientific research. This discovery not only sheds light on prehistoric life but also celebrates the importance of Native languages in modern-day scientific contributions.

Bryson Sam, alongside his siblings, took to the streets of the Navajo Nation capital on January 29, 2025, holding signs in protest of the Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts. Sam voiced concerns about the rising backlash faced by Native people in urban areas, particularly after unverified claims linked Navajo citizens to immigration detentions. Protesters also voiced broader concerns regarding racial justice and unity across communities. Navajo leaders have advised tribal members to carry state-issued IDs in light of heightened deportation fears. For more information, visit operationrainbowbridge.com.

A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order on January 28, 2025, blocking the Trump administration's freeze on federal funding. The freeze, which impacted essential programs like Medicaid and Head Start, was halted after legal challenges from groups such as Democracy Forward. The White House rescinded its funding pause following the court's decision, allowing funding to continue. Native leaders, among others, expressed relief as essential services and programs were not disrupted.

The Senate confirmed former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum as U.S. Interior Secretary in a 79-18 vote. Burgum, who has pledged to expand fossil fuel production, will oversee agencies like the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Environmental groups criticize his stance, while North Dakota leaders praise his appointment.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is standing by its approval of TC Energy’s GTN Xpress pipeline expansion, arguing in the Fifth Circuit that the project is necessary and met environmental review standards. The expansion, facing opposition from Washington, Oregon, and environmental groups, would increase gas capacity through Idaho and Oregon. Critics argue FERC overlooked environmental risks and financial concerns, while FERC maintains it followed legal guidelines.

Nearly half of the U.S. Senate is backing the reintroduced AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which would require all new cars to include AM radios. The bill responds to automakers like Tesla and BMW removing AM from electric vehicles, citing signal interference. Supporters argue AM radio is a crucial tool for public safety, reaching 90% of Americans in national emergencies. A committee hearing is set for Feb. 5.

A federal court in Alaska has paused the Aniak Traditional Council’s lawsuit against state entities and the Federal Aviation Administration over ancestral remains discovered during an airport runway project. The stay allows parties to continue settlement talks without further litigation. The tribe alleges that the University of Alaska System holds Indigenous remains and that agencies have blocked further recovery efforts. A status report is due by March 28.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has modified a 2020 order that granted Oklahoma full regulatory authority over most of Indian Country, requiring the state to coordinate with 11 tribal nations on environmental policies. The decision follows concerns from tribes about sovereignty and the impact on air and water quality. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt criticized the move as federal overreach. The Pawnee Nation called it a step toward better protection of tribal lands.

The Muscogee (Creek) Nation has filed lawsuits against two Oklahoma district attorneys, accusing them of unlawfully prosecuting Native Americans for crimes committed on tribal land. The suits follow similar legal actions by the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Choctaw nations, as well as the U.S. Department of Justice. The tribe argues that these prosecutions violate federal law and threaten tribal sovereignty, citing the Supreme Court’s 2020 McGirt ruling.

Deb Haaland, former U.S. Interior Secretary and citizen of the Laguna Pueblo, has declared her candidacy for governor of New Mexico. If elected, she would become the state's first Native American governor. Haaland, known for her advocacy of conservation and clean energy, previously served as the nation's first Native American cabinet secretary. Her campaign is managed by Scott Forrester. The current governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, will conclude her term in 2026.

Mental Health America is seeking young leaders for its Youth Policy Accelerator Program. The initiative aims to engage youth in shaping mental health policy through a hands-on, action-driven learning experience. Participants will develop leadership skills and collaborate to advance mental health solutions for young people across the country. The program seeks passionate individuals committed to advocating for change.

For more details on how to apply, visit Mental Health America.

A group of Native American landowners is seeking changes to a 2019 oil and gas tax-sharing agreement between the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation and North Dakota. Senate Bill 2304, introduced Jan. 28, would pause disbursement of oil tax revenues until the agreement is modified to account for private landowners. Tribal leaders oppose the measure, citing sovereignty concerns. The oil industry also warns it could disrupt tax agreements. The committee has yet to take action.