Democrats are proud to have members of the Native American community as active members of our party. American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians have critical roles in our state and national party organizations. In the Democratic Party, we encourage American Indians to participate as both voters and as candidates.

Issues that matter to American Indian communities are addressed throughout the Democratic Party Platform. Democrats up and down the ballot are committed to protecting tribal sovereignty and self-determination, and we want to partner with tribes on infrastructure investments, affordable and safe housing, and economic opportunities for people living on tribal lands. We are committed to environmental justice across the country, and believe that climate change policies must protect tribal resources. We support tribal nations efforts to develop wind, solar, and other clean energy jobs.

Democrats fully support the Indian Child Welfare Act and believe in the importance of protecting Native American children to preserve Native American cultures and communities.

President Obama's Generation Indigenous initiative made important strides in promoting new investments and increased engagement with American Indian youth, but Democrats aren't done. From improving funding for Bureau of Indian Education schools to creating jobs for young American Indian graduates, Democrats are committed to empowering Native youth to become leaders in their communities and tearing down barriers to success.

The Affordable Care Act has provided more than 500,000 uninsured American Indians and Alaska Natives with an opportunity to obtain affordable health insurance coverage. We are continuing to strengthen the Indian Health Service because every American deserves access to quality care. Republicans have repeatedly attempted to repeal  the ACA and have succeeded in eliminating  the individual mandate, which has already begun to  drive up premiums. Democrats will stand and fight for the right of every American to continue to receive the healthcare they so desperately need.

Finally, Democrats will always stand up for every Americans right to vote. We are working to improve access to polling locations in American Indian communities, and will never stop fighting until every voice is heard.