Remembering Ben Nighthorse Campbell: A Maverick Senator Passes at 92

The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) is a premier cultural and educational institution dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Native American cultures. Established in 1989 by an Act of Congress, the NMAI is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum complex. ## History and Background The NMAI's origins trace back to George Gustav Heye, who founded the Museum of the American Indian in 1916. Heye's collection, which included over 10,000 objects by 1906, formed the foundation of the NMAI's current holdings[2][4]. The museum's modern incarnation was formalized in 1989, when the U.S. Congress transferred Heye's collection to the Smithsonian Institution[3]. ## Mission and Activities The NMAI's mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of Native cultures through partnerships with Native communities and others. It operates three facilities: the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the George Gustav Heye Center in New York City, and the Cultural Resources Center in Suitland, Maryland[5]. The museum offers exhibitions, public programs, educational initiatives, and research opportunities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to cultural preservation and education[3][5]. ## Key Achievements One of the NMAI's significant achievements is its role in repatriation efforts. The museum has been instrumental in returning human remains and cultural artifacts to their respective tribes, aligning with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act[1]. Additionally, the NMAI has fostered a platform for Native voices, providing a space for contemporary Native perspectives and cultural expression[5]. ## Current Status and Notable Aspects Today, the NMAI is renowned for its vast collection of Native artifacts, including objects, photographs, and media from across the Western Hemisphere[5]. It continues to serve as a resource for both Native communities and the broader public, promoting cultural understanding and exchange through various

The **United States Senate Committee on Indian Affairs** oversees legislation and policy affecting American Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native communities, focusing on economic development, land management, trust responsibilities, education, health care, and claims against the U.S. government.[1][2][5] Established in 1820 as a standing committee, it operated until 1947 when it merged into the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs amid fragmented oversight across over 10 congressional committees.[1][3][7] Revived as the Select Committee on Indian Affairs in 1977 (S. Res. 4, 95th Congress) to address the American Indian Policy Review Commission's recommendations, it gained permanence in 1984 (S. Res. 127, 98th Congress) and was redesignated the full Committee on Indian Affairs in 1993 (S. Res. 71, 103rd Congress).[1][2][3] Key achievements include advancing the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act, tribal law enforcement reforms, federal recognition processes, water rights settlements, Class III gaming regulations, and economic initiatives for tribes like the Muscogee Nation of Florida and Little Shell Tribe.[3] The committee conducts hearings, subpoenas witnesses, and reviews all Native-related bills, ensuring cohesive policy amid trust reform, health, housing, and education challenges.[2][3] Currently, as of late 2025, **Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)** serves as Chair and **Brian Schatz (D-HI)** as Vice Chair, leading active hearings on bills like S. 3383, the Lumbee Fairness Act (S.107), and oversight of government shutdown impacts on Native communities.[5] It draws significant lobbying from Native businesses in gaming, energy, and land use, blending cultural advocacy with economic stakes relevant to tech and business sectors like tribal broadband and resource development.[6][8] Notable fo