Representatives Torres, Cole Introduce Indigenous Peoples Exchange and Economic Cooperation Act

Statement

On the final day of Native American Heritage Month, Representatives Norma J. Torres (CA-35) and Tom Cole (OK-04) introduced the Indigenous Peoples Exchange and Economic Cooperation Act to expand trade and investment opportunities for Native American Tribes and Indigenous Peoples in the Western Hemisphere.

"Our nations belonged to Native and Indigenous Peoples long before us. But today, these communities face countless challenges to economic prosperity and independence," said Congresswoman Torres. "It is our responsibility to create opportunities that will allow Indigenous Peoples to grow and prosper through investment, trade, and entrepreneurship. The bill will create key linkages to share lessons and help overcome shared challenges. By promoting trade with existing American industries and developing new, specialized supply chains, this legislation will help provide those pathways to economic success for Native communities in the U.S. and Indigenous Peoples throughout the region."

"Every day, Native Americans face barriers that prevent access to capital and increase unemployment rates. By creating economic exchanges and opportunities for certified Native American and indigenous products, we can provide more opportunities for financial success within these communities while enabling them share pieces of their unique culture and special history with the country," said Congressman Cole, Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma. "I am proud to join in introducing this important legislation that supports Native American businesses and products."

The Indigenous Peoples Exchange and Economic Cooperation Act will promote cross-investments and export opportunities between Native American Tribes and Indigenous Peoples in the Western Hemisphere in enterprises including sustainable natural resource management, agricultural development, timber, fish and other seafood, energy, art production, and will also facilitate the development of supply chains specifically for products produced by Native American Tribes and Indigenous peoples. The bill is in line with the January 26, 2021 Presidential memorandum titled ""Memorandum on Tribal Consultation and Strengthening Nation-to-Nation Relationships," which directs executive branches to engage in ""regular, meaningful, and robust consultation with Tribal officials.''

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