What is the trust responsibility?

The trust responsibility is an obligation that the federal government has toward Native Americans in the United States. This responsibility was outlined in the treaties between the U.S. government and Native American tribes, and is based on the understanding that the tribes retain certain rights and that the federal government must protect those rights. In Michigan, these rights include the rights of tribes to maintain their own government and to receive services from the United States for health and education. The federal government is responsible for providing financial assistance for tribal programs, services, and resources. Additionally, the federal government is responsible for respecting and upholding the sovereign rights of Native American tribes. This includes protecting tribal land and resources, such as fishing and hunting rights, and honoring the treaties and agreements between the tribes and the U.S. government. The trust responsibility also requires the federal government to recognize tribes as distinct political entities that are distinct from other U.S. governments and to adhere to the terms of any treaties that have been negotiated between the tribes and the government.

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