What is the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act?

The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) is a federal law that was passed by the United States Congress in 1975. It is the cornerstone of the U.S. government’s policy of recognizing Native American tribes as sovereign entities, with the power to govern their own affairs and administer their own programs. The law provides a legal basis for the self-governance of Native American tribes and Alaska Native villages. The law requires the U.S. government to negotiate agreements with Native American tribes that allow them to administer certain federal programs. These agreements, called “tribal self-governance agreements” or “self-determination agreements”, enable tribes to assume control of programs that would otherwise be managed by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Health and Human Services. Under these agreements, tribes are responsible for carrying out the programs and are accountable for achieving the program goals and objectives established by the federal government. The law also requires the U.S. government to provide financial assistance to Native American tribes for educational programs, health care services, and other social services. This assistance is provided through grants, contracts, and educational scholarships. The goal of the law is to ensure that Native Americans have access to the same educational opportunities and services as other American citizens. ISDEAA is an important and groundbreaking law that has been instrumental in advancing the rights of Native Americans and empowering them to take control of their destiny. It is an integral part of the ongoing effort to improve the lives of Native Americans and to protect the rights of indigenous peoples.

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