What is the trust responsibility?

The trust responsibility is the legal obligation that the federal government has to Native American tribes which is based on the treaties between the two parties. In Oklahoma, this trust responsibility creates a special relationship between the federal government and the Indian tribes which is enshrined in the Constitution. The trust responsibility is the recognition of the promises made to the tribes and serves to ensure that those promises are kept. In Oklahoma, the trust responsibility requires the federal government to be held accountable for its actions relating to Native American tribes and their lands. This includes providing adequate resources for tribes such as health care and education as well as preserving tribal cultural and religious practices. The trust responsibility also requires the federal government to respect the sovereignty of the tribes, honor their treaty and trust responsibilities, and protect their rights and resources. In addition, the federal government must ensure that all Native American laws and regulations are in accordance with the trust responsibility. This includes protecting and preserving tribal lands and resources, holding sacred sites to be of paramount importance, and taking action to mitigate pollution and contamination of tribal resources and lands. Ultimately, the trust responsibility serves to increase cultural understanding and to strengthen the relationship between the federal government and the tribes in Oklahoma.

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