What is the trust responsibility?

The trust responsibility is a legal relationship between the United States government and Native American tribes based on treaties, laws, executive orders, and judicial decisions. This relationship is one of a guardian/ward, as the U.S. government is charged with the responsibility to look out for and ensure the protection of Native American tribes’ rights. This trust responsibility provides for the protection and maintenance of trust lands and resources, including the management of natural resources, upholding treaty commitments, and providing for the health and general welfare of Native American peoples. In Washington, the trust responsibility is implemented through the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Indian Affairs, which works with tribes to ensure that the trust responsibility is carried out. The Office of Indian Affairs works to ensure that Native American tribes in Washington are provided with adequate health care, housing, education, and other benefits. Additionally, they also advocate for the protection and proper management of Native American-owned lands and resources. Native American tribes in Washington also have a right to self-determination, meaning they have the right to make their own decisions regarding their own tribal resources and the use of federal funding. This right is central to the trust responsibility and is widely recognized by the U.S. government. In addition, tribes are allowed to develop their own laws to protect their resources, such as fishing and hunting rights, as well as to protect their cultural heritage.

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What is the trust responsibility?

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