At stake is the availability and accuracy of data helping tribal leaders make decisions about where to locate grocery stores or schools and estimate future population growth.
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To mark the event, supporters projected a picture of the New Mexico congresswoman on the side of the Interior Department building with text that read “Our ancestors’ dreams come true.” A mobile billboard with Haaland’s image also made its way around Washington, D.C.
Many Native Americans see Haaland as a reflection of themselves, someone who will elevate their voices and protect the environment and tribes’ rights. Here are stories of her impact:
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Suazo first met Haaland when they were campaigning for Barack Obama, walking door to door in New Mexico’s pueblos.
When Haaland was chosen to represent New Mexico as one of the first two Native American women ever elected to Congress, she asked Suazo and the state’s Native American Democratic Caucus to make treats for a reception.
Indian Country gripped by Haaland hearing for top U.S. post By FELICIA FONSECA, Associated Press
Published: February 23, 2021, 2:35pm
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7 Photos This photo provided by Debbie Nez-Manuel shows her husband, Royce Manuel, left and Nez-Manuel at their home at the Salt River-Pima Maricopa Community northeast of Phoenix on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2021. The couple will be among Native Americans who will be closely watching the confirmation hearing for Deb Haaland, a New Mexico congresswoman who has been nominated to lead the U.S. Department of the Interior, on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2021. (Debbie Nez-Manuel via AP) Photo Gallery
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) For Native Americans, Deb Haaland is more than an elected official on track to become the first Indigenous secretary of the Interior Department. She is a sister, an auntie and a fierce pueblo woman whose political stances have been molded by her upbringing.