The Evidence for Native Nation Building

Miriam Jorgensen    Jonathan Taylor

Supported by three decades of research, Indigenous self-determination and tribal self-governance have proven to be the most effective policies when it comes to addressing economic disparities affecting Indigenous communities and empowering tribal governments to exercise real control over their cultures, lives, and societies.

• What specific data support the core principles of Indigenous nation building (self-determination, effective and legitimate governing institutions, strategic orientation, and public-spirited leadership)?  
• What is the basis of the argument that Indigenous self-determination and self-government are the most effective nation rebuilding policies?  
• How can course participants contextualize the Indigenous research findings for their own communities?