Delaware Formally Creates Native American Affairs Commission in Legislative Hall Ceremony
DOVER, Del. — Delaware formally established a Native American Affairs Commission with a ceremonial signing at Legislative Hall on Oct. 7, giving the state's Native American tribes and communities a formal advisory voice in state government, Delaware Online reported.
The signing ceremony at the state capitol in Dover drew state lawmakers, tribal representatives and community members. The commission will advise the governor and General Assembly on issues affecting Native American residents, including education, health care, cultural preservation and economic development.
Delaware is home to several state-recognized tribes, including the Nanticoke Indian Tribe and the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware, whose ancestors inhabited the region long before European colonization. For decades, tribal leaders have sought greater recognition and a structured channel to raise concerns with state agencies.
The commission's creation comes as states across the country have moved to formalize government-to-government relationships with tribal nations. Supporters said the new body will help ensure Native American perspectives are included in policymaking, from school curricula that teach Indigenous history to state programs serving tribal communities.
The ceremonial signing took place weeks ahead of Native American Heritage Month in November, when the state traditionally honors the contributions of its Indigenous peoples. State officials said appointments to the commission's seats would be announced in the coming months, with the body expected to hold its first meeting early next year.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：特拉华州议会大厦。摄影：w_lemay，CC BY-SA 2.0，来源：Wikimedia Commons
