A new measure introduced by U.S. Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawaii, would help ensure that the goals and perspectives of the world’s 476 million indigenous peoples are properly understood, considered and integrated into U.S. foreign policy.
Case said the principles and provisions included in the Indigenous Diplomacy and Engagement Act were drawn in part from the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, which was held in Hawaii last summer.
“The Pacific Festival was a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of the indigenous peoples of the Pacific and of mutual commitment across national boundaries to addressing the challenges of our times, and we should take those lessons in our own responses,” Case said.
The bill also builds upon the foundational United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which was drafted and adopted in 2007.
“Rather than step away from the international stage, we must redouble efforts for meaningful engagement wherever and however we can,” Case said. “This includes strengthening our relationships and partnerships with international indigenous peoples to more fully include their special perspective and connectedness in an inextricably interlinked world.”
The bill would establish an Office for Indigenous Affairs within the U.S. Department of State to coordinate diplomacy and engagements between the federal government and international indigenous peoples.
A designated coordinator for indigenous affairs would be charged with establishing a comprehensive international strategy for promoting diplomacy and engagement with indigenous peoples.
The strategy would be developed in coordination with various federal departments and agencies as well as an Advisory Commission on Indigenous Peoples established by the bill.
In addition, the bill would require foreign service officers to receive training on the history and culture of indigenous cultures that reside near or within their assigned areas.
Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.
