Make Indian Country Great Again

oogle’s Deep Dive Podcast: Echoes of Erasure: Unveiling the Ongoing Struggles of Indigenous Sovereignty

“Trump took the position against Native people first thing in office.”
— Matt Campbell, staff attorney at the Native American Rights Fund and enrolled member of the Native Village of Gambell.

hcn.org

Indigenous Supporters Gather in Washington, D.C. for Trump’s Inauguration

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Amid cold and rainy weather, Indigenous supporters of Donald J. Trump gathered in the nation’s capital to witness his inauguration as the 47th president. Braving sleet and hail, attendees like Navajo citizen Michelle Martin traveled thousands of miles to celebrate the moment and voice their hopes for the administration.

Trump’s Indigenous supporters cited economic development, tribal sovereignty, and stronger infrastructure as key priorities. Many also expressed their faith, believing his leadership would bring religion back into national discourse.

Later that evening, the Navajo Nation Washington Office hosted a reception where Indigenous leaders and allies gathered to discuss policy concerns and celebrate the occasion. Attendees, including tribal officials and activists, emphasized the need for reduced regulatory burdens and streamlined programs for Native communities.

Despite Trump’s mixed record on tribal sovereignty, many Indigenous supporters hoped his administration would address longstanding economic and healthcare issues in Indian Country.

1. Indigenous Representation at the Event

Indigenous Trump supporters gathered in Washington, D.C., despite cold and rainy weather.
Navajo attendees Michelle Martin, Shealyn Galindo, and Frances Mariano traveled over 2,000 miles from Bloomfield, New Mexico.
Martin highlighted the diversity of the crowd, emphasizing unity across different backgrounds.

2. Key Issues Driving Indigenous Support

Economic Growth: Supporters hoped the Trump administration would strengthen the economy and invest in infrastructure.
Healthcare Concerns: Calls for increased funding and efficiency in the Indian Health Service (IHS).
Tribal Sovereignty: Fears that sovereignty is being eroded; calls for stronger tribal governance protections.
Abortion Opposition: Many cited traditional values that emphasize the sanctity of life.
Military and Patriotism: Supporters valued Trump’s stance on national security and military support.
Religious Values: Calls for bringing faith and God back into American life.

3. Perspectives from Indigenous Leaders and Advocates

Michelle Martin (Navajo): Hoped for better healthcare funding and a faith-driven administration.
Quinton Kyle Kine (Navajo medicine man): Voiced concerns about the weakening of tribal sovereignty.
Mike Woestehoff (Navajo): Criticized the economic strain under the previous administration and emphasized anti-abortion views.
Michael Stopp (Cherokee): Urged regulatory reform to improve efficiency in Native programs.
Jeremiah Cota (San Carlos Apache): Advocated for economic development and infrastructure investment.

4. Navajo Nation Washington Office Reception

Hosted to welcome the new administration and the 119th Congress.
Featured a performance by Navajo gospel band August Remedy.
Attended by key figures like Arizona Rep. Eli Crane, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, and former Vice President Myron Lizer.

5. Youth Engagement and Education

Darnell Cooper (Navajo Navy veteran) brought her 17-year-old son as part of his homeschool curriculum.
Stressed the importance of firsthand exposure to historical events.

6. Overcoming Challenges to Attend

Attendees braved harsh weather conditions and heightened security measures.
Despite obstacles, they remained committed to witnessing the inauguration and advocating for Indigenous concerns.

A Moment of Unity and Unresolved Challenges

The presence of Indigenous Trump supporters at the inauguration underscored the diversity of political thought within Native communities. Despite historical tensions between tribal nations and the U.S. government, these attendees saw the Trump administration as an opportunity to address critical issues such as economic development, healthcare, tribal sovereignty, and religious values. Their journey to Washington, D.C., despite harsh weather and logistical challenges, reflected a deep commitment to political engagement and advocacy for their communities.

However, their optimism came with a cautious awareness of the ongoing struggles Native nations face. Many hoped the new administration would prioritize policies that strengthen tribal governance and uplift Indigenous economies, while others feared that federal decision-making might continue to neglect Native voices. The inauguration was not just a celebration but also a call to action—a reminder that the fight for Indigenous rights, recognition, and prosperity is far from over.

As the political landscape evolved, the real test lay ahead: whether promises would translate into tangible improvements for Native communities. For these supporters, the journey to Washington was not just about witnessing history, but about ensuring their voices remained part of the national conversation.

The Forgotten Echo: WíiyayA‘s Silent Struggle at the Rally

Under the cold grey skies of Washington D.C., the crowd around the rally grew larger by the hour. The sharp chill of winter was no match for the heat of expectation that seemed to hang in the air. It was the inauguration of President Donald Trump, and the streets were filled with a sea of people, all chanting their hopes for a brighter future. Among them, a lone figure stood out—her dark eyes filled with a mixture of weariness and resolve. Her name was WíiyayA—meaning “Hope” in Lakota Sioux.

WíiyayA had traveled far to be here. She had driven from the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota, a place where hope was as rare as a river running through a parched high desert. Her journey had taken her across miles of barren plains, into the heart of this city that pulsed with power and influence, a place that seemed to move in ways that her people could never quite reach. Yet here she was, standing on the outskirts of this victory rally, her hand clasping the small, worn-out flag of the Lakota Nation.

She could feel the weight of history in every step she took. Her ancestors had fought to protect their land, their culture, their rights. But as she stood in the midst of the throngs of Trump supporters, it felt as though all of that had been forgotten. She was just another face in the crowd—unseen, unheard. She could hear the chants of “Make America Great Again” ringing in her ears, but all she could think about was how America had never truly been great for people like her. For the Lakota, the history of this country was one of broken treaties, stolen lands, and unfulfilled promises.

Her heart ached as she looked around. There were so many faces, so many voices, but none of them seemed to care about the struggles of Indigenous peoples. The signs that proclaimed “Make Indian Country Great Again” seemed hollow, an ironic twist to the reality of her existence. Indian Country was not great—it was fractured, impoverished, ignored. The promise of a new dawn, offered by the man they were all gathered to celebrate, felt like a cruel joke.

She tried to push the sadness aside, reminding herself that she was here for a purpose. Her people had fought for centuries to hold onto their way of life, to their culture, to their spirit. She was here to honor that fight. But as she stood there in the crowd, feeling like a ghost among the living, she wondered if it had all been in vain.

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A man next to her, a fellow Native supporter, turned to her and smiled. His T-shirt was emblazoned with the words “Trump 2024.” He seemed genuinely excited, hopeful even. “This is our time,” he said, his voice full of conviction. “Our people are finally being heard.”

But WíiyayA felt nothing but emptiness. She nodded, offering a polite smile, but in her heart, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was invisible. She was here, standing in the same place as all these people, yet it felt as though the crowd around her was living in an entirely different reality. A reality that didn’t see the suffering of Native peoples, didn’t acknowledge the scars left by centuries of oppression.

As the rally began to wind down, WíiyayA found herself drifting toward the back of the crowd. The words of the speeches echoed in her mind, but they felt distant—too far removed from the truth of her people’s lived experiences. She thought about the many times she had fought for her community, for her culture, for her ancestors. And yet, in this moment, it felt as though all of that had been erased. The voices of her people were drowned out by the noise of political promises, promises that never seemed to reach her doorstep.

The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows over the Capitol as the crowd slowly dispersed. WíiyayA stood at the edge of the gathering, watching as the sea of people moved away, back to their lives, their futures, their hope. And yet, for her, there was no sense of resolution. No sense of forward movement. Her people had been here before—fighting, hoping, waiting for change. But it always felt like it was just out of reach.

As she turned to leave, she carried with her a quiet resolve—a desire to fight, to speak, to be heard. But in that moment, standing in the shadow of the Capitol, she felt small. Her culture, her voice, seemed like a whisper lost in a storm of political promises that could not, and would not, lift her people from the shadows of history.

Takeaway

This story serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities in America. While political rallies and promises of hope may excite some, they often fail to recognize the deep-rooted issues that continue to affect marginalized groups, especially Native Americans. For many, like WíiyayA, the promise of a better future is nothing more than an illusion, one that falls short of addressing the realities of land theft, cultural erasure, and systemic neglect.

In the face of such challenges, the journey of Indigenous peoples is one of resilience, persistence, and unwavering hope. It’s not enough to be heard in the echo of a rally or a political slogan; real change requires acknowledgment of past wrongs, support for sovereignty, and a commitment to healing. For WíiyayA and many others, the fight for justice is far from over—it’s a fight that will continue, regardless of who sits at the helm of power.

Source: https://www.nhonews.com/news/make-indian-country-great-again-indigenous-people-flock-to-washington-d-c-to-celebrate-the/article_5e42e612-d784-11ef-995b-af04413c7e0f.html

Summary

The text centers on Indigenous perspectives surrounding the 2017 inauguration of Donald Trump. It features accounts from Native American supporters who attended the event, highlighting their hopes for economic development, healthcare improvements, and strengthened tribal sovereignty under the Trump administration. However, the text also presents a counterpoint, showcasing the disillusionment and feelings of invisibility experienced by some Indigenous individuals despite the outward expressions of support. The juxtaposition of these viewpoints underscores the complex and multifaceted realities within Native American communities regarding political engagement and the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice. A website for TATANKA, an organization focused on Indigenous rights and AI, is also included.

Briefing Document: “Make Indian Country Great Again – TATANKA”

1. Introduction

This document analyzes a post titled “Make Indian Country Great Again” from the TATANKA website, dated January 28, 2025, focusing on Indigenous support for the 47th U.S. President and the broader context of Indigenous challenges and aspirations. The document also provides an overview of TATANKA’s multifaceted mission. The article, published on the TATANKA website, reports on Indigenous supporters of Donald J. Trump who gathered in Washington, D.C., for his inauguration as the 47th president. It highlights the diversity of views within Native communities, the key issues driving their support, and the enduring struggles they face. This analysis is supplemented with information about TATANKA, drawing on the website’s navigation and other details.

2. Key Themes and Ideas

Diverse Indigenous Political Perspectives: The article highlights that Indigenous communities are not monolithic and hold a variety of political views, with some actively supporting President Trump’s administration despite historical tensions. This contrasts with typical narratives.
“The presence of Indigenous Trump supporters at the inauguration underscored the diversity of political thought within Native communities.”
Key Motivations for Support: Indigenous Trump supporters were driven by several factors:
Economic Development: Hope for economic growth, infrastructure investment, and reduction of regulatory burdens.
“Many also expressed their faith, believing his leadership would bring religion back into national discourse.”
Healthcare: Calls for increased funding and efficiency in the Indian Health Service (IHS).
Tribal Sovereignty: Concerns about the erosion of sovereignty and the need for stronger protections.
Religious Values: Alignment with conservative values and a desire to see religion return to national discourse.
Patriotism: Supporting national security and military.
Anti-Abortion views: Supporting traditional values.
Challenges and Concerns: Despite their support, the attendees expressed significant concerns about the continued challenges faced by Native communities:
Erosion of Tribal Sovereignty: Fears that federal policies might weaken tribal governance.
Systemic Neglect: Concerns that the voices of Indigenous people are not adequately heard or addressed.
Economic Hardship: The need to address economic inequalities
“Indian Country was not great—it was fractured, impoverished, ignored.”
Individual Voices: The article presents several specific viewpoints from Indigenous leaders and advocates including Michelle Martin, Quinton Kyle Kine, Mike Woestehoff, Michael Stopp, and Jeremiah Cota, highlighting their specific concerns and hopes related to the new administration.
The Story of WíiyayA: This section introduces a fictional character, a Lakota woman who attended the inauguration, but felt unseen and unheard, highlighting the feeling of marginalization and disconnect felt by many Indigenous people regardless of political affiliation. She feels that “America had never truly been great for people like her,” highlighting broken treaties and unmet promises.
“She could hear the chants of “Make America Great Again” ringing in her ears, but all she could think about was how America had never truly been great for people like her.”
TATANKA’s Mission: The article highlights TATANKA’s aim to promote Indigenous culture, sustainability, and technological advancement. This seems to be a holistic and integrated model of thought. While it is not stated explicitly that this story reflects TATANKA’s views on the political support, the platform’s focus on Indigenous culture and its integration of technology does suggest a particular kind of critical approach to the issues. The use of AI in the creation of other “related posts,” also gives some indication to the platform’s methodology and potential views.

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3. Key Facts and Quotes

Inauguration Attendance: Indigenous supporters travelled long distances to attend the inauguration, braving harsh weather.
“Trump took the position against Native people first thing in office.” — Matt Campbell, staff attorney at the Native American Rights Fund
Navajo Nation Washington Office Reception: This hosted a gathering of Indigenous leaders and allies to discuss policy and celebrate the occasion.
“Make Indian Country Great Again”: This phrase, used in the article’s title and a T-shirt, underscores the diverse opinions within Native communities.
“This is our time…Our people are finally being heard.” This quote highlights the optimistic view held by some attendees in contrast to the concerns voiced by others, like WíiyayA.
“The signs that proclaimed “Make Indian Country Great Again” seemed hollow, an ironic twist to the reality of her existence.” This quote further expresses WíiyayA’s disillusionment.

4. TATANKA Context and Mission

Based on the navigation links, the TATANKA initiative includes the following:

Project 2025: Implies an active involvement in political planning and the future
AI: Integrates artificial intelligence into its projects
DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion): A strong commitment to these values
SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals): Aligns with global sustainability agendas
The Humanist Blueprint: Suggests a human-centered approach
Burning Man: Connection to the culture of Burning Man and its values
Orchestra Americana: Interest in music, art, and performance
The Council – Wisdom Circle: Emphasis on collaboration, global indigenous wisdom, and a sustainable future.
Radical Inclusion: A strong ethic of inclusion
AI Humanoids: A focus on artificial intelligence and its applications
Global Indigenous Wisdom: A belief in the importance of this knowledge base
Matriarchal Leadership: Interest in promoting matriarchal leadership styles and values
Technology, AI, Music and Art: Integrates these elements into its operations.
Emphasis on Cultural Preservation: The site also emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation.

5. Analysis and Implications

Complexity of Indigenous Identity and Politics: The article makes clear that the political landscape of Indigenous peoples is not monolithic. This is not represented in all traditional media. The use of the phrase “Make Indian Country Great Again” suggests a complex and contested concept within the Indigenous community itself.
Bridging Divides: TATANKA appears to be an initiative that aims to bridge divides and bring together diverse perspectives to seek a new way forward.
Holistic Approach: TATANKA’s mission, combining technology, sustainability, and Indigenous wisdom, suggests a holistic approach to addressing the challenges of Native communities, and the world at large.
Call for Action: The narrative involving WíiyayA serves as a stark reminder that despite political celebrations, the fight for Indigenous justice and recognition is ongoing.

6. Conclusion

The “Make Indian Country Great Again” post provides a snapshot of the diverse opinions and ongoing struggles within Indigenous communities. While some see the new political administration as an opportunity for positive change, others remain skeptical and concerned, highlighting systemic neglect and the ongoing battle for sovereignty and cultural preservation. The TATANKA initiative seems to be a platform aimed at amplifying these voices, and seeking to integrate Indigenous values into the future via technology, sustainability, art, and music. This approach suggests a potentially innovative model for future development. This report highlights the importance of understanding these diverse perspectives and the continued need for advocacy and action.

7. Next Steps

Further research into TATANKA’s specific projects and initiatives.
Analysis of other content on the TATANKA site, including the related posts.
Exploration of the impact of technology and AI on Indigenous communities.

This detailed briefing document provides a thorough analysis of the provided source, incorporating key themes, quotes, and contextual information.

FAQ

What is TATANKA and what is its mission?

TATANKA is a multifaceted project described as a “Music Meets Mission” endeavor. Its mission encompasses a broad range of goals including promoting Indigenous rights, cultural preservation, economic development, sustainable practices, and social justice. It seems to integrate AI, music, and various global perspectives, including Indigenous wisdom, to achieve these objectives. TATANKA also references a “Humanist Blueprint,” the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and radical inclusion.

Why did some Indigenous people support Donald Trump, and what were their key concerns?

Despite historical tensions, some Indigenous people supported Donald Trump due to a variety of factors, including the desire for economic development in tribal communities, improved healthcare services (specifically within the Indian Health Service or IHS), and stronger protection of tribal sovereignty. Many also cited a desire for a return of religious values to national discourse and opposition to abortion. These supporters believed his administration would address long-standing issues in Indian Country.

What specific issues related to tribal sovereignty were Indigenous Trump supporters concerned about?

Many supporters expressed concerns that tribal sovereignty was being eroded and called for stronger protections for tribal governance. They felt that existing regulations and programs were inefficient and burdensome, and sought streamlined processes and reduced regulatory burdens. They hoped for policies that would respect and enhance the autonomy of tribal governments.

How does the experience of WíiyayA at the Trump inauguration highlight the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples?

WíiyayA’s story contrasts sharply with the optimism of some Indigenous Trump supporters. It emphasizes the ongoing struggles of marginalized groups and the feeling of being invisible and unheard despite being present at a significant political event. The narrative underscores the persistent issues of land theft, cultural erasure, and systemic neglect experienced by Native Americans, and how even seemingly positive political moments can feel hollow for those who continue to face such challenges. Her experience highlights the disconnect between political promises and the lived realities of Indigenous people.

How does TATANKA use AI in its work?

TATANKA appears to integrate AI in multiple ways, including through the persona of Sofia, described as an AI humanoid at the heart of the project. The provided materials also reference “AI Gen” content, which suggests that AI is being used in the generation of music, articles, and other content within the project. It also mentions DeepSeek News which references AI breakthroughs.

How does TATANKA relate to the concept of a “global indigenous south”?

TATANKA’s work engages with the idea of a “global indigenous south” which suggests a focus on connecting with and supporting indigenous communities and perspectives worldwide. This is evidenced by references to aligning with global Indigenous wisdom and the development of a “BRICS+” (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and potentially other nations) project. TATANKA sees indigenous perspectives and cultural preservation as vital in fostering positive global changes and sustainability.

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What does the quote by Sitting Bull mean for the mission of TATANKA?

The quote by Sitting Bull, “It is through this mysterious power that we too have our being, and we therefore yield to our neighbors, even to our animal neighbors, the same right as ourselves to inhabit this vast land,” seems to align perfectly with TATANKA’s mission. It highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of respecting the rights of all, including animals and nature. This interconnectedness, and respect for the earth, appears to be a driving philosophy for TATANKA and is essential to its goals of promoting a sustainable future.

What other initiatives does TATANKA seem to be involved in based on the related posts and tags?

Beyond the core themes, TATANKA’s related posts and tags indicate involvement in a wide array of initiatives, including AI research, the future of AI, music production, support for LGBTQ+ artists, tech innovation, economic development in Africa, and exploring issues of social justice and representation. It’s a diverse project engaging with multiple intersecting issues in addition to its focus on indigenous cultures. They also seem to have a keen interest in “Digital Transformation” and developing “smart cities” while encouraging “global startup ecosystems”.

Indigenous Voices & Political Engagement: A Study Guide

Short Answer Quiz

What were some of the key issues that motivated Indigenous supporters of Donald Trump?
Who is WíiyayA and what does her name mean?
What specific concerns about tribal sovereignty were voiced by Indigenous leaders at the event?
What was the Navajo Nation Washington Office Reception and who attended?
What role did Darnell Cooper and her son play at the inauguration events?
What does the article mean by “Make Indian Country Great Again” and how does that resonate with WíiyayA?
How did weather and security affect the attendance at the event?
What is the significance of the quote by Sitting Bull included at the bottom of the document?
What does the article suggest about the relationship between political promises and the realities of Native Americans?
What is TATANKA and how does it relate to the content of the article?

Answer Key

Economic development, increased funding and efficiency in the Indian Health Service (IHS), stronger tribal governance protections (sovereignty), anti-abortion stance, national security and military support, and the re-introduction of faith into American life were key issues that motivated Indigenous Trump supporters.
WíiyayA, meaning “Hope” in Lakota Sioux, is a fictional character representing the perspective of a Native American individual who feels unheard and overlooked amidst the political rally. She highlights the ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples, despite the rhetoric of improvement.
Indigenous leaders expressed concerns about the erosion of tribal sovereignty and called for stronger tribal governance protections, as well as reduced regulatory burdens and streamlined programs for Native communities.
The Navajo Nation Washington Office Reception was held to welcome the new administration and 119th Congress and included tribal officials, activists, and allies like Arizona Rep. Eli Crane, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, and former Vice President Myron Lizer.
Darnell Cooper, a Navajo Navy veteran, brought her 17-year-old son to the inauguration as part of his homeschool curriculum, emphasizing the importance of first-hand experience with historical events.
“Make Indian Country Great Again” is presented as a political slogan. However, WíiyayA finds it ironic and hollow given the systemic challenges faced by Native Americans, like poverty and erasure, in the face of unfulfilled promises from the U.S. government.
Attendees braved cold and rainy weather and heightened security to attend, demonstrating a strong commitment to their political engagement despite these obstacles.
The quote emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings, reinforcing the importance of respecting and sharing the land and rights, and serves as a commentary on Indigenous values.
The article suggests that political promises, like “Make Indian Country Great Again,” often fail to address the lived experiences of Native Americans, and can even feel like a cruel joke due to broken treaties and unfulfilled commitments.
TATANKA, a multimedia project, hosts the article and other content related to Indigenous issues, AI, and more; the project seems to blend themes of social justice, technology, and music.

Essay Questions

Analyze the various motivations of Indigenous people who support Donald Trump, as presented in the article, and discuss how these motives intersect or diverge from mainstream political perspectives.
Explore the symbolism and significance of the character WíiyayA and her experience at the inauguration rally. How does her perspective challenge the idea of a unified Indigenous political voice?
Discuss the complexities of tribal sovereignty within the context of U.S. politics. How do the different viewpoints presented in the article illustrate the ongoing struggles of Native Nations to be recognized and self-governed?
How does the article frame the relationship between political promises and the real-world issues faced by Native American communities? Consider the article’s commentary on the “Make Indian Country Great Again” slogan and how it is perceived by WíiyayA.
Evaluate the role of music, technology, and AI as it relates to TATANKA’s mission, as presented in the additional information on the website. How do these elements enhance or complicate TATANKA’s goals to serve marginalized groups?

Glossary of Key Terms

Tribal Sovereignty: The inherent authority of Indigenous nations to govern themselves and their territories.
Indian Health Service (IHS): A federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that provides healthcare to Native Americans and Alaska Natives.
Lakota Sioux: A Native American tribe and one of the three main groups of the Sioux Nation.
Pine Ridge Reservation: The reservation of the Oglala Lakota tribe, located in South Dakota.
TATANKA: A multimedia project with a self-declared mission of fusing music with a focus on social justice, inclusion, and the application of technology.
Matriarchal Lens: A perspective that emphasizes the importance and leadership of women in cultural, social, and political systems.
AI Humanoid: A term describing an artificial intelligence that is embodied in a physical, human-like form.
Project 2025: A presidential transition plan by conservative organizations to shape the future of the executive branch of the U.S. government.
BRICS+: A term referring to an expansion of the BRICS economic group of nations with possible inclusion of other Global South countries, often associated with a shift toward economic independence from Western institutions.
DeepSeek: A self-described company focused on artificial intelligence and its applications, possibly related to AI 2.0, mentioned in the source material.
WíiyayA: A fictional character in the article that represents the complex experience of Native Americans who feel unseen, unheard, and overlooked in mainstream political discourse.
The Global South: A term for developing or less industrialized nations, often in the southern hemisphere, that have unique perspectives and shared histories of colonialism and exploitation.
“Music Meets Mission”: The explicit purpose of TATANKA, that blends artistic creation with goals of social change.