President Bush on Monday appointed a new chairman of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, replacing a Clinton administration appointee who has been critical of the Bush administration.

Under chairwoman Mary Frances Berry, the commission issued a crucial report in July 2003. "A Quiet Crisis: Federal Funding and Unmet Needs in Indian Country" documented how federal funds for Indian programs have not kept up with inflation or need. The report has been cited widely by tribal leaders as they make their case for increased resources.

A year later, the commission drafted a report addressing health care. "Broken Promises: Evaluating the Native American Health Care System" details how health care disparities are the result of lack of funding.

Berry is being replaced by Gerald A. Reynolds, a former assistant secretary in the Department of Education's Civil Rights Office. Berry's term expires this month.

Get the Story:
Bush Replaces Head of Panel on Civil Rights (The New York Times 12/7)
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Reports:
Broken Promises: Evaluating the Native American Health Care System (July 2004) | A Quiet Crisis: Federal Funding and Unmet Needs in Indian Country (July 2003)

Relevant Links:
United States Commission on Civil Rights - http://www.usccr.gov

Related Stories:
Report calls on U.S. to honor health care commitment (08/30)
Editorial: U.S. failing to provide Indian health care (08/30)
Navajos turn out for civil rights commission hearing (05/03)
Civil rights panel to hold hearing in Farmington (04/29)
Report documents unmet needs in Indian Country (7/23)