Gary Davis: A new day for economic prosperity in Indian Country

Native American businesses are leading in many emerging fields, with some tribes considering the possibility of growing marijuana in states that have legalized it for recreational and medicinal use. Though it is early and there are unanswered questions about the legal status of marijuana, it could certainly present an opportunity for some tribes.

Let’s not forget what’s at stake when we talk about economic development for American Indian people. Though some tribal nations have found success through gaming, economic prosperity has not made it to every corner of Indian Country, especially for those tribal communities located in remote locations.

The statistics for our people can indeed be staggering. According to 2014 data, the Native American unemployment rate is nearly double that of the country as a whole, while some reservations experience poverty levels that exceed 50 percent. Over 25 percent of Native Americans live in poverty, and health and educational attainment are persistent concerns in our community.

In trying to address these problems, tribes find themselves still dependent upon the federal government, and often unable to break away from the bureaucratic chains that stifle development. Even when programs are in place to help Native American businesses, it can take years and even centuries for their promise to become even close to being realized.

Moving forward, the federal government can certainly do more to help us establish a new day in Indian Country by living up to its commitment to tribes, and allowing them to exercise sovereignty and self-determination over their economic futures. The result would be not only a more prosperous Indian Country, but a more prosperous America.