1. Know Your Terms: The term Native American is an inclusive term of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Many indigenous Americans living in the lower 48 states refer to themselves as Indian. However, many Alaska Natives find the term to be disrespectful. Native Hawaiians are not federally recognized as a tribe. However, they are included in several programs offered by federal agencies.

2. Do your research: Tribes are sovereign nations, and what works for one tribe might not work for another. You must understand the unique aspects of each tribe and know the formal leadership structure. Tribal nations hold elections and have a formal leadership protocol which must be honored.

3. Make a formal request to the tribe: Bringing tribal leaders to the table to discuss important topics would be a good way to start a dialogue. However, you must follow the proper protocols and ensure that no leader or their designee is left out. This includes entering an Indian reservation. Always make sure you have a point of contact who has given approval for you to conduct business on tribal land.

4. Understand your policies: Ensure that your organization’s policies are inclusive and considerate of Native workers' needs. Work directly with tribal leaders to find out how your organization can provide better services to their respective communities. Eliminate any discrimination or unfair treatment in your workplace. Being a model employer will attract job seekers and workers. Support the work of the Tribal Employment Rights Organizations (TERO). The OFCCP regulation at 41 CFR 60-1.5(a)(7) “Work on or near Indian Reservations” is often referred to by tribal officials when discussing Indian Preference. It is imperative that your staff understand the benefits of implementing Indian Preference. This can boost economic development in tribal communities and create more job opportunities for workers.

5. Promote initiatives: Promote workforce development and job training initiatives that focus on building a skilled workforce in tribal communities. The Department of Labor launched a Tribal Consultation Training Course that explains the concepts of tribal consultation, the nation-to-nation relationship with tribal nations, and tribal sovereignty. Consider developing both internal and external trainings and initiatives to support tribal communities.

6. Ask about specific needs: Native American workers often face unique challenges such as, living in a remote location, where job training opportunities are scarce and very few jobs exist. When there are opportunities for employment, many jobs are temporary. There are also challenges with transportation and childcare if a person must commute a long distance to work and they must find someone reliable to care for their children. Once you hear the needs, collaborate with tribal leaders to identify solutions like on-site childcare, transit subsidies, or group transportation options.

7. Support active engagement: Actively engage with tribal communities and tribal leaders to better understand their specific needs as it relates to the workplace. Extend invitations to job fairs and workforce development events. Attend tribal events and take an active role in the planning, preparation and follow-up of these events. Never over-promise and under-deliver.

8. Build relationships: By building relationships and collaborating with tribal leaders it can help you tailor your programs to meet their needs more effectively. The foundation to successful programs and initiatives is trust, and this is developed through consensus building. One-time events do not build relationships. Consider hiring a tribal representative or liaison to dedicate the time and effort into building relationships in the tribal community.

9. Stay current with trainings: Participate in cultural awareness and sensitivity training to better understand and respect Native cultures. Showing respect and cultural sensitivity can go a long way in building trust and positive relationships with Native American workers and colleagues.

10. Participate in ongoing outreach: Continue participating in events and activities throughout the year that are significant to tribes, not just during National Native American Heritage Month. This will assist you to remain aware of current issues, strengthen your relationships, and foster a sense of unity and understanding.

 

The US Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) works with Federal contractors to expand recruitment and employment opportunities to AI/ANs by linking contractors with tribal workforce development and Tribal Employment Rights Organizations (TERO).