Governor Katie Hobbs has achieved a significant milestone by visiting all 22 federally recognized tribes in Arizona, marking a first for the state’s leadership. Her efforts, spanning nearly three and a half years, have focused on building partnerships and addressing the unique needs of each Tribal Nation.
Strengthening Tribal Partnerships
Hobbs’ visits began shortly after her inauguration in January 2023, with her first meetings involving listening sessions with federal boarding school survivors. Over the course of her term, she has made 35 visits to Tribal Nations, with some tribes receiving multiple visits.
Jason Chavez, director of Tribal Affairs in the Governor’s Office and a Tohono O’odham citizen, played a key role in organizing these visits. He emphasized the diverse priorities of each tribe, which include water rights, public safety, infrastructure, healthcare, gaming, and education.
Addressing Urgent Issues
Some visits were ceremonial, while others addressed urgent issues. In July 2024, Hobbs visited the San Carlos Apache Tribe to assess damage from the Watch Fire, which destroyed over 20 homes. She directed $400,000 in support and advocated for federal disaster assistance, which was later granted.
Hobbs’ administration also facilitated a land exchange agreement for the Hopi Tribe, fulfilling a long-standing promise under the 1996 Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute Settlement Act. This agreement involved transferring 110,000 acres of state trust land to the Hopi Tribe.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite these efforts, some Indigenous leaders express frustration with the state’s progress on issues like the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis. Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis highlighted the need for a coordinated statewide MMIP database, which remains incomplete.
Hobbs’ visits have been seen as a step toward rebuilding trust, with Chavez noting the importance of consistent engagement rather than appearing only during election seasons. However, as Hobbs launches her reelection campaign, some tribal members remain cautious about the state’s commitment to resolving ongoing challenges.
Original reporting: Arizona Luminaria — read the source article.
