Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition Awarded by Harvard for Excellence in Indigenous Governance

Celebrating the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition

The Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition (BEITC) has recently been recognized nationally for its outstanding efforts in Indigenous governance and land stewardship. This honor was facilitated by the Harvard Project on Indigenous Governance and Development through the prestigious Honoring Nations Awards, which celebrates exceptional governmental initiatives by Indigenous tribes across the United States.

Founded by the Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Zuni Tribe, and Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, the Coalition showcases a model of collaboration and cultural stewardship that embraces Traditional Knowledge and democratic practices.

The award ceremony marked a significant milestone in BEITC's journey, particularly highlighting the 2025 finalization of the Bears Ears Resource Management Plan. This plan represents a groundbreaking commitment to Tribal-federal collaboration, making it a unique milestone as it integrates Tribal perspectives into national monument management. As Anthony Sanchez Jr., Co-Chair of the BEITC and Head Councilman of the Zuni Tribe, articulated, the Coalition's work emphasizes responsibility and cultural legacy, reminding us that these lands are embedded with the history and footsteps of ancestors.

Furthermore, BEITC's achievements extend beyond management strategies. They actively engage in programs designed to empower youth and celebrate cultural heritage, supporting a holistic approach to environmental and community stewardship. Davina Smith (Diné) and fellow Co-Chair of the BEITC expressed gratitude toward all partners invested in their mission, emphasizing the crucial role of community members in fostering this progress.

As part of the Honoring Nations Awards, BEITC joins a network of 142 other awardees and receives considerable national recognition. The award not only honors their contributions but also serves as inspiration for other Indigenous initiatives across the nation.

The awards ceremony also highlighted the exceptional work of other Indigenous programs. Noteworthy recognitions went to the Cherokee Nation for pioneering healthcare solutions, the Jicarilla Apache Nation for its groundbreaking water-sharing agreement, and the Lummi Nation for its community-centered services that promote healing and unity. These examples underscore a collective effort towards innovative governance and community enrichment within Indigenous circles.

As the BEITC continues its mission, it serves as a beacon for Indigenous governance, embodying the essential aspects of stewardship, responsibility, and resilience. Their work in protecting the cultural landscape of Bears Ears is a testament to what is possible when communities unite for a shared purpose. Through these efforts, BEITC is not just preserving the heritage of its people, but also setting an example for future generations, reminding us all of the enduring importance of respecting and caring for the land.

This recognition from Harvard reaffirms the vital role of Indigenous governance and sets a foundation for more collaborative efforts between Tribal Nations and federal authorities. It calls for a broader acknowledgment of Indigenous voices and methods in managing and protecting our shared natural resources. For those interested in learning more about this project and engaging with its larger mission, follow BEITC on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.

In an age where Indigenous environmental stewardship is increasingly crucial, the work of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition stands as a powerful example of how Tribal governance can meet contemporary challenges with traditional wisdom and collaboration.