President Joe Biden is set to formally apologize for the historical abuses of Native American boarding schools, a move long awaited by former students and their families. This apology comes after a comprehensive investigation led by the Interior Department under Secretary Deb Haaland, which highlighted the traumatic legacy of these institutions. The Biden administration has taken significant steps to support Indigenous communities, including increased funding for language programs and infrastructure projects, and reviving the White House Council on Native American Affairs. The apology is part of broader efforts to heal and strengthen the relationship between the federal government and tribal nations.

The removal of four dams on the Klamath River marks a significant environmental and cultural milestone, celebrated by tribes and environmentalists who fought for two decades to restore the river's ecosystem. The project, the largest dam removal to date, aims to revive salmon populations and restore ancestral lands to the Shasta Indian Nation. The effort involved multiple tribes, including the Karuk, Yurok, and Klamath Tribes, and received support from government agencies. The restoration is seen as a healing process for both the natural world and the communities affected by the dams, with ongoing efforts to ensure the return of salmon to their spawning grounds.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and other Democratic figures are actively engaging with Native American communities in Arizona and other battleground states to strengthen the 'tribal wall' of voters crucial for the upcoming 2024 elections. The Democratic Party is emphasizing its commitment to tribal sovereignty and Native American rights, with Walz highlighting the Biden administration's efforts to support tribal nations. The article also notes the involvement of prominent figures like Stacey Abrams and Mark Hamill in advocating for Native voter participation. Concerns about environmental issues, such as a uranium mine near sacred sites, were raised by tribal leaders, with Walz promising to communicate these to Vice President Kamala Harris. The piece underscores the strategic importance of Native votes in key states and the Democratic Party's efforts to secure them.

Turkey vultures play a crucial ecological role as nature's cleanup crew, migrating with the seasons to find food. Their migration patterns are closely observed by Indigenous peoples like the Xolon Salinan Tribe, who use them to predict weather changes. The birds are known for their remarkable sense of smell and digestive systems that help them consume decaying carcasses, thus preventing the spread of diseases. Despite threats from human activities and certain medications, vulture populations are recovering, aided by legal protections. The article highlights the cultural significance of vultures to Indigenous communities and their adaptability to environmental changes.

The Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe successfully blocked a third gold mining project on their sacred lands in the Cargo Muchacho Mountains, California. The Imperial County Board of Supervisors voted against the Oro Cruz exploratory gold mining project proposed by Southern Empire Resources. The area, rich in cultural and environmental significance, faced threats from mining activities. The tribe, supported by environmentalists, raised concerns about cultural damage and water sources. The tribe is also advocating for the creation of a new national monument to protect culturally important lands along the Colorado River.

Nicole Aunapu Mann, the first Indigenous woman in space, shared her inspiring journey from childhood dreams of military service to commanding a mission to the International Space Station. Speaking at Estrella Community College, Mann emphasized the importance of education, perseverance, and support systems. Her career highlights include serving as a Marine, test pilot, and NASA astronaut, culminating in her role as commander of SpaceX's Crew-5 mission. Mann's experiences in space, including scientific experiments and overcoming challenges, have given her a unique perspective on Earth's beauty and fragility. She continues to inspire youth, particularly in underrepresented communities, to pursue careers in space and STEM fields.

Tribes with lands and water rights in the Colorado River Basin are demanding equal status in the development of new river management guidelines and protection of their senior water rights against proposed cuts. Leaders from 20 tribes, including eight in Arizona, sent a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation outlining their expectations for the new guidelines effective after December 31, 2026. The Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Gila River Indian Community, holding the largest water allocations in Arizona, did not sign the letter. Tribes are advocating for a greater role in creating new management protocols, with some progress seen in their representation in the Arizona Governor's Water Policy Council. The tribal leaders' letter emphasizes the need to uphold tribal water rights, provide flexibility in water usage, and ensure formalized tribal participation in policy development. The Gila River Indian Community has expressed readiness to oppose plans that do not align with their principles and are seeking alternative water sources or compensation for any cuts.

The Cocopah Tribe, along with two other Arizona tribal communities, is undertaking riparian restoration initiatives funded by grants from the U.S. Department of the Interior and private funders. The Cocopah Tribe received $5 million from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and additional funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bonneville Environmental Foundation to remove invasive species and replant native trees along the Colorado River. The projects aim to restore habitat for native wildlife and involve the creation of a youth corps. The Bureau of Indian Affairs awarded $1.45 million to the Cocopah, Pascua Yaqui, and White Mountain Apache tribes for various climate resilience projects. The Pascua Yaqui Tribe and White Mountain Apache Tribe received grants for a climate adaption plan and watershed protection project, respectively. The funding is part of efforts to enable tribes to address climate change with Indigenous knowledge and protect their homelands.

A uranium mine near the Grand Canyon has commenced operations despite opposition from tribes and environmentalists. Energy Fuels Inc. began mining at the Pinyon Plain Mine, citing higher uranium prices and government support for nuclear power. The Havasupai Tribe and environmental groups fear groundwater contamination and cultural damage. Legal and regulatory frameworks, including a 2012 mining ban and a 2023 national monument designation, have not halted the mine. The Biden administration prioritizes nuclear power for a net-zero energy grid, while opponents remain skeptical of the mine's safety assurances.

Drumbeat Indian Arts, a long-standing Phoenix shop catering to Native American artists and cultural needs, is closing after 51 years due to declining sales, rising prices, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Owner Bob Nuss, who has been a significant figure in the community, decided to retire and close the store. The shop has been a vital resource for beaders and regalia makers, offering a wide range of supplies. Reva Stewart, the store manager, plans to continue serving the community by opening her own shop, Shush Diné Native Shop, maintaining the tradition of providing essential supplies and fostering community connections.