
The Senate confirmed Keith Harper as ambassador to the United Nations Human Rights Council Tuesday, making him the first Native American to ever become a U.S. ambassador.
Harper is an attorney who was one of the lawyers behind a landmark class-action lawsuit brought by Native Americans against the federal government. President Barack Obama first nominated him in June 2013.
“I’m pleased that my colleagues have voted to appoint another historic first for Indian Country,” said Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Chairman Jon Tester (D-Mont.) in a statement. “As a longtime advocate for the civil rights of Native Americans, Keith will be a great Ambassador for our country.”
A member of the Cherokee Nation, Harper helped represent around 500,000 Native Americans who brought a class-action suit — Cobell v. Salazar — against the United States in the 1990s over alleged federal mismanagement of revenue from mines and oil wells owned by Native Americans.
Harper’s confirmation was approved by a party-line vote of 52-42 and was hailed by Native American groups as a positive step forward.
“Keith’s confirmation is of great accomplishment for all of Indian Country,” said Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly in a statement.
Our members receive special discounts on INBA and other community events, as well as member-to-member discounts on products and services.
There are several membership options, choose the one that best suits your business, or join as an individual!
Reach out if you are in crisis:
Trevor Project – Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth: thetrevorproject.org
Trans Lifeline – by trans people, for trans people:
877-565-8860
24/7 Crisis Text line:
741741
24/7 Sexual Assault Crisis Line:
509-624-7273
First call for help:
509-838-4651
Odyssey Youth Movement:
509-325-3637
The INBA gathers local, national, and international news articles relevant to business and community and sends out a newsletter regularly. We would love to add you to our list of newsletter recipients!
The INBA gathers local, national, and international news articles relevant to business and community and sends out a newsletter regularly. We would love to add you to our list of newsletter recipients!
Develop a prosperous business community by advocating LGBT and Ally business perspectives.
Mail
PO Box 10145
Spokane, WA 99209
Phone
509-402-INBA (4622)