Bryan Newland Ceremonially Sworn In as Interior Department Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs

09/08/2021
Last edited 09/08/2021

Date: Wednesday, September 8, 2021
Contact: Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov

WASHINGTON — Bryan Newland was ceremonially sworn in today as Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs by Secretary Deb Haaland. Bryan is a citizen of the Bay Mills Indian Community (Ojibwe), where he recently completed his tenure as Tribal President.

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“Bryan has worked on behalf of Indigenous peoples and Indian Country for decades. His wealth of experience will advance the Department’s commitment to ensuring Tribes have a seat at the table for every decision that impacts them and their communities,” said Secretary Haaland. “From clean energy projects and economic development to addressing past injustices against Tribal communities, Bryan will lead with the knowledge that we best serve Indigenous peoples when Tribal governments are empowered to lead their communities.”

“I am honored to be back at the Department of the Interior working on behalf of Tribal communities and alongside a historic Secretary,” said Assistant Secretary Newland. “The Biden-Harris administration has made clear its priorities to respect Tribal sovereignty and self-governance, fulfill federal trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations, and make regular, meaningful and robust consultation with Tribal Nations cornerstones of federal Indian policy. I am committed to engaging with Tribes every step of the way and ensuring they have the support and resources they need to fully thrive.”

Before serving as Tribal President of the Bay Mills Indian Community, Bryan served as Chief Judge of the Bay Mills Tribal Court. From 2009 to 2012, he served as a Counselor and Policy Advisor to the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs. Bryan is a graduate of Michigan State University and the Michigan State University College of Law. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and kayaking the shores of Lake Superior and is a nature photography enthusiast.

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