In a recent announcement, President Joe Biden has nominated Patrice H. Kunesh to serve as the chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). Kunesh’s extensive background in Native American affairs and her diverse legal and administrative experiences make her a notable choice for this pivotal role.
Current Role and Responsibilities
Patrice H. Kunesh currently holds the position of Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs and serves as the Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans within the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Her role involves overseeing and promoting the welfare of Native American communities through various programs and initiatives.
Background and Career Highlights
Kunesh’s legal and professional career is marked by significant contributions to Native American rights and development. She began her legal career at the Native American Rights Fund, an organization dedicated to the protection and advancement of Native American legal rights. Her early career also includes serving as in-house Counsel to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, where she provided legal guidance on a range of tribal issues.
Her academic contributions include a faculty position at the University of South Dakota School of Law, where she helped shape the education and understanding of future legal professionals regarding Native American law and issues.
In addition to her work in legal and educational spheres, Kunesh has held several high-profile government appointments. She served as the Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, where she focused on the development and support of rural communities, including Native American populations.
Kunesh also held the role of Deputy Solicitor for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. In this capacity, she provided legal counsel on Indian affairs, advocating for the rights and interests of Native American tribes.
Further showcasing her dedication to Native American communities, Kunesh was a member of the U.S. Treasury Community Development Advisory Board (CDFI Fund), where she represented Native communities and worked towards enhancing economic development opportunities.
Founding Initiatives and Consulting Work
Kunesh’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish the Center for Indian Country Development, an organization aimed at fostering economic development and providing support for Native American communities. She also founded Peȟíŋ Haha Consulting, a firm that provides expert consulting services on Native American affairs, further extending her impact and influence in the field.
Significance of the Nomination
The nomination of Patrice H. Kunesh as chairman of the NIGC represents a strategic move by the Biden administration to strengthen the commission’s leadership with someone who has a deep understanding of Native American issues and a proven track record of service in related roles. The NIGC plays a crucial role in regulating and overseeing the Indian gaming industry, ensuring that tribal gaming operations are conducted fairly and in compliance with federal regulations.
Kunesh’s extensive experience in both governmental and tribal settings positions her well to address the complex challenges facing the Indian gaming industry. Her appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to supporting the rights and interests of Native American tribes.
Patrice H. Kunesh’s nomination as chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission underscores the Biden administration’s focus on elevating leaders with substantial expertise in Native American affairs. Her distinguished career, marked by significant roles in legal, governmental, and consulting capacities, aligns well with the objectives of the NIGC. As she prepares to take on this new role, Kunesh’s background and experience promise to contribute positively to the oversight and development of the Indian gaming industry.