Monthly Archives: February 2023

Advancing Indigenous innovation and alliances at ASU Law

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On Feb. 21, the Indian Legal Program hosted a meeting between Tribal leaders and representatives and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to develop collaborations to support innovation in Indian Country. Kathi Vidal, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property & Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) attended, along with Lead Judge Georgianna Braden of the Patent Trial and Appeals Board, and Attorney Advisor Susan Anthony of the USPTO Office of Policy and International Affairs. Racquel Black of Change Labs provided they keynote presentation. The Tribes and the USPTO discussed new programs to advance creativity and innovation on Tribal lands while respecting Tribal sovereignty, especially over traditional knowledge, cultural expressions, and genetic resources.

We extend our thanks to the USPTO, the Navajo Nation Division of Economic Development, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and the McCarthy Institute for their support of the Indian Legal Program’s efforts to promote Indigenous innovation.

ILP alum receives ABA Spirit of Excellence award

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On Feb. 4, Diandra Benally (’05) was awarded the American Bar Association’s 2023 Spirit of Excellence award. This title is awarded annually to legal professionals that demonstrate excellence and commitment to diversity in law. 

Diandra is the first female general counsel of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, a former special assistant U.S. attorney and former staff attorney with the Navajo Nation Department of Justice. She has also served on the National Native American Bar Association, the Native American Bar Association of Arizona and the Navajo Nation Bar Association.

In a true show of support, some of your ILP family traveled to New Orleans to celebrate an extraordinary recognition. Congratulations, Diandra!

ASU Indian Legal Clinic filed Amicus Brief

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On Feb. 8, the Indian Legal Clinic (ILC) filed an amicus brief on behalf of the Diné Hataałii Association in Arizona v. Navajo Nation. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments on Monday, March 20, 2023. Congratulations to ILC Faculty Director Patty Ferguson-Bohnee, Director Derrick Beetso (’10) and ILP students Clayton Kinsey (2L), Maryam Salazar (2L), Natalia Sells (2L) and Chelsi Tsosie (2L) for their efforts in drafting the brief. We also appreciate Law Fellow Honore Callingham (’18) for her assistance in preparing the brief for filing.

The brief informs the Court on traditional Diné principles that support the Navajo Nation’s position. The team is humbled the Hataałiis, as the stewards of this sacred knowledge, entrusted the Indian Legal Clinic to represent their interest, and hope the brief helps the Court better understand the Navajo Nation’s treaties with the United States and how the Navajo signatories would have understood them.

“As a Diné law student, this case pertains to an issue that affects my family, my home, and my culture,” said Chelsi. “Knowing that and having the opportunity to assist in preparing an amicus brief that conveys the Diné perspective − the way we view the world and natural law around us − to the Court is an experience that will stay with me forever.” 

Job Opportunity: Staff Attorney

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Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians
Odanah, WI

Application Requirements:
• Must submit complete Bad River Tribal Application and Resume
• Transcripts
• Salary requirement
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Writing sample and
• Copy of Active license to practice law or eligibility to apply for Wisconsin State Bar Admission

Summary: The Staff Attorney works with the tribal government in all areas of Tribal law and Federal Indian law.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Advising on issues involving the delivery of government services to Tribal members, including jurisdiction, tribal property, civil rights, environmental law, and interpretation of social and family services and health services delivery to community members including child welfare services. Responsibilities may range from reviewing and editing draft documents to the provision of brief counsel and services to tribal government programs in meeting preparation or meeting settings, representing the Tribe in Tribal, state, and federal court, to advising and developing codes and policies for tribal government decision-making.
Qualification Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. The person in this position must be self-motivated and able to work with minimal direction.

See job announcement for full description and application details.

Job Opportunities: The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

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Lower Elwha Klallam Justice Center
Port Angeles, WA
 
The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe is dedicated to fully exercising its sovereignty to prevent and reduce criminal activity and victimization on the Reservation. At the same time, pursuant to the Lower Elwha Constitution, Article VII, Bill of Rights, the Lower Elwha Judicial Code §§ 1.2, 6.11(3)(c), and the Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968, 25 U.S.C. § 1302(a)(8), the Tribe is dedicated to affording due process to all persons subject to the Tribe’s authority.

Tribal Defense Attorney job announcement 

  • Closing Date: February 17, 2023

Chief Judge job announcement

  • Closing Date: February 18, 2023

Tribal Deputy Prosecutor job announcement

  • Closing Date: February 17, 2023