PIERRE, S.D. — In a significant start to the 2025 legislative session, J. Garrett Renville, chairman of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, took center stage at the South Dakota House chambers to deliver the influential State of the Tribes address. This pivotal event highlights South Dakota’s nine tribes as they collectively project a message of unity, underscoring the importance of revitalizing state and tribal relations amidst a changing political landscape.
Renville’s call to “reset” the relationship between state and tribal governments resonates deeply with both legislators and tribal leaders. “Today, let’s rebuild,” Renville urged, emphasizing the need to listen and genuinely hear the voices of Indian Country, reminding all that “Indian country is not a political party. We are Pte Oyate — ‘buffalo people.'” His words are a beacon, signifying hope and the prospect of collaborative progress between South Dakota and its tribes.
As the political dynamics in South Dakota shift with Gov. Kristi Noem’s impending exit, an opportunity for renewed dialogue and cooperation emerges. Noem’s tenure has been marred by a breakdown in state-tribal diplomacy, marked by controversial remarks that led to her banishment by all nine tribes in 2024. This pivotal event has opened a door for a new beginning, with tribal leaders optimistic about improved relations under incoming leadership.
One of the significant strides in fostering cooperation is the successful tribal police academy, an initiative supported by Attorney General Marty Jackley and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Hosted at the state’s George S. Nicholson Criminal Justice Center, the academy graduated nine tribal officers and 12 officers from across the state, addressing some pressing concerns regarding public safety in tribal territories.
The issue of law enforcement funding remains a critical concern for South Dakota’s rural tribal communities. Renville highlighted the inadequacies in federal funding, which have left tribes like the Crow Creek Sioux and Lower Brule with only a handful of officers, stretching their resources thin. “This is a serious problem,” Renville emphasized, urging the legislature to continue their support in rectifying this imbalance.
In the realm of legislation, Renville appealed to lawmakers to support House Bill 1018, which advocates for transparency in online sales tax revenue reporting to tribal governments. The promised revenue represents a significant step toward honoring commitments made to these communities.
Education also took center stage in Renville’s address, with the tribes eager to be consulted on new education bills. These proposals, including those concerning education savings accounts and funding formulas, could significantly impact Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) students. Renville also supported returning the state Office of Indian Education to the Department of Education to better appreciate and educate about South Dakota’s American Indian culture. “To be able to do this in partnership, it makes complete sense to reintroduce the Indian Education Advisory Council with education representatives from all nine South Dakota tribes,” Renville stated.
Looking ahead, the reconfiguration of South Dakota’s political sphere—with Noem poised to lead the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Sen. John Thune taking over Republican Senate leadership, and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson navigating a divided House—presents new avenues for state and tribal leaders to work closely on improving conditions in Indian Country.
In summary, the 2025 State of the Tribes address delivered by J. Garrett Renville sets a hopeful tone for South Dakota. It is a reminder of the shared commitment to unity, progress, and a renewed focus on cooperation between the state and its tribal nations, shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all involved.