New Mexico Indian Affairs Department

The New Mexico Indian Affairs Department (IAD), located in Santa Fe, is a state government agency with a staff of three. Established in 2003, the IAD is the first cabinet-level state Indian affairs department in the United States. The IAD focuses on developing and implementing state-tribal policies that aim to enhance the well-being of New Mexico's Indian citizens. Their initiatives concentrate on bolstering relationships between tribes and the state, tackling communal challenges, and promoting economic development, infrastructure improvement, cultural preservation, healthcare access, and educational opportunities for children. As a pioneering department, the IAD sets a benchmark for collaboration between sovereign governments. They strive to foster respectful and productive dialogue between state and tribal authorities to address shared concerns. To learn more about the IAD's work and initiatives, visit their website at iad.state.nm.us.