Introduction
The Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs was created by the General
Assembly in 1976 to represent and serve the state "Native American" community.
As the official statewide agency for Native Americans, the Commission initiates and supports
activities that affect Native American in Maryland and further
the understanding of Native American history and culture.
By providing a forum for communication, the Commission
encourages cooperation and the exchange of ideas among Native
American in the state. The Commission also provides vital
liaison between Maryland's Native Americans and the state and
federal governments.
The Commission is directed by an Executive Director
with offices in the Department of Human Resources in, Maryland.
Mission
SERVE THE INTERESTS OF COMMUNITIES OF NATIVE AMERICAN GROUPS IN MARYLAND BY:
- Aiding in the process to obtain state and/or Federal
recognition.
PROMOTE AWARENESS AND A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF BOTH HISTORICAL AND CONTEMPORARY NATIVE
AMERICAN CONTRIBUTIONS TO LIFE IN MARYLAND BY:
- Assisting in the protection of Native American burial
and other culturally significant sites
- Organizing and maintaining a data base of resources
specific to Native American history and culture in Maryland.
- Publishing information and giving presentations on the
culture and accomplishments of Native American groups in
Maryland.
- Serving as a statewide clearinghouse for information.
ASSIST STATE, LOCAL AND PRIVATE AGENCIES
RESPONSIBLE FOR ADDRESSING THE EDUCATIONAL, SOCIAL AND
ECONOMIC NEEDS OF NATIVE AMERICAN COMMUNITIES IN MARYLAND WITH
ACTIVITIES SUCH AS:
- Identifying unmet social and economic needs and
recommending specific actions to meet those needs.
- Identifying and supporting physical and mental health
programs for Native Americans.
- Making recommendations to encourage and promote economic
development in Native American communities.
Membership and
Meetings
The Commission consists of nine
members, a majority of whom must be Native American residents
of Maryland. At least three members must be from indigenous
Native American Maryland groups. Commissioners are appointed
by the Governor with the consent of the Senate for three year
terms. Meetings are open to the public and are held the first
Monday of the every month in locations
throughout the state.
Services
The Maryland Commission
on Indian Affairs maintains offices and a growing library of
books, articles, oral history interviews, transcripts and
video tapes at the offices in the MCIA.
The Maryland
Commission on Indian Affairs provides the following programs
and information upon request:
Classroom Materials
Speakers
Bureau
Resource Directory
Traveling Exhibits
Oral
History Collection
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