Statement by Yakima Tribal Council Secretary on the 'Trail of Broken Treaties' Caravan and the State of Reservation Indian Affairs, 1972-11-06

Mrs. Genevieve Hooper, representing the Yakima Tribal Council, expresses concern at a press conference about the lack of respect and confidence in the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Administration's handling of Indian affairs. She criticizes the BIA for listening to self-styled Indian leaders instead of elected reservation leaders, and expresses fear that the demands of the caravan "Trail of Broken Treaties" will lead to a shift in priorities away from reservations. She questions the actions of Commissioner Bruce and suggests that the BIA is being destroyed by its involvement with non-reservation Indians. Hooper calls for a focus on improving conditions on reservations and involving elected reservation leaders in decision-making.