Land Back Statement
Presidential Candidate Brittany N. Jones
As a presidential candidate, I stand before you recognizing the importance of understanding the limitations and powers inherent in the office of the President of the United States. While it is true that the President does not have the authority to unilaterally create new legislation or give physical land back, it is also crucial to acknowledge the significant executive powers vested in the office.
As outlined by our Constitution, the legislative branch, composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate, holds the primary responsibility for creating and passing new laws. This system of checks and balances ensures that no single branch of government can wield unchecked authority.
However, within the realm of executive authority, the President possesses considerable power to act decisively on certain issues. Through executive orders, directives, and administrative actions, the President can address pressing matters and implement policy changes within existing legal frameworks.
For example, the President can use executive orders to enact changes in administrative policies, set regulatory standards, establish task forces, and direct federal agencies' actions. These actions can have a profound impact on various issues, ranging from immigration policy to environmental protection, from national security to healthcare access.
The President holds significant influence in shaping the national agenda and rallying public support for specific initiatives. Through the power of the bully pulpit, the President can use their platform to raise awareness, mobilize citizens, and advocate for legislative priorities.
Therefore, while it is essential to recognize the limitations of presidential power in creating new legislation, it is equally crucial to understand the scope of executive authority in addressing pressing issues and advancing policy objectives. As a presidential candidate, I am committed to using the powers of the presidency judiciously and effectively to serve the Indigenous people that are on American soil. I firmly believe in upholding the Treaties made between the United States government and First Nations of Turtle Island. The power vested in the presidency includes the responsibility to enforce these treaties and ensure justice for violations committed against Indigenous peoples.
Upon my election, I will immediately call the Senate into session to address the ongoing violations of Indigenous treaties. I will invite representatives from First Nations to collaborate in forming a task force dedicated to investigating these violations and holding accountable any elected officials found guilty of treaty breaches. Justice must prevail, and those responsible for injustices against Indigenous communities must face appropriate consequences and be removed from their positions of power.
Furthermore, I recognize the detrimental impact of restrictive regulations on infrastructure development within treaty lands. To promote economic prosperity and sovereignty for Indigenous nations, I will utilize executive orders to remove unnecessary barriers to infrastructure development on these lands by First Nations. This action is crucial in advancing the economic self-sufficiency and empowerment of Indigenous communities. Our people should not have to ask the United States government to improve the infrastructure on our own lands.
Moreover, I am committed to engaging in new treaty negotiations with Indigenous nations. These negotiations will focus on permanently removing restrictions on infrastructure development and affirming the sovereignty and freedom of Indigenous nations. It is imperative that we work towards true sovereignty and freedom for Indigenous communities, acknowledging and respecting their inherent rights and autonomy. While doing so, it is essential to recognize that the diverse Indigenous nations across America have unique histories, cultures, and needs. I am committed to engaging directly with representatives from each Indigenous community to understand and address their specific concerns and challenges, no comprehensive policy can be created before that crucial step. Whether it's access to healthcare, education, economic opportunities, or protection of sacred lands, I will work tirelessly to ensure that the needs of every Indigenous nation are heard, respected, and met.
In addition to holding elected officials accountable for treaty violations, I recognize the significant role that corporations play in perpetuating injustices against Indigenous communities. I will ensure that corporations are held accountable for any treaty violations they have and will commit. I will not hesitate to void contracts that violate standing treaties and will no longer approve contracts for corporations to build or develop on native land. It is time for the American government to no longer profit off our people.
It is imperative that we prioritize the well-being and autonomy of Indigenous communities over corporate interests. By holding corporations accountable and voiding contracts that violate treaties, we send a clear message that exploitation and disregard for Indigenous rights will not be tolerated.
Additionally, I am deeply troubled by the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) in our nation, and by the lack of support from the people who claim to be our allies. We are the only ones to stand with each other at our rallies, protests, and marches with our allies taking our symbols and culture for their own use while turning a blind eye to the fact that one of our relatives goes missing or gets murdered every 30 seconds. Indigenous communities have suffered disproportionate rates of disappearances and violence for far too long, and it is beyond time for decisive action.
Upon taking office, I will prioritize the safety and well-being of Indigenous communities by ensuring that MMIW is taken seriously at every level of government. I am currently and will continue to work tirelessly to implement the Indigenous Persons Alert, Reporting, and Accountability Act, which establishes a comprehensive alert system, mandates thorough investigations, and holds authorities accountable for neglect or mishandling of MMIW cases.
Under this Act, law enforcement agencies will be required to establish and maintain the "Feather Alert System," (already implemented in California) ensuring immediate alerts to the public about missing Indigenous persons. Additionally, reporting requirements will be strengthened to ensure accurate representation of missing indigenous persons in statewide statistics, with data disaggregated to provide a clear understanding of the scope of the issue.
Collaboration with Tribal Governments and organizations will be prioritized to establish guidelines for the implementation of the Feather Alert System and provide cultural sensitivity training to law enforcement agencies. Public awareness campaigns will be launched to educate the public about MMIW and the importance of prompt reporting.
Crucially, this Act will establish an independent oversight body consisting of First Nations people to monitor and evaluate state authorities' handling of MMIW cases, ensuring accountability and transparency in our efforts to address this crisis. Funding will be allocated equitably to support prevention and response efforts, with disciplinary actions for individuals within state authorities who fail to uphold their duties in addressing MMIW cases.
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Not only I am deeply committed to advancing Indigenous freedom and sovereignty domestically but globally as well. It is imperative that the United States not only addresses injustices within its borders but also confronts the harsh realities of genocide faced by indigenous peoples worldwide.
I firmly believe that the United States must no longer be complicit in acts of genocide perpetrated by colonizer governments. We have a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities everywhere, to amplify our voices, and to advocate for our rights and dignity.
To this end, I pledge to foster connections between Indigenous communities in America to those in other countries, promoting dialogue, collaboration, and mutual support on an international scale. This includes exploring opportunities for trade agreements, cultural exchanges, and alliances that empower Indigenous peoples to assert their rights and reclaim their autonomy.
As President, I will take decisive action to ensure that the United States removes any support—military, economic, or financial—from colonizer governments complicit in genocide. We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering and oppression inflicted upon Indigenous peoples by these regimes.
True Indigenous freedom and sovereignty require concrete actions and systemic change. I am committed to dismantling the structures of oppression that perpetuate violence, exploitation, and marginalization against Indigenous peoples, both at home and abroad.
Together, let us build a world where Indigenous communities are respected, empowered, and able to thrive on our own terms. Let us stand united in our commitment to justice, equality, and dignity for all Indigenous peoples, wherever they may be.
In conclusion, I pledge that upon assuming office, I will take immediate and decisive action to secure the safety and freedom of Indigenous nations in America. I will uphold the integrity of treaties, hold violators accountable, remove barriers to development, and engage in meaningful negotiations to ensure the well-being and prosperity of Indigenous peoples. Together, we will strive towards a future where justice, equality, and respect define the United States governments relationship with Indigenous communities, rectifying the injustices of the past and forging a path towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Additionally, in the event of the collapse of the American government, I am committed to fostering a peaceful transition of power, ensuring that all land is returned to the Indigenous communities in America as a crucial step towards rectifying historical injustices and honoring Indigenous sovereignty.
Brittany N. Jones
Unaffiliated Presidential Candidate
2024