Specifically, what major contribution(s) has the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) made?
http://www.jiskha.com/search/search.cgi?query=Bureau+of+Indian+Affairs
Here are many posts and responses about the BIA. You should find interesting information in here.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bureau_of_Indian_Affairs
This may help, too.
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The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has made several major contributions throughout its history. Some of the key contributions of the BIA include:
1. Tribal Governance and Self-Determination: The BIA has played a crucial role in establishing and supporting tribal governance and self-determination among Native American tribes. It has provided resources, technical assistance, and guidance to tribes in order to promote self-governance and tribal sovereignty.
To find specific information about the BIA's contributions to tribal governance and self-determination, you can visit the official website of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The website provides various sections and resources related to tribal governance, self-determination, and Indian policy.
2. Stewardship of Tribal Land and Natural Resources: The BIA is responsible for managing and administering millions of acres of land held in trust for tribes. This includes overseeing leases for mineral extraction, grazing rights, and timber harvesting, among other activities. The BIA works closely with tribes to ensure sustainable and responsible use of tribal land and natural resources.
To learn more about the BIA's role in stewardship of tribal land and natural resources, you can explore the "Land & Natural Resources" section on the BIA website. This section provides information on topics such as land leasing, realty services, and environmental protection.
3. Social and Economic Development: The BIA has been involved in supporting social and economic development initiatives for Native American communities. It provides funding and assistance for education, healthcare, housing, economic development, and other social programs to improve the quality of life on reservations and in Indian Country.
To find detailed information about the BIA's contributions to social and economic development, you can navigate through the "Programs & Services" section on the BIA website. This section covers a wide range of programs and services aimed at promoting Native American well-being and economic prosperity.
It's important to note that the BIA's contributions are ongoing and diverse, and these examples highlight just a few of their major areas of impact. For a comprehensive understanding of the BIA's work and contributions, I recommend researching official government sources, reports, and articles focusing on the Bureau of Indian Affairs.