New Mexico Indian Affairs Department

**Since 2003 the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department (IAD) has implemented groundbreaking state-tribal policies intended to improve the quality of life for the state’s Indian citizens.** IAD’s policy initiatives are designed to strengthen tribal and state relations and address the challenges we face in our communities; challenges such as economic development, infrastructure improvement, the protection of our cultures and languages, health care accessibility, and educational opportunities for our most precious resource, our children. On our website, you will learn more about the wonderful work IAD is doing for New Mexico and for the Indian citizens of our great state. As the first cabinet level state Indian affairs department in the nation, we continue to set the standard for what is possible when state and tribal governments work together to address mutual concerns in respectful and positive dialogue between sovereign governments. **Vision** Our vision is that tribal nations, tribal communities and Indigenous people are happy, healthy and prosperous and that traditional ways of life are honored, valued and respected. **Mission** The NM Indian Affairs Department is committed to be a resource by: - Advocating for tribal interests at state and federal levels through policy and legislative work; - Supporting tribes with access to resources, technical assistance and funding opportunities; and Connecting tribes with the executive branch, other tribes and with the tools and resources they need to be self-governing and self-sufficient.