Tribal representatives urge clearer, more inclusive outreach as GSA moves to formalize tribal seat

Multiple tribal representatives used the public-comment period to press the GSA for clearer, more inclusive tribal engagement as the agency moves to establish nomination procedures for tribal representation.

Julina, who identified herself as from the Okeo tribe, said she had expressed interest in serving but described the tribal seat as having been vacant for many years. "It really should show the willingness of tribal people that want to take part in these things and participate," she said, urging transparent notification and broader outreach. Staff responded that a follow-up meeting with tribes is being scheduled for early October and that the GSA website contains a contact form tribal representatives can use to ensure they are included in outreach.

Javier Silva, a Sherwood Valley tribal member and long-time TAC participant, said tribes prefer a public, transparent conversation and objected to a single seat representing seven tribes. "This is 1 seat amongst 7 tribes, which is what they don't want," he said, urging a more collective process and additional time for tribes to understand options and representation. Both commenters called for outreach that invites tribes to participate together rather than piecemeal.