Native Case Studies

The 23 Tribes of New Mexico have a long history of intergovernmental relations beginning with inter-tribal relationships among diverse Tribes and extending to the periods of Spanish colonial rule, Mexican rule, and finally establishing the federal relationship with the United States. The 23 recognized Tribes constitute over 100% of the States's population. Tribes are represented in both legislative and executive branches of New Mexico today in a continuously evolving relationship. Although the relationship continues to be strengthened through the self-determination and self-governance initiatives carried out by Tribes, it has also become politicized. This case explores the history of the development of tribal relationships with the State of New Mexico, the resulting impacts, and lessons about intergovernmental relationships.