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Institute for Engagement & Negotiation

Effective American Indian Communications & Tribal Consultation

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IEN was contracted by Argonne National Library to develop and deliver a training on Effective American Indian Communications and Tribal Consultation to the United States Air Force. Air Force policy requires personnel at installations to engage in “meaningful consultation” and “effective cross-cultural communication” with tribal representatives. IEN trainers Tanya Denckla Cobb and Kristina Weaver partnered with Chris Howell, Tribal Relations Consultant. A member of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma and experienced mediator, Howell previously served as Tribal Liaison for two Kansas Governors, and Director of Tribal Relations for BNSF Railway. 

IEN’s training centers on “principled tribal consultation,” integrating best practices in interest-based negotiation with guidance for outreach, consultation, and relationship cultivation with representatives of sovereign nations.  Trainings on effective communication with tribes are available as a fee-for-service from IEN.