DCA tribal liaison sets to build relationships within NM
It’s been a few months since Gregorio Gonzales became the tribal liaison for the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.
The position was created to build and strengthen vital relationships with the state’s 23 tribal nations.
“Native nations remain vital to New Mexico’s story,” Gonzales said. “As the Tribal Liaison with the state’s Department of Cultural Affairs, I am fortunate to work with federally recognized tribal governments, NMDCA agency divisions, and urban Indigenous community organizations in the service of tribal cultural empowerment initiatives now taking shape across the New Mexico homelands. It is an exciting time to amplify tribal voices and creativity in New Mexico.”
In his first few months on the job, Gonzales traveled across the state, attending feast days and other events from Taos Pueblo to Zuni Pueblo.
He has also worked with DCA divisions on developing culturally-responsive programming and establishing their own relationships with tribes.
Gonzales, who is Comanche and Genízaro and hails from the Southwest borderlands, offers a unique perspective on the tribal liaison role.
Prior to his new role, he completed postdoctoral work at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Colorado College, and The Ohio State University.
Earlier this year, he concluded his time teaching as a visiting assistant professor in Native American and Indigenous Studies with the Department of Anthropology at New Mexico State University.
He says his goal is to provide tangible contributions to the quality of life and economic well-being of tribal communities under the landmark State Tribal Collaboration Act.
The State Tribal Collaboration Act, signed into law in 2009 by Gov. Bill Richardson, provides a framework for state and tribes to work together to develop successful programs and services to benefit New Mexico’s Indigenous citizens. Among other requirements, the STCA requires cabinet-level agencies to designate agency tribal liaisons to promote positive relations between the state and tribal governments.
“From our work with tribal libraries to our support for Acoma Pueblo’s learning center, working collaboratively with Tribal governments and organizations across New Mexico is a key part of NMDCA’s mission and vision,” said Debra Garcia y Griego, Department of Cultural Affairs Secretary. “Having Dr. Gonzales onboard not only affirms our commitment to this work at a statewide level, but it also gives us more resources to foster future partnerships.”