Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council

The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) established the Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council (OVW TLC or Council) to facilitate the exchange of views, information, and advice concerning the management or implementation of federal programs established pursuant to statute, including the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and its reauthorizations. The OVW TLC will provide a forum for discussion between OVW and federally recognized Tribal Government leaders, acting in their official capacities, further upholding Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship between the United States and Tribal Nations.

OVW TLC meetings will address the implementation of intergovernmental responsibilities related to federal programs under VAWA and related laws that affect Indian country and Alaska Native villages and enhance the safety of American Indian and Alaska Native survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, homicide, stalking, and sex trafficking. The OVW TLC also will provide information and advice that will assist with the OVW Deputy Director for Tribal Affairs’ statutory duty to advise the OVW Director concerning policies, legislation, and implementation of laws relating to federal programs addressing violence against American Indian and Alaska Native Women.

This newly established OVW TLC consists of 12 Tribal government leaders (either elected or appointed), one from each of the Bureau of Indian Affairs' Regional Areas.

Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council Members