These protocols were disseminated by the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission and were passed along to us by Joe Quetone, Executive Director of the Governor’s Council on Indian Affairs, Inc.

Understand the unique relationship between American Indians and the United States government. It is a political relationship—not race based. The history of this unique relationship is relevant and important to working with a Tribe. There are more than 500 federally recognized Tribes—each with its own history, culture, and language. Being Indian and accessing services is complicated and complex.

Do not assume one Tribe or one leader speaks for all. Take the time to find the key players. Remember that American Indians may be suspicious of outsiders and outside ideas. American Indians object to being "consulted" or "studied" by people who have little intention of doing anything in response to their concerns. Be prepared to negotiate--to find ways to accommodate the Tribe’s concerns. Be prepared to respond with reasons why the advice may or may not be followed.
Meetings with Tribal Council officials and Tribal program staff should, if possible, be conducted between the same levels of officials. There may be fewer or a greater number of people at a meeting than you expected. Take the initiative in introducing yourself, especially with older people. It is a sign of respect to take the initiative. You may not get what you consider an enthusiastic response but you will probably get a slight nod.

Do not speak loudly. It is not necessary and it can be offensive. Although you may expect others to look you in the eye when they speak to you, the American Indian culture does not hold this to be important. In fact, when you think about the meaning of an oral culture the American Indian person may simply be listening very carefully to what you say. Remember that the lack of eye contact is not a sign the person is not being honest or truthful.

Most Tribal governments are not wealthy and it may be difficult for Tribal officials to attend meetings or to exchange correspondence. Also, tribal governments in general do not have large support staff to assign to meetings, follow-up, etc. Formal notices or invitations should be addressed to the Tribal Chairperson and/or the appropriate Council Representative or Committee, with the respective Tribal program Director copied on the letter.

Do not rely solely on written communication. Follow-up written correspondence with telephone calls, faxes, or in-person contacts. Traditional authorities may prefer face-to-face consultation to written communication. Remember the American Indian tradition is primarily an oral tradition so the preference for face-to-face communication is deeply imbedded in history and culture.

Understand that there are different ways of communication. Seemingly extraneous data may be reviewed and re-reviewed. During negotiations, prepare to discuss all aspects of an issue at hand simultaneously rather than sequentially. Respect tribal Council representatives as elected officials of a government. Tribal Councils expect to be treated in the highest professional manner when conducting business.

Like all business relationships, honesty and integrity are highly valued. A sense of humor is appreciated but generally, serious, businesslike behavior is appropriate. Dress in a businesslike way for meetings. Always shake hands when introduced to someone or when departing. It is customary to shake hands with everyone in the room. Normally, light shaking of hands is the preferred way. Some American Indians may follow your custom and shake with a strong grip—they are accommodating your culture when they do this.

If possible, arrange meetings with refreshments and/or a meal. This is a cultural characteristic that is still strong. Those you consult with might not be able to answer questions immediately. They may need to think about it and consult with others.

Understand that ‘Indian time’ does not mean being late. It means that things get done when they are meant to get done, and those who should be there are present. Often, the person to whom you send written communication or of whom you have a question will want to consult with others and this takes time. Even more important, the American Indian concept of time is based in a fundamental world view that considers the "long term" instead of the short term.

Do not promise what you can’t deliver. This is a key to building trust.