When I think of Jimmy Carter’s time as president, my mind is drawn to memories from childhood: a sense of failure and a race against Reagan that seemed destined for defeat.
Around ten years old, I didn’t grasp the nuances of politics, but the buzz in the air and the chatter on the news painted Carter as a president who couldn’t rescue the hostages or prevent the sense of decline that many Americans felt. I remember accompanying my mom to the voting booth in 1980 and proudly helping her punch the ticket for Reagan, a moment that felt monumental to my younger self.
After Carter left office, the headlines shifted. What I knew of him was his quiet work on human rights and his hands-on dedication to grassroots efforts like Habitat for Humanity. It seemed like his real impact had begun only after the cameras had turned away, a second act that reshaped his legacy in the eyes of many.
But headlines often obscure the full story. In researching Carter’s legacy, I’ve come to understand that his presidency had a far greater impact on Indian Country than I ever realized. While his administration may be remembered by many for its struggles, his policies and initiatives in support of Native communities have had a lasting ripple effect that is still felt today. It’s a testament to how history often judges in broad strokes, overlooking the meaningful ways a leader can shape lives and communities for generations.
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, recently passed away at 100. He will be remembered as a man of principle, faith, and humility. He’ll also be remembered for his significant contributions to Native American community rights during his presidency from 1977 to 1981. His administration is known for its commitment to self-determination and the protection of Indigenous cultures, the Carter administration was responsible for the enactment of several pivotal pieces of legislation.
American Indian Religious Freedom Act
One of the most notable laws signed by President Carter was the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) in August 1978. This act aimed to protect and preserve the inherent rights of American Indians, Eskimos, Aleuts, and Native Hawaiians to practice their traditional religions freely. Before AIRFA, federal policies had restricted Indigenous religious practices, including access to sacred sites and the use of holy objects. Carter emphasized that religious freedom is a fundamental right for every American and directed federal agencies to evaluate their policies to be sure they didn’t interfere with Native reverent practices.
Indian Child Welfare Act
In November 1978, Carter signed the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) into law. This legislation addressed the alarming rate at which Native American children were being separated from their families and placed into non-Native homes. ICWA established standards for the placement of Native children in foster or adoptive homes, prioritizing their placement within their own families or tribes to preserve their cultural heritage. This act had a lasting impact on protecting the rights of Native families and is still felt today.
Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act
In 1980, the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), was signed into law protecting over 100 million acres of land in Alaska, creating numerous national parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness areas. ANILCA had a significant impact on Alaska Natives while safeguarding lands that were culturally and spiritually significant. Carter’s dedication to preserving these lands earned him recognition from Indigenous groups; notably, the Tlingit tribe honored him as an honorary member of the Raven Beaver Clan, bestowing upon him the title “Haa Hoo Woo,” a chief who protects the natural world.
Tribally Controlled Community College Assistance Act
The Carter administration also supported the Tribally Controlled Community College Assistance Act, signed in October 1978. This act provided stable funding for postsecondary education on Indian reservations and enabled American Indians to access education. By empowering tribes to establish and control their community colleges, self-determination and the preservation of Indigenous cultures through education were given positive recognition.
Throughout his presidency, Jimmy Carter’s policies reflected a level of respect for Native American rights and a commitment to rectifying historical injustices. The efforts of his administration to protect religious freedoms, preserve cultural heritage, and support self-determination truly left an enduring legacy in Indian Country.
The Carter administration was responsible for landmark legislation advancing the rights and well-being of Native Americans. Carter’s commitment to cultural preservation has had a lasting impact on Indigenous communities across the United States.
In response to President Carter’s passing, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said on a social media post, “President Jimmy Carter, Rest in Peace,”
