The 3rd Annual CILS California Tribal Courts Conference once again brought together a host of California tribal governments and notable speakers.  “Sovereignty in Action: Tribal Justice in California” was this year’s theme which featured discussions about the diversity of tribal justice forums and the cases they hear.  Without a doubt the roles of tribal courts in California are expanding and strengthening.

Panelists (left to right) Hopland Police Chief, Marty McCarthy, Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Police Chief, Bill Denke, BIA Special Agent, Selanhongva McDonald, CILS Directing Attorney, Dorothy Alther, Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Court Judge, Hon. Lester J. Marston

Attendees at this year’s two-day conference, held at Harrah’s Rincon Casino and Resort, were treated to presentations on a number of relevant topics such as: Public Law 280 retrocession, jurisdiction and non- Indians, Indian Child Welfare Act and the Indian Civil Rights Act. 

Panelists: (left to right) Intertribal Court of Southern California Tribal Court Judge, Hon. Anthony Brandenburg, Hoopa Tribal Police Lieutenant, Ed Guyer, CILS Staff Attorney, Angela Medrano

The event brought approximately 175 attendees who also heard about the latest developments on the Indian Law Enforcement Reform Act and it’s affect on California as well as alternative dispute resolution systems in Indian country.

(left to right) CILS Board Vice-Chairman, Tuari Bigknife, Panelists: Nakwatsvewat Institute Director, Pat Sekaquaptewa, and Roberta Reyes Cordero, J.D.

The conference aims to promote dialogue and creative thinking among tribal leaders and communities. “As California tribal governments continue to develop and expand their reservation infrastructures and economies, effective and sustainable tribal justice systems become essential,” states CILS Executive Director Devon Lomayesva.  CILS would like to thank everyone who attended and shared their ideas and experiences.  We look forward to next year’s conference with great anticipation.