Mission and Vision

The mission of the Commission on American Indian & Alaska Native Affairs (CAIANA) is to support, strengthen, and promote understanding, recognition and respect of Native American culture and contributions through the work of the City of Albuquerque Office of Native American Affairs. The CAIANA and its members are committed to a shared vision where Native people, community, and culture are nurtured, respected, safe and celebrated in the City of Albuquerque.

About

The CAIANA was established by City Council Resolution in 1994 as the forum for the government-to-government relations and as an advocate for Native American resident affairs within the City of Albuquerque. The purpose of the Commission serves as an advising body to the Mayor and City Council by developing and providing recommendations, consultation and supporting activities. Efforts of the Committee are to be coordinated with the work of the Albuquerque Office of Native American Affairs and Office of Equity and Inclusion

Guiding Values

The CAIANA’s Guiding Values Are:

Advocacy

We are amplifiers of the issues and challenges of the Native community who reside in Albuquerque and work together to strengthen the government-to-government relationship between the City of Albuquerque and Native tribes whose tribal citizens reside in the City and surrounding communities.

Community

We honor all Relatives, relationships, togetherness, healing, and our connections to each other and the environment, past, present and the future.

Respect

We have respect for each other, our diverse beliefs, practices, heritages, and perspectives.

Service

We are committed to community service, accountability, integrity for the benefit of the community as a whole.

Stewardship

We believe in respect and care for our natural landscape and its resources which include the land, water, air, climate, natural resources, economic resources, and people.

Wellness

We support Native community and individual physical, mental, social-emotional, and spiritual lifestyle choices which fosters empathy, compassion, humility, and diversity.