We Want Your Feedback on UND’s New Tribal Consultation Policy

UND sits in the heart of the Northern Plains, a region with deep and living connections to multiple Tribal Nations. Those relationships play an important role in our research, our classrooms, and our community partnerships. A new draft policy on Tribal Consultation aims to ensure we handle those relationships with the care and structure they deserve.

We’re asking the UND community to review the draft and share feedback before it is finalized.

Why this policy, and why now?

UND has long valued its partnerships with Tribal Nations across the region. This policy puts that commitment in writing. It establishes a consistent, respectful process for how UND engages with Tribal partners when University activities may affect them. Right now, that expectation exists in spirit. This policy puts it in practice.

Key elements include:

• Respect for Tribal sovereignty. UND acknowledges Tribal Nations as sovereign governments and commits to honoring their laws, governance processes, cultures, and traditions.
• Early and ongoing communication. UND will engage Tribal partners early and regularly, not as an afterthought.
• Collaborative research. Researchers must co-design projects involving Tribal Nations with Tribal partners from the earliest stages.
• Formal agreements. When appropriate, UND and Tribal partners will establish memoranda of agreement covering data ownership, intellectual property, confidentiality, and publication of results.
• Clear consultation procedures. The policy outlines when Consultation is required, how to initiate it, what notice UND must provide, and how to document and report Consultation outcomes.

Who does this apply to?

This policy applies to all UND employees who engage in activities, partnerships, research, or collaborations with Tribal Nations, Tribal members, Native communities, or Tribal Colleges and Universities. It also supports existing, longstanding Tribal partnerships that have already developed strong working frameworks.

Why does it matter?

Good intentions aren’t enough on their own. Without a shared process, communication can happen too late, or not at all. This policy sets a clear standard; one that reflects UND’s commitment to Tribal sovereignty, meaningful partnership, and good-faith engagement.

What are we asking of you?

Read the draft and tell us what you think. Your perspective – whether you work in research, teaching, administration, or student services – helps us get this right.

The formal comment period is April 8–21. Submit your comments and suggestions online. All feedback will be reviewed and considered before the policy is finalized.

Thank you for helping UND build and strengthen relationships grounded in respect, trust, and collaboration.