Theme studies provide national historic context for specific topics in American history or pre-history, as well as evaluation guidance and a list of properties for study as possible future National Historic Landmarks. The Indian Reorganization Period theme study will build on the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative and other U.S. Department of the Interior efforts to ensure that Native American history is recognized as American history.

“Native American history is American history, and it should be told by Indigenous peoples. The stories we share inform not just our present but the future world we will pass on to the next generation of leaders. They help define us,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, a Pueblo of Laguna tribal member, in remarks at the 2023 White House Tribal Nations Summit. “I am grateful that the National Park Service will work closely on this study with Native communities to ensure that their stories, perspectives and Indigenous Knowledge are a key part of this work.” 

While injustices and the continued implementation of assimilation policies persisted in many Indigenous communities, during the Indian Reorganization Period (1934 -1950) the country saw a greater appreciation for American Indian culture, more concern given to American Indian self-determination and self-government, and movement beginning to develop more economic opportunity on Tribal lands. 

“We will work together with tribes through rigorous study and collaborative work in interpreting and preserving important chapters in American history, uplifting valuable perspective and strengthening the National Park Service’s role as America’s storyteller,” NPS Director Chuck Sams said.  

The National Park Foundation is contributing to the launch of the study, which will be prepared with the guidance and expertise of external partners, including tribal leaders, academics and other experts in the field. Early work for the study will kick off in the new year and NPS will begin outreach to tribes in the coming months.