WASHINGTON - Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne today formally swore in Carl Artman as the department's new Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs.
"Carl's extensive work with tribal governments, his work in the private sector, his legal training, his passion for Indian Country, his intensity as well as his experience in the executive and legislative branches of the U.S Government prepare him well for this new responsibility," Kempthorne said at a headquarters' ceremony attended by tribal leaders and Artman's family and friends.
"In his new position, Carl will find ample opportunities to put his legal training, professional experience and considerable abilities to good use as we address such key issues" such as tribal self-government, law-enforcement, education and economic development. "
Artman, 42, who had been the Department Associate Solicitor for Indian Affairs since February 2006, said it was a great honor to be the new Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs. "I share Secretary Kempthorne's view that we must continue moving forward on tribal self-determination," Artman said "All of us working together can accomplish great things, and I will do my best to provide Indian Affairs with the necessary leadership to help tribes achieve their goals."
An enrolled member of the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin, Artman has also served as the Tribe's chief counsel, managing its legal affairs and providing legal guidance for tribal wide reorganization and economic development. Artman's nomination by President Bush was confirmed by the U. S. Senate on March 5, 2007.
Leaders and elders of the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin joined the ceremony and tribal members performed an honoring blessing for the new Assistant Secretary. The Oneida Nation Veterans provided the color guard for the Flag Presentation; and a group of Oneida Tribal School teachers and students also participate.
