The former Secretary of Interior, Rogers C. B. Morton, has commended Commissioner of Indian Affairs Morris Thompson for recent accomplishments in Indian Affairs.
In an April 30 letter to the Commissioner, Morton noted major legislative achievements, the increased involvement of Indian people in BIA programs and the predominantly Indian leadership established within the Bureau.
Morton, now Secretary of Commerce, described the Indian Self Determination Act, the Indian Financing Act and the Menominee Restoration Act as "milestones in Indian efforts to achieve social and economic equality.
On Indian participation in the direction of programs, he said: "This is especially important to you and me because we share the belief that active involvement by Indian people in Indian programs is most essential to development of successful programs." He noted also that the predominance of Indians, appointed by Thompson to leadership roles in the Bureau, should further his participation.
Morton expressed appreciation to Bureau employees for "outstanding work" and to Thompson for this "dedication to successfully administering a challenging position."
