Institute for Development of Economic Policy for Indigenous People

An Historic Place, with an Historic Purpose

Not so long ago, the region's American Indian tribes met regularly on the north bank of the Spokane River.

Gonzaga University now sits on that spot, which still holds great historical and cultural value for indigenous people. Now, the Gonzaga University School of Law closes the circle, with a pair of interrelated programs directed by Professor Jay Kanassatega:

• Indian Law Program (ILP)
  The ILP exposes students to the unique body of federal, state and tribal law that has evolved around tribal sovereignty.
• Institute for Development of Economic Policy for Indigenous People
  The Institute promotes policy and the rule of law as a foundation for building sustainable economic systems in Indian Country.

Interwoven Parts of a Whole

The Institute will study and analyze vexing economic issues in Indian Country and Alaska in an effort to seek solutions based on public policy and the rule of law. The Institute will work with Indigenous leadership to develop public policies and create the legal structure required to support a sustainable economic system.

Students will be grounded in solid theory through the ILP curriculum. Those enrolled in the Seminar in Public Policy for American Indian Governments will research and study economic and other policy issues targeted toward building sustainable economic systems in Indian Country and Alaska. Those enrolled in the Indian Law Clinic will participate in the design of the statutes meant to implement the economic policies adopted by tribal government representatives in the Institutes' Demonstration Project.