Through the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the federal government influences the lives of American Indians in a way that is unlike its involvement with any other group in the U.S.

With dozens of departments, which vary from law enforcement to real estate, the BIA’s wide-ranging role in Indian Country has played a part in the lives of many Montana Indians.

Who inherits, purchases or leases much of the land on reservations requires approval from the BIA. What level of law enforcement will be provided to establish justice and help resist the further spread of drug use in Indian communities hinges heavily on decisions regarding the BIA. And when economic gain is sought from developing natural resources or tribes decide how to use federal funding, a lasting presence is once again sustained by the BIA.

This in-depth report by journalism students at the University of Montana looks at these topics and others, while illustrating how the BIA affects people who live on six of the state’s Indian reservations. Continue reading...