Obama, who described himself as a "proud adopted member of the Crow Nation," said he will visit Indian land next year. He spoke of the need to be "good stewards of native homelands" that are sacred to tribal members.
"I saw the beauty of Crow Agency, Montana, when I was a candidate for this office," he said. "Next year, I'll make my first trip to Indian Country as president."
Obama spoke of the unique relationship the tribes have with the United States. He also acknowledged they have a more direct relationship with Washington.
"We've got to stop the self-inflicted wounds in Washington, because for many tribal nations, this year's harmful sequester cuts and last month's government shutdown made a tough situation worse," he said. "Your schools, your police departments, child welfare offices are all feeling the squeeze."
The administration has launched the White House Council on Native American Affairs, which is holding meetings to coincide with the conference. The conferences have been held annually since Obama became president.
The conference was held at the Interior Department and attended by 13 members of the Cabinet, including Interior Secretary Sally Jewell and Attorney General Eric Holder.
In his speech, the president listed administration initiatives, including the Affordable Care Act, that he said will benefit American Indians. He said the administration is trying to create alternative energy jobs on tribal lands.
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