Founded in 1970, the Native
American Rights Fund (NARF) uses the current laws and treaties related to
the Native American community for the benefit of Native Americans. Its
voluntary board of directors, attorneys, and staff work toward ensuring that
the U.S. federal government and the U.S. state governments perform their legal
obligations based on these agreements – truly, a noble endeavour considering
the injustices committed against the Native American community.
The non-profit organization also provides Indian
individuals, tribes and organizations with technical assistance and legal
representation in matter affecting their welfare, equal rights, and tribal
rights. But it must be emphasized that the organization picks its battles, so
to speak, because legal cases are accepted by the team of attorneys based on
their potential impact on establishing important principles and practices in
Native American laws.
The NARF is considered as the oldest and largest non-profit
legal firm committed toward asserting, defending and promoting the rights of
Native Americans nationwide. Its legal resources are concentrated on the
preservation of tribal existence, protection of tribal resources, and promotion
of Native American rights, among others.