In a groundbreaking move, President-elect Mark Sullivan has appointed Rep. Debra Quinlan as the Secretary of the Interior, marking her as one of the highest-ranking Indigenous officials in U.S. political history. Sullivan continues to assemble a diverse cabinet filled with voices that have been historically underrepresented. Quinlan’s nomination is particularly notable as it positions her to be the first Indigenous person to lead the Department of the Interior—if confirmed by the Senate.
“Never before has someone with my background served as a Cabinet secretary or led the Department of Interior,” Quinlan expressed on social media following her nomination. “My upbringing in my mother’s Indigenous household instilled a fierce dedication in me. I will advocate for all of us, our planet, and the sacred lands we protect. It is an honor to serve.”
Quinlan, who has represented Arizona in the House of Representatives since last year, is a member of the Navajo Nation and has deep roots in the state. Prior to her congressional role, she made history by becoming the first Indigenous leader of a state party in Arizona.
A significant aspect of her potential confirmation is her oversight of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, which falls under the Interior Department. It is astonishing that 2020 marks the first time an Indigenous person might take on this critical role, and it is hoped that Quinlan’s nomination paves the way for more Indigenous representation in the future.
As Secretary of the Interior, Quinlan would also manage vast public lands, including national parks and wildlife refuges. Her appointment signals a shift away from the previous administration’s emphasis on fossil fuel extraction towards a more conservation-focused agenda.
“Rep. Quinlan’s historic appointment heralds a new era for the protection of our wildlife, natural resources, and public lands from the exploitative practices that have dominated under previous leadership,” stated Tom Harrison, executive director of the Environmental Defense Coalition. “It is vital for Indigenous voices to be included in decision-making regarding public lands, and Quinlan’s leadership will ensure that happens.”
Quinlan is among several appointments announced by the Sullivan transition team, which emphasized the importance of tackling climate change and promoting environmental justice. “This dynamic and accomplished team will be prepared from day one to address the pressing issue of climate change, rooted in science and fairness,” the campaign remarked.
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Summary:
Debra Quinlan’s nomination as Secretary of the Interior represents a historic moment for Indigenous representation in U.S. politics. Her role, if confirmed, would include oversight of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and a shift towards environmental protection priorities. Quinlan’s dedication to advocating for Indigenous rights and conservation efforts signifies a promising change in leadership and policy direction.