National and local organizations which represent Blacks, Hispanics, Asians, women, and others employed by the federal government have existed for several years. Until the development of SAIGE in 2001, there was is no national organization for American Indians and Alaska Natives and only a few scattered local groups in federal agencies and in one state government (California).

Although the need for a national organization with chapters across the federal government was identified as early as 1991, work to plan and develop the organization didn’t actually begin until early 2000. A closed discussion list (SAIGE-L) was established to provide a national forum for discussion of the issues.

SAIGE-L members first began working to establish the purposes of the organization so that all further work would have some focus. During the discussion it was quickly realized that members’ interests went well beyond employment issues. They wanted to be able to help all American Indian people, as well as help ensure that federal agencies understood their roles and responsibilities in regard to Trust issues and that they worked to meet those responsibilities. After the Purposes were defined, a simple but relatively comprehensive set of Bylaws to govern the operation of the organization was developed over a period of several months.

Contacts continue to be made as American Indian and Alaska Native organizations and individuals within the various departments and independent agencies of the federal government are identified. We invite you to become a part of this organization.

The Origins of SAIGE