Inter-Tribal Disability Advocacy Council Announces Call for New Members

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 4, 2026
Contact: Hoskie Benally505-809-0668
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nter-Tribal Disability Advocacy Council Announces Call for New Members

FARMINGTON, NM – The Inter-Tribal Disability Advocacy Council (IDAC) is announcing an open call for new members who are committed to disability advocacy, community leadership, and advancing the rights of Indigenous Americans with disabilities. Founded in 2023 under the sponsorship of the Native American Disability Law Center and funded by the Borealis Philanthropy, the IDAC was established to amplify the voices, lived experiences, and leadership of Indigenous Americans with disabilities across tribal communities. The IDAC serves as a collaborative advisory body that identifies systemic barriers, elevates community concerns, and provides guidance on policies, programs, and advocacy efforts impacting Indigenous Americans —including American Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Native Hawaiians—with disabilities and their families. Council members play a vital role in shaping advocacy priorities and strengthening disability rights efforts at the tribal, regional, and national levels. 

The IDAC is seeking Indigenous Americans with disabilities, family members of individuals with disabilities, and Indigenous professionals who work with Indigenous people with disabilities. Ideal candidates have experience in disability advocacy at the personal, community, tribal, state, and/or federal levels, and demonstrate the ability to integrate Indigenous cultural practices with Western approaches. Applicants should also show a strong commitment to promoting disability rights, addressing service gaps unique to Indigenous communities, and walking in “One Spirit” at spiritual, personal, and professional levels. Membership Expectations: Individuals selected to serve on the Council are expected to commit to active participation, including attending monthly meetings held once per month on Fridays beginning at 1:00 PM Mountain Standard Time (MST).

Meeting times across U.S. time zones are as follows:
• 3:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST)
• 2:00 PM Central Standard Time (CST)
• 1:00 PM Mountain Standard Time (MST)
• 12:00 PM Pacific Standard Time (PST)
• 11:00 AM Alaska Standard Time (AKST)
• 10:00 AM Hawaiʻi Standard Time (HST)

Members are also expected to serve as advocates within their regions across the nation and to elevate the mission, priorities, and work of IDAC on behalf of Indigenous Americans with disabilities. Membership on the Council is voluntary and provides a meaningful opportunity to influence positive change, collaborate with advocates from diverse tribal nations, and contribute to improving access, equity, and justice for Indigenous Americans with disabilities.

IDAC operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the Native American Disability Law Center’s Board of Directors and follows a consensus-based decision-making model rooted in respect, integrity, compassion, and teamwork. Council membership reflects representation from tribal communities across Indian Country, including geographic diversity and youth representation. Members participate in leadership selection, project development, and long-term advocacy initiatives aligned with the Council’s mission and vision. Individuals interested in joining IDAC are invited to submit a letter of interest outlining their eligibility and commitment to disability advocacy. Applicants will be interviewed by Council members, and final membership decisions will be made by consensus.

For additional information or to submit a letter of interest, please contact Hoskie Benally at 505-809-0668 or .