Hung_Low, there are plenty of other examples where Obama has started initiatives (with help from *gasp* other Republicans; you know its not as crazy as it sounds). The healing process has taken? How many years? You can't tell me in this nation's history that with all the legislation, presidents, etc that the Americans have had the best interests for the Native Americans? Or for Americans?
Like I said,the pipeline had bad timing choosing an election year AND the last remaining months of the POTUS.
Also, The Tribal Law and Order Act gave them more accessories in the areas where tribal communities needed federal help for their communities. Come on man, all you're seeing is the handing down of increased jail sentences and what not. You're neglecting that a large majority of Native communities are in poverty or near poverty like state. These areas have little funding, little access or little help in the training, servicing of victims, alcohol and drug prevention, etc. Don't just gloss over the first thing you Googled.
In terms of power struggle? Let's be real and honest. A group of people came into your world, started living on it, changing the entire outline of it. You've made treaties that were lop sided. Those treatise were then broken. Then they systematically drove, killed, pillage you out. Would you not be a bit hesitant to come to the table to discuss more things? This happened how long ago and the effects are still being felt, seen, experienced today. There is a reason why they have their own law enforcement just like Hmong communities in MN have their 18 Clan Council.
It's not like the Native Americans are going to over throw their government. They just understand that there is mistrust and misunderstandi ngs from new Americans. Something that should have been healed a long time ago.