The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) was represented at a series of high-profile events tied to the visit of King Charles III this week in the United States, underscoring the growing visibility of Tribal Nations in international and diplomatic spaces.
NCAI President Mark Macarro. tribal chairman of the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, and Executive Director Larry Wright Jr. (Ponco) attended multiple engagements in Washington, D.C., including a Garden Party hosted at the British Ambassador’s residence. The gathering brought together prominent figures such as Yvette Cooper, Mike Johnson, and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her husband, Paul Pelosi. Also in attendance was Holly Cook Macarro (Red Lake Ojibwe), wife of President Macarro.
In addition to the Garden Party, Macarro was invited as a special guest of King Charles III to attend the monarch’s address at a joint meeting of Congress, alongside other dignitaries and leaders connected to causes important to His Majesty.
Their participation reflects the importance of ensuring Tribal Nations and Indigenous Peoples are visible in diplomatic and governmental arenas where relationships are strengthened, histories—including difficult ones—are acknowledged, and shared futures are shaped. NCAI’s inclusion in these events signals a broader recognition of the sovereign status of Tribal Nations and the need for Indigenous representation in global discussions.
NCAI emphasized that its presence reinforces a fundamental truth: Tribal Nations are sovereign governments with longstanding political, cultural, and diplomatic relationships that predate the United States and continue to influence global affairs today. As sovereign leaders, Tribal officials must be included in discussions with other heads of state and government to safeguard and advance their nations’ rights and interests.
“It was an honor to meet His Majesty King Charles III during his visit to Washington, D.C., and to attend the Garden Party at the British Ambassador’s residence alongside NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr.,” said Macarro. “We were also deeply honored to be among those invited to attend the King’s historic address before Congress. Tribal Nations and Indigenous Peoples must be seen and included in spaces where diplomacy, history, and future partnerships are being shaped, and NCAI is proud to represent Indian Country.”
Since ascending the throne, King Charles III has engaged in dialogue with Indigenous leaders in countries including Canada and Brazil. He is expected to conclude his U.S. visit with a meeting with Tribal representatives at Shenandoah National Park.
NCAI said it will continue working with Tribal Nations, partners, and allies to advance sovereignty, uphold trust and treaty obligations, and strengthen Indigenous leadership at every level of governance.
