Josett Monette has been confirmed as the Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department by the New Mexico Senate. Governor Lujan Grisham thanked the Senate for their support, noting Monette’s experience with indigenous communities. Senator Benny Shendo Jr., who sponsored Monette, stressed the need for a Secretary who understands tribal nations and communities.
Monette thanked the governor and the legislature for their trust. She promised to support the administration’s priorities for the 23 Nations, Tribes, and Pueblos, and all native people of New Mexico. She also committed to promoting respectful dialogue between the state and sovereign nations.
Monette, a Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians member, has a history of serving indigenous communities. She was the New Mexico Legal Aid Native American Program Director and an Adjunct Professor for the University of New Mexico School of Law National Native American Law Student Association Moot Court Team. She also worked as a Commissioner for the Pueblo of Tesuque Gaming Commission and a Staff Attorney at NMLA Native American Program.