The National Congress of American Indians has elected Pechanga Tribal Chairman Mark Macarro to serve as its President, according to a Native News Online local report.
The congress recently met for its 80th Annual Convention and Marketplace in New Orleans, Louisiana, where it held the election.
According to the local report, voter turnout was high. Voters waited in long lines to cast their ballots prior to the general session, which started at 8:30 yesterday morning.
Macarro has been active in his community for several decades. He has served as the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians Chairman since 1992. The Tribe resides in Temecula, California.
Macarro ran against Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head Aquinnah Chairwoman Cheryl Andrews-Maltais and Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana Chairman Marshall Pierite. He won more than 50% of the vote.
In addition to his role with Pechanga, Macarro sits on the Indian Gaming Association’s Board of Directors as a Pacific delegate. During his tenure, he has been a member of several committees, including the California Workforce Investment Act Board, Riverside County Sheriff Native American Affairs Commission, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, County Historical Commission and the Advocates for Indigenous California Language Survival (AICLS).
As Chairman of the Pechanga Tribe, Macarro has focused on strengthening Tribal sovereignty and preserving cultural heritage, while encouraging economic self-sufficiency and self-determination.
Macarro holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and has received several awards for supporting Native American communities.
The NCAI is known as the largest Native American national organization in the US. The group now celebrates its 80th year.
