RIGOR is the setting of high standards, and then assisting people in achieving them. It is understanding that the study of American Indian issues is an academic undertaking and is worthy of scholarly methods and critiques. Studying American Indian histories and cultures is not simplistic, nor is it childish; such approaches are demeaning and denigrating. Rigor is the opposite of anti-intellectualism.

RELIABILITY means that something can be trusted, that it is based on evidence and research, and is consistently of high quality. Reliable work is based on strategies that can be replicated, strategies that draw on the best of educational and scholarly practices. Reliable work welcomes and encourages critical discussion regarding its policies and procedures. Reliability is the opposite of personal opinion.

RESPECT is the approach that all initiatives dealing with American Indians and Indian communities must not be antagonistic toward traditional tribal perspectives and beliefs. These traditions are based on thousands of years of experience here in what is now North America. Respectful work should do no harm to these traditions, nor should it treat them as quaint and simplistic vestiges of the past. Respect is reverential.

RELEVANCE means that work and resources are useful to American Indians and Indian communities today and into the future. Relevance means that the work and resources recognize, support and promote tribal sovereignty. It means that studying  American Indian histories and cultures resonates with students and helps them develop skills that will assist them in school and in life. Relevance is not antiquated.

. . . that acknowledge and incorporate tribal perspectives . . .