Biden Appoints First Native American U.S. Treasurer, Marilynn Malerba

Marilynn Malerba is now the first Native American woman to be appointed as U.S. Treasurer, according to a White House announcement.

In a statement, Malerba praised the effort at representation of Native Americans in the U.S. government.

She spoke about the voices of Native Americans being “respected” as a milestone, considering America’s long history of wars with the natives.

“It is especially important that our Native voices are respected,” she said. “This appointment underscores this administration’s commitment to doing just that. I am excited to serve our communities as Treasurer and for the work ahead.”

As the Treasurer, Malerba will be working alongside the Federal Reserve and be in charge of the U.S. Mint. Malerba’s signature will also appear on all newly minted U.S. currency.

Malerba is also the lifetime chief of the Mohegan tribe. During her time at the reservation, she served in many tribal leadership positions and was also a licensed nurse.

In a statement released by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, she spoke on efforts by the U.S. government to heal relationships with Native tribes.

Yellen wrote: “Chief Malerba will expand our unique relationship with Tribal nations, continuing our joint efforts to support the development of Tribal economies and economic opportunities for Tribal citizens.”

This is not the first time President Joe Biden has appointed a Native American woman to a top government position.

In 2021, Biden appointed Deb Haaland to manage the Interior Department.

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Biden has publicly acknowledged Indigenous People’s Day, becoming the first president to do so.

New funding for Tribal governments has also been a priority of the Biden administration.