When the U.N. General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples three years ago, only four member states voted against it: Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States.

The declaration sets forth “the minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of the indigenous peoples of the world,” recognizing their right, both collectively and individually, to enjoy all the freedoms laid out in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. It establishes their rights to traditional lands, political participation, cultural expression, and freedom from discrimination, among others.

Last year Australia, under a new government, voted to support the declaration, and this year New Zealand followed suit. Now, in response to recommendations from tribal leaders and NGOs, the Obama administration is also reconsidering the U.S. stance.

In April of this year, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Susan G. Rice announced that the United States had decided to review its position, noting, “We recognize that, for many around the world, this declaration provides a framework for addressing indigenous issues.”

Since then, then State Department and other federal bodies have been holding consultations with Indian tribes, interested NGOs and other stakeholders. The review is due to conclude sometime in October.

Now is the time to encourage the White House to endorse the declaration! Visit the Indian Law Resource Center or Amnesty International to send a letter to President Obama.