OKMULGEE, Okla. – The director of the Muscogee Nation’s Vocational Rehabilitation department, Emma De La Cruz, has been elected as the President of the Consortia of Administrators for Native American Rehabilitation, Inc., also known as CANAR. The selection was announced in a statement on Dec. 11.
CANAR’s mission is, in their own words, “to enhance vocational rehabilitation services for Native Americans and Alaska Natives with disabilities by empowering administrators, coordinating collective stances on rehabilitation matters, fostering communication with relevant organizations, conducting research, promoting professional development, ensuring cultural appropriateness in services, and actively seeking mission-aligned funding opportunities.”
The Muscogee Nation celebrated De La Cruz’s election in a statement by the Office of Public Relations.
“This leadership role reflects Ms. De La Cruz’s dedication to advocacy, equity, and improving opportunities for individuals with disabilities. We are honored to see Ms. De La Cruz represent our Tribe and community on this national platform.”
As President of CANAR, Ms. De La Cruz hopes to collaborate with leaders, advocates, and service providers across the country to help Indigenous communities by advancing policies, raising service standards, and promoting accessibility and inclusion.
“It is a profound honor to be elected as the President of CANAR and to have the opportunity to represent the Muscogee Nation on a national platform,” said Ms. De La Cruz.
More information on the Muscogee Nation’s Vocational Rehabilitation Department can be found at the Muscogee Nation website or by calling them at (918) 623-1197 or toll-free at 1-888-367-2332.
