Luis R. Bruce, a notable figure in Native American politics, was appointed by President Richard Nixon to lead the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), a division of the United States Department of the Interior. Bruce, who identified as Mohawk-Oglala Sioux, had established himself as a significant advocate for the rights of Native Americans, being one of the founding members of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). This appointment came during a period when the federal government was re-evaluating its approach to Native American affairs, moving away from traditional policies of termination and assimilation towards greater autonomy and self-determination for tribes.

Nixon's administration aimed to foster a new relationship with Indigenous populations, emphasizing a commitment to improving conditions for Native Americans. Bruce's leadership in the BIA was expected to facilitate this shift, aligning with his vision for empowering Indigenous communities. His tenure was marked by attempts to address issues such as land rights, education, and health care, which had long been overlooked by federal initiatives. Bruce's background and connections within Native circles were anticipated to help bridge the gap between the government and Indigenous peoples.

Bruce's appointment also occurred coincident with growing activism among Native Americans during the 1960s and 1970s, highlighted by events like the American Indian Movement and the occupation of Alcatraz Island. These movements were pivotal in demanding recognition of treaty rights and amplifying the voices of Indigenous peoples, which led to profound changes in policy towards Native American affairs. Bruce's role in the BIA therefore would not just influence the administrative approach but also respond to the aspirations for justice among Native American communities, setting a precedent for future leaders in that bureau.