The declaration “emphasizes the rights of Indigenous peoples to maintain and strengthen their own institutions, cultures and traditions, and to pursue their development in keeping with their own needs and aspirations.” The declaration “prohibits discrimination against indigenous peoples” and “promotes their full and effective participation in all matters that concern them and their right to remain distinct and to pursue their own visions of economic and social development.” The U.S. is one of four countries to vote against it in 2007, but in 2010 President Barack Obama declares the nation’s support.