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John,
Here in the U.S., tribal colleges and universities aren’t just schools, they’re cultural hubs and lifelines for Native communities.
They serve some of the most rural and historically neglected communities in the U.S. They offer affordable, culturally grounded higher education, workforce training, and a chance at economic security.
And now? Congress is considering an 83% cut to their funding.
That would mean more than $100 million gone. Our tribal colleges would go from receiving $127 million in 2024 to just $22 million next year.
These schools already face a $250 million shortfall every year. Some have crumbling infrastructure, outdated facilities, and are understaffed. Others offer programs found nowhere else in the country, like the Institute of American Indian Arts. This isn’t some minor budget tweak — it’s a death sentence for crucial cultural institutions and a betrayal of trust.
The federal government has a treaty obligation to Native nations. We cannot forget the centuries of abuse, forced assimilation, and displacement Native American communities have faced at the hands of our government. Slashing support for higher education is a broken promise — and an attack on Native sovereignty, opportunity, and self-determination.
Sign on today to tell Congress to fully fund Tribal colleges and reject the 83% cut.
Let’s stand up for Native students, educators, and communities and fight for the future they deserve.
– Democratic Values
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