In the 1970s, Congress committed to funding a higher education system controlled by Indigenous communities through tribal colleges and universities. However, a recent investigation by ProPublica reveals the stark reality faced by these institutions due to decades of financial neglect.
Despite President Joe Biden declaring tribal schools a priority, funding increases have been insufficient to address the crumbling buildings and budget constraints. The Bureau of Indian Education, responsible for requesting funds, has never sought the full amount required by law, leading to dilapidated facilities and limited academic resources.
This lack of funding, amounting to a quarter-billion dollars below the inflation-adjusted level, has left tribal colleges struggling to meet the needs of their expanding student bodies and maintain adequate infrastructure. While the law mandates funding at $8,000 per student, current allocations fall far short, hindering the colleges’ ability to provide quality education and support to their students.
Despite these challenges, tribal colleges remain resilient, serving as vital institutions that preserve Indigenous languages, offer valuable career training, and provide a welcoming environment for Native students. The ongoing struggle for adequate funding underscores the urgent need for Congress to fulfill its commitment to these essential educational institutions.
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