The Indigenous Language Institute (ILI) had the honor of attending the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) Annual Hill Week 2025 in Washington, D.C. This event brought together educators, advocates, and tribal leaders to discuss critical issues impacting Indian Education, Native Language revitalization, and funding for tribal communities.
Our week began at the U.S. Capitol, where we heard from a distinguished panel of speakers, including Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury from New Mexico, Congresswoman Emily Randall from Washington, and Senator Lisa Murkowski from Alaska. Each leader shared insights on the current administration’s vision for Indian Education and the urgency of continued investment in Native Languages. During the Q&A session, attendees raised pressing concerns about funding freezes imposed by the Trump Administration, their ongoing impact on tribal education systems, and the need for clear and equitable funding allocations. The resounding message from these discussions emphasized that investing in Indian Education and Native Language programs is essential for the future of Indigenous communities.
Throughout the week, we participated in insightful panel sessions led by experts and leaders from across Indian Country. These discussions focused on key issues such as Native Language revitalization strategies, workforce development, and post-secondary education success at Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). One of the highlights of the week was the advocacy workshop, where participants learned effective strategies for engaging with congressional leaders. This preparation was instrumental in ensuring that our meetings on Capitol Hill were impactful and well-informed.
In our congressional meetings, ILI joined New Mexico educators and the Santo Domingo Pueblo delegation in discussions with the offices of Senator Martin Heinrich, Senator Ben Ray Luján, and Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández. Each office reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Indian Education, addressing concerns regarding Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) school funding, and advocating for increased investment in Native Language programs. We were especially encouraged by their acknowledgment of the importance of funding Native Language programs, protecting sacred sites, and preserving tribal community identities. A critical takeaway from these meetings was the strong stance that Native and Tribal communities must not be solely categorized under Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as Indigenous peoples hold a distinct political status as sovereign nations. This recognition is crucial in ensuring that policies and funding decisions accurately reflect the rights and needs of Native communities.
ILI remains steadfast in its advocacy for Native Language rights, drawing upon the foundational principles set forth in key legislative acts. The Native American Languages Act affirms that "it is the policy of the United States to preserve, protect, and promote the rights and freedom of Native Americans to use, practice, and develop Native American languages." Similarly, the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act reinforces that "the Congress declares its commitment to the maintenance of the Federal Government's unique and continuing relationship with, and responsibility to, individual Indian tribes and to the Indian people as a whole through the establishment of meaningful participation in self-government and education." These acts underscore the responsibility of the federal government to support Indigenous communities in their pursuit of self-determination and language preservation.
The Indigenous Language Institute stands in solidarity with Native communities and remains committed to working alongside them in language learning initiatives. We will continue to travel to communities, provide hands-on support, and advocate for policies that uphold and strengthen Indigenous languages. One thing remains clear—our tribal communities deserve to be heard. ILI will continue to listen, advocate, and assist with any necessary efforts to ensure that their voices are represented. We encourage our partners and community members to remain engaged and proactive in these conversations. Together, we can ensure that Native Education and Language Revitalization remain national priorities.
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