When Colorado became a state in 1876, it acquired millions of acres of land that had been historically managed and inhabited by Tribal Nations, with the intention of funding public education. Today, revenue generated from these trust lands, overseen by the State Land Board, continues to support schools across Colorado. However, Native students, whose communities contributed this land, still face the lowest graduation rates and some of the greatest disparities within the state's education system. 

This issue is not only about fairness; it is also a legal and moral obligation. The land funding Colorado’s schools was obtained through processes that were frequently illegal or coercive. Addressing this historical injustice requires more than mere acknowledgment; it calls for decisive action. 

We urge the Colorado State Legislature to enact legislation that allocates a portion of School Land Trust revenue to a permanent, statewide Indian Education fund. This investment would provide culturally relevant educational resources, teacher training, student programs, and accountability measures to ensure that Native students are no longer overlooked. 

By signing this petition, you are urging lawmakers to take meaningful action towards truth, accountability, and an education system that serves all students, especially those whose land made K-12 education in Colorado possible.

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