Attending University, I have met many Native students that are enrolled in tribes outside of our local jurisdiction, even though they've lived here their entire lives. The close-knit community that we've built and the cultural ties that bind us are testament to the strength and resilience of Native traditions. However, proposed changes to the Native American tuition waiver threaten to disadvantage these students by excluding those registered with out-of-state tribes and descendants.



The tuition waiver program has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for countless Native students. By enabling access to higher education, it has empowered many to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to their communities and beyond. Altering this waiver would result in the loss of a critical financial aid source for numerous students who are as much a part of our state as those with in-state tribe enrollment.



According to the National Congress of American Indians, about 78% of Native Americans live outside tribal lands, often due to historical displacement policies. The current waiver system acknowledges these historical contexts and strives to offer reparative support by including all Native students.

It is crucial to recognize that the waiver does not merely support education; it upholds the cultural identity and right to community for Native students residing here.

Changing the eligibility would lead to educational inequities and further disenfranchise Native populations, contradicting efforts toward reconciliation and inclusivity.

We urge policymakers to preserve the current tuition waiver program, ensuring that it remains accessible to all Native American students regardless of their tribal registration location and decadency. Sustaining this support means honoring our shared history and investing in a diverse and vibrant future.

Please join us in advocating for the educational rights of all Native students by signing this petition.