Less than 2 weeks ago, we learned that our Early Head Start and Head Start early childhood education programs at the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation in Seattle will be defunded after June 30, 2013. The Head Start preschool at United Indians has been in existence for 27 years, and we have had hundreds of Native students as well as non native students of other backgrounds come through our doors.

We are heartbroken by the loss of this program. But this is a new day, and we are ready to make a new path forward. Early childhood education is one of the most critical investments we can make for our children’s future. Native kids in Seattle need a preschool program that nurtures their brains, bodies, and spirits, and that helps them know and love their community, their traditions, and themselves.

Please invest in our lil Native learners and families. Support the Native community organizing ourselves to build the education systems we need. Please help us start a new Native preschool in Seattle!