Data from Native American Rights Fund (NARF) highlights the limitations of exit polls by Edison Research and the misrepresentation of Native communities

 (NOA), and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)

 addressed the misleading and incomplete data surrounding Native voter turnout and support as depicted in the 

 conducted by the National Election Pool (NEP) and Edison Research.

Recent exit polls by National Election Pool (NEP) and Edison Research, have sparked concern due to significant limitations in methodology and scope, misrepresenting the number of Native peoples who voted for the Republican presidential candidate. Preliminary data shared by NARF shows otherwise – state-specific outcomes indicate that often as the state based population of Native Americans increases so does the support for Democratic candidates. For example, in counties with majority Native populations, support for the Democratic candidate was larger than support for the Republican candidate in states such as Montana (67% to 28%), North Dakota (72% to 27%), South Dakota (63% to 33%), and Wisconsin (87% to 12%). Native voters are not a monolith, however, and in counties with majority Native populations in states like Oklahoma, there was a preference for the Republican candidate (63% to 37%). These preliminary results will continue to shift as data continues to be collected and votes continue to be counted in many Western states with high Native American populations.

Edison Research and NEP’s exit poll data of 229 Native peoples is not reflective of the diversity of Indian Country due to its limited scope. This year, the NEP/Edison Research exit polls were conducted at only 279 election-day polling places and 27 early in-person voting locations. This exclusion of a substantial portion of early and absentee voters often results in an incomplete and skewed portrayal of the electorate. The methodology selects specific polling sites to represent the broader population, and this approach misses critical components specific to capturing Native American voter preferences. It remains unclear if Native voters from rural areas were accurately included to the degree of their urban and suburban counterparts, and notably, zero of the 306 polling places surveyed were on Tribal lands. In addition, respondents from the South were overly represented in the NEP/Edison polling (35%), compared to the respondents in the West (23%), Midwest (22%), and the East (21%). According to Dr. Stephanie Fryberg, Founding Director of the Research for Indigenous Social Action & Equity Center (RISE) at Northwestern University, the 

was insufficient to draw reliable conclusions about the nationwide voting trends within Native. In fact, the rush to report out on one exit poll of 229 Native people resulted in more questions than answers.

According to NARF, preliminary voter turnout in the majority-Native counties suggests a drop from 53.3% in 2020 to 48.8% in 2024, displaying a decline of nearly 10,000 votes that is reflective of the low voter turnout seen nationwide. This decline underscores the significant barriers that Native voters face in casting their ballots, as highlighted by the 

, which points to challenges such as absentee ballots not arriving on time, polling places being too far away, and a lack of transportation. The comprehensive survey conducted by IllumiNative and the Native Organizers Alliance—the largest Native-led, nationally representative survey in the U.S.—further emphasizes these obstacles by capturing the voices and perspectives of Native communities across the country.

Indeed, structural barriers throughout Indian Country continue to stifle Native American participation in federal and state elections. On Election Day, the Native American Rights Fund sent 170 poll watchers throughout Indian Country who reported ongoing challenges faced by Native Americans including mismarked and distant polling sites, rejection of qualifying tribal ID, problems arising from the lack of residential addresses, hours long wait times, and lack of quality internet impacting voter services available to Native voters. Incidences of voter intimidation and escalated police presence were also reported. These observations only add to the voluminous record that voting across Indian Country remains unreasonably burdensome, as documented through the Native American Rights Fund’s 

extensive research and recorded voter experiences

“It is important to gather and share accurate data about Native voter preferences, but it is equally important that we acknowledge the systemic obstacles that are keeping Native voices from being heard at all. At the Native American Rights Fund, we continue to document and battle the lack of equal opportunities to register and vote in Native communities: long distances to polling locations, inadequate housing, and no home mail delivery are still preventing Native communities from equitable voting opportunities,” 

said Jacqueline De León (Isleta Pueblo) of the Native American Rights Fund.

 “How many voters were disenfranchised this election season? How many votes were left on the table? So, yes, let's make sure that we report out accurate numbers on the influence and power of Native voters, but let’s also make sure that we continue to work toward free and fair elections that allow Native voters to have a voice.”“While national data points to turnout challenges and a lack of turnout in general, it’s essential to recognize the generational efforts within Indian Country that have empowered and engaged our communities in American Democracy,”

 said Michael Johnson (Three Affiliated Tribes of North Dakota), President of IllumiNative. 

“Our Natives Vote campaign was part of a larger community movement that has mobilized Native people and communities nationwide. Our Nations, communities and allies remain resilient and determined, and we will continue to strive for equitable representation in all facets of American life.”

“Accurate representation is vital to our democracy. The National Congress of American Indians calls for an equitable and comprehensive approach to exit polling that truly reflects Native voices across Indian Country,” 

said Mark Macarro (Pechanga Band of Indians), President of National Congress of American Indians.

 “Our communities, especially in rural and tribal areas, demand to be reported on with diligence and accuracy. Native voter influence must not be distorted and diminished. NCAI stands committed to ensuring that all Native votes contribute fully to the national discourse and to the advocacy of Tribal sovereignty.”

The 2024 election was a pivotal moment that highlighted both progress and challenges. The 

, led by IllumiNative and NOA, bolstered turnout by reaching Native voters nationwide through on the ground and online efforts including community organizing training, digital organizing, phone banking, and local grantee investment.

“We partnered with Tribes and Native community groups in 12 states and worked with more than 160 Native community organizers on the ground,” 

said Judith LeBlanc (Caddo), Executive Director of Native Organizers Alliance.

 “Despite facing challenges such as limited polling locations, language, distances, and restrictive voter ID laws, Native communities were mobilized to exercise their constitutional right to vote. And now, we’re in a better position to activate our ground game to protect our sovereignty and sacred places and drive turnout in the next election”

Record-setting turnout in 2020 demonstrated the power of the Native vote and major policy shifts were enacted after the 2020 elections. Tribes and Native organizers are determined to organize for action on climate, economic security and sovereignty, because voting is only one part of democracy, power building is the heart of shifting to community-based policies. In order to foster long-term participation and amplify Native voices beyond major election cycles, it is essential to provide comprehensive data that accurately represents the wide-ranging beliefs and impact of Native voters.

is a Native woman-led racial and social justice organization dedicated to increasing the visibility of—and challenging the narrative about—Native peoples. Our mission is to build power for Native peoples by amplifying contemporary Native voices, stories, and issues to advance justice, equity, and self-determination. We envision a future where the self-determination and sovereignty of Native peoples is respected and supported; where our children see themselves reflected in the world around them; and where Native peoples author and drive our own narrative.

 is a national Native network dedicated to power building and organizing capacity of tribes, and community groups for transformational policy change. It also provides a forum for tribal leaders, grassroots Native organizers and organizations to work in collaboration with each other and promote their work with non-Native national allies.

NARF is the Nation’s premiere nonprofit 501c(3) organization focused on applying existing laws and treaties to guarantee that federal and state governments live up to their legal obligations to Native Americans. Since 1970, 

 has provided specialized legal assistance to Native American Tribal Nations, organizations, and individuals nationwide to assert and defend the most important Native rights. In hundreds of major cases. NARF has achieved significant results in critical areas such as tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, natural resource protection, voting rights, and Indian education. 

 articulates the barriers faced by Native voters, advocates for equitable voting laws, and uses the courts to defend the fundamental right to vote. Like us 

 to learn about the latest fights to promote justice and protect Native American rights.

About National Congress of American Indians

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the United States. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communities, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies. NCAI promotes an understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights. For more information, visit 

Native Organizations Address 2024 Presidential Election Exit Polls

Tribal sovereignty will endure. This National Native Heritage Month, as the United States navigates a pivotal transition, the National Congress of American Indians stands resolute in defending tribal sovereignty, honoring our treaty and trust obligations, and safeguarding the well-being of Native communities. Together with federal and state partners, we are determined to protect the hard-won advances of Indian Country through times of uncertainty and change.

Our mission carries forward the legacy of those who have fought tirelessly for our rights as the original peoples of this land—land protected, cherished, and sustained by our ancestors–and where our descendants will continue to thrive. We deeply value the support of our members, allies, and partners who recognize the importance of recent strides in Native representation, advocacy, and resilience. Now is the time to come together to hold firm our communities’ victories and plan for a future where they may continue to flourish.

NCAI Reaffirms Its Commitment to Defending Tribal Sovereignty and Honoring Treaty and Trust Commitments

During the 2024 NCAI Mid-Year Convention, the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) Board of Directors submitted Resolution 

. This 25-year plan, launched by the Protect ICWA Campaign, identifies priorities for protecting the 

 and strengthening the capacity of tribal child welfare programs.

Today marks the rollout of ICWA 2050, honoring the 46th anniversary of the enactment of ICWA, which went into effect on November 8, 1978.

"ICWA 2050 not only fortifies protections for Native children today but also builds a path for generations to come, ensuring that our children remain grounded in their cultures and communities," said National Congress of American Indians Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. in NICWA's most recent press release. "This forward-looking strategy reflects the strength of tribal sovereignty and collaboration across Indian Country, empowering Tribal Nations to lead in defining the future of child welfare for Native families. The National Congress of American Indians and its members are proud to support and join this vision, rooted in the resilience and self-determination of our communities."

For additional updates, follow along on Instagram at 

NICWA Announces the Rollout of ICWA 2050

It has come to NCAI's attention that inflammatory materials were distributed during our annual convention without the consent or approval of NCAI. This is a violation of the code of conduct by which all members are bound. It is an unacceptable breach of the standards and spirit of community, consensus, and inclusion that NCAI works hard to promote and safeguard. We regret and apologize for the divisiveness this unethical action has caused. 

We also apologize to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina for this insult. 

Furthermore, we demand the common decency and respect our community deserves. As a reminder, printed materials intended for distribution during our conventions must be submitted for review and approval by NCAI in advance. Our staff works hard to ensure we deliver the highest-quality event possible, and we plan to move forward with the expectation of decorum and integrity.

Convention Participant Code of Conduct here.

NCAI Statement and Apology to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) commends President Biden for his historic apology for the United States’s Federal Indian Boarding School policies. This unprecedented acknowledgment of this dark chapter of our history represents a significant step in recognizing the trauma, pain, and perseverance of our grandparents who suffered these policies which aimed to erase our cultures and identities.

This apology is part of a shared journey toward healing and solidarity. President Biden, as noted in his statement, has executed policies that have strengthened tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. This includes the appointment of Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve as a member of a Presidential Cabinet. Secretary Haaland’s presence, voice, and tenacity to bring the Federal Indian Boarding School chapter to light contributes to this important apology and its timing. Her presence in the Cabinet and her unwavering dedication to Indian Country have helped make this moment possible.

Still, true healing and justice demand further action. We urge Congress to pass legislation that would further illuminate this history and support the ongoing journey toward healing. We ask the administration to expedite the return of our relatives buried on these former school grounds to their rightful resting places.

As proud citizens of our Tribal Nations and of the United States, we hold hope that this historic moment will be a catalyst for lasting, reparative measures. We remain vigilant and committed to seeing this promise honored, trusting that this apology will open the door to deeper understanding, justice, and healing for Indian Country.

NCAI Statement on President Biden's Apology for Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has issued a proposed rule for the federal tax status of tribally chartered entities, clarifying that wholly-owned tribal entities are not subject to federal income tax. This rule would also affect eligibility for certain clean energy tax credits through the Inflation Reduction Act reserved for entities without federal tax liability. This is the second set of proposed rules coming from the Treasury over the past few weeks regarding the sovereignty and self-determination of Tribal Nations and their economies.

"Sovereigns do not tax other sovereigns; governments do not tax other governments. This second tranche of new draft regulations respects tribal sovereignty as a foundation and puts a premium on tribal self-determination. The federal government understands that tribal revenue generation should not be taxed," said NCAI President Mark Macarro. "These draft rules make clear that the U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS value the input of Tribal Nations and tribal leadership it has received through the years. This tilt toward embracing tribal sovereignty in federal rulemaking should not be anomalous. With the leadership Treasury has shown, now other agencies' leadership will see that the primacy of tribal government decision-making is valued."

This proposed rule comes after 30 years of Tribal Nations requesting clarification and consultations with Tribal Nations and the Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee. 

The U.S. Department of the Treasury will hold virtual tribal consultations on 

, and we urge Tribal Nations to participate in these historic conversations. 

The Treasury is accepting public comments in writing or electronically until 

Treasury Proposes Rule Regarding Federal Tax Status of Tribally Chartered Entities

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) commends the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) for releasing new proposed rules under the Tribal General Welfare Exclusion Act of 2014. These proposed regulations mark a critical step forward in recognizing and reinforcing Tribal Nations' sovereignty, allowing us to best meet the needs of our communities. For decades, NCAI has advocated for policies that honor this unique government-to-government relationship between Tribal Nations and the United States.

The proposed regulations, developed through extensive consultation with Tribal leaders, assert the primacy of Tribal prerogative. They uphold the principles of self-determination by recognizing that Tribal Nations are best equipped to meet their citizens' needs. By ensuring that vital funding for housing, education, and cultural preservation remains exempt from federal taxation, the rules enhance tribal governments' ability to serve their communities effectively and without unnecessary federal oversight, strengthening their capacity to fulfill their responsibilities.

Moreover, these proposed regulations demonstrate a profound respect for cultural diversity and preservation by empowering Native communities to define our cultural and ceremonial activities– a long-standing priority for NCAI. By acknowledging Tribal Nations’ authority to shape the scope and structure of our welfare programs, the Treasury affirms the importance of upholding tribal sovereignty.


NCAI urges leaders to actively participate in the ongoing consultation process to ensure the rules fully reflect the needs of Indian Country. Moving forward, NCAI remains committed to advocating for regulations that protect the intrinsic rights, economic opportunities, and cultural values of our Native communities.

Read the Treasury and IRS's press statement 

NCAI Statement on the U.S. Treasury's Proposed Tribal General Welfare Exclusion Rules


The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) strongly condemns the remarks made by Montana GOP Senate candidate Tim Sheehy, in which he used offensive language to stereotype Native people. Such harmful rhetoric has no place in public discourse, especially from those seeking elected office. These derogatory comments are a stark reminder of the persistent racism that Native communities continue to face.

For over 80 years, NCAI has stood at the forefront of advocating for justice and equality for Tribal Nations. The casual use of racist stereotypes not only degrades the dignity of Native people but perpetuates systemic issues of discrimination in areas such as healthcare, education, and justice. This kind of language undermines the work we do every day to protect tribal sovereignty, promote self-determination, and ensure the well-being of future generations.

We call on Mr. Sheehy to publicly retract and apologize for his remarks and to take meaningful steps to educate himself on the long and rich history of Native Peoples in Montana and across this country. We expect our elected leaders and those who seek public office to uphold the highest standards of respect and integrity, particularly when discussing historically marginalized communities.

NCAI remains committed to holding public officials accountable when they engage in rhetoric that seeks to divide rather than unify. We will not stand idly by while Native communities are targeted with racism and bigotry. We urge all Americans to join us in demanding accountability and respect for all Tribal Nations and to work towards a future where all voices are heard and valued equally.



For further information or inquiries, please contact ncaipress@ncai.org


NCAI Denounces Offensive Remarks by Montana Senate Candidate Tim Sheehy

“The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) strongly condemns the violence that occurred against former U.S. President Donald Trump. We extend our deepest condolences to those affected. Our ancestors have fought for and upheld the right to resolve differences through peaceful and rational discourse. It is through this legacy that we advocate for the use of rational dialogue and the democratic process, including the power of our vote, to address conflicts and shape our nation’s future.”

- Mark Macarro - President, National Congress of American Indians

Jantzen Hale, NCAI Media Relations Associate

NCAI Condemns Violence, Calls for Peaceful Resolution of Differences Through Democratic Processes


Jantzen Hale, National Congress of American Indians, 

Amy M. Echo-Hawk, Native American Rights Fund, 

WASHINGTON, D.C. | Today, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed that the 1975 Indian Self-Determination Act (ISDA) mandates the Indian Health Service (IHS) to reimburse Tribal Nations for the expenditures of revenues collected from third-party payors such as Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers. This ensures that Tribal Nation healthcare programs operate on equal footing with IHS-run programs, as intended by the ISDA. The Court consolidated 

 and held that the ISDA and the ISDA contracts require the Tribal Nations to collect revenues from third-party payors and spend that revenue to further their respective healthcare programs. As a result, the costs to Tribal Nations of spending these revenues on further healthcare services must also be eligible for contract support cost reimbursement from IHS.

“Today’s decision is a victory for tribal self-determination and tribal sovereignty,” said National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Mark Macarro. “This ruling ensures that Tribal Nations administering healthcare services to their citizens and communities do so with the full funding to which they are entitled under federal law and contracts with the Indian Health Service.”

John Echohawk, Executive Director of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), agreed. “Congress passed the Indian Self-Determination Act with the purpose of empowering Tribal Nations and ensuring that tribally-run healthcare programs would be on equal footing with those run by the Indian Health Service. This decision honors the commitment Congress made to Tribal Nations’ rights to self-determination.”

affirm the Ninth and Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals’ wins by the tribes, making these victories applicable nationwide. Both Tribal Nations sued to ensure full contract support cost reimbursement from IHS related to the direct healthcare services they provide on their respective reservations. Today’s decision follows two previous rulings by the Court that under ISDA, Tribal Nations are eligible for contract support costs because they incur overhead and other costs to run their healthcare programs that IHS-run programs do not.

About the National Congress of American Indians:

NARF is a non-profit 501c(3) organization focused on applying existing laws and treaties to guarantee that federal and state governments live up to their legal obligations to Native Americans. Since 1970, the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) has provided specialized legal assistance to Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals nationwide to assert and defend the most important Native rights in hundreds of major cases. NARF has achieved significant results in critical areas such as tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, natural resource protection, voting rights, and Indian education. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @NDNrights to learn about the latest fights to promote justice and protect Native American rights. Visit 

In a Victory for Tribal Nations, Supreme Court Affirms that Federal Support for Tribally Run Healthcare Programs Must Be on Equal Footing with IHS Run Programs

Washington, DC—The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) announces the launch of a coordinated, non-partisan, national Native Get Out the Vote Campaign (GOTV). Native voices are essential in every political race. We have seen the impact of the Native Vote on local, state, and national levels. Hence, NCAI is producing a comprehensive GOTV strategy for Tribal Nations to help ensure active engagement in the upcoming federal elections.

NCAI’s GOTV work is intentionally non-partisan. As former NCAI President Jefferson Keel (Chickasaw) used to say, "The work we do is not 'D' for Democrat or 'R' for Republican but 'I' for Indian."

“Our goal is to excite our fellow American Indian and Alaska Native people to vote and to support a "Sovereignty Ticket" of key issues vital to Tribal Nations and their citizens,” explains current NCAI President Mark Macarro (Pechanga Band of Indians).

NCAI is concentrating its efforts across three distinct phases, including various activities to encourage election participation; mobilization and engagement exercises leading up to election day; and, ultimately, technical support for the incoming administration, whomever that may be. Additionally, during the week of August 26, NCAI will host webinars on 

Recognizing the Snyder Act 100th Anniversary—Honoring the Past; Preparing for Our Future.



The Fifteenth Amendment—passed in 1870—granted all U.S. citizens the right to vote regardless of race. However, it wasn't until June 2, 1924 when President Calvin Coolidge signed into law the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924–also known as The Snyder Act– that American Indians and Alaska Natives could enjoy the rights granted by this amendment.

“We want all Natives, young and old, to vote,” says Dr. Aaron Payment (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa), member of the National Advisory Council on Indian Education. “We stand to be the margin of victory in key battleground states. We intend to play a role in shaping policy that relates to us. While we recognize the 100th anniversary of the passage of the so-called ‘Indian Citizenship Act,’ we still have challenges with voter participation and voter suppression.”

Founded in 1944, NCAI is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization serving the broad interests of tribal governments and communities. A nonprofit organization, NCAI advocates for a bright future for generations to come by taking the lead in gaining consensus on a constructive and promising vision for Indian Country. For more information, contact 

NCAI Launches 2024 Native Get Out the Vote Campaign: “Honoring the Past; Preparing for Our Future”

August 7, 2024

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) applauds President Biden’s nomination of Patrice H. Kunesh as the Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). Kunesh, who is of Standing Rock Lakota descent, has demonstrated unwavering dedication to public service and a profound commitment to advancing the interests and well-being of Tribal Nations and communities.

Patrice Kunesh brings an extensive background in tribal, state, and federal service. Currently, she serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs and as the Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans within the Administration for Children and Families in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Her career includes significant contributions to the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, and in academia as a faculty member at the University of South Dakota School of Law.

Kunesh’s experience is further highlighted by her roles as the Deputy Under the Secretary for Rural Development in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Deputy Solicitor for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior, and as a member of the U.S. Treasury Community Development Advisory Board (CDFI Fund) representing Native communities. She also established the Center for Indian Country Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and founded Peȟíŋ Haha Consulting, a social enterprise dedicated to promoting culturally centered Native economic development.

Patrice Kunesh’s confirmation as Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission will mark a significant step forward in strengthening the governance and oversight of Indian gaming, fostering economic development, and enhancing the sovereignty and self-determination of Tribal Nations.

For further information or inquiries, please contact ncaipress@ncai.org

NCAI Supports President Biden’s Nomination of Patrice Kunesh as Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission

As the growth of technology permeates every aspect of our lives, the issue of Tribal Digital Sovereignty is of crucial importance now more than ever. Join us on this episode of The Sentinel as we hear from experts who will help shed light on this subject.

Listeners will learn about the recently launched Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty, a partnership between NCAI and Arizona State University’s American Indian Policy Institute, the first of its kind in Indian Country. We hear from Geoff Blackwell and Matt Rantanen, experts in the field of Tribal Digital Sovereignty, who help us examine the unique challenges that Native communities face with governing their own data, information, and technology.

This episode provides a deeper understanding of the intersection of technology and Tribal sovereignty, why it matters so much now, and why it is one of the most significant challenges facing the future of Indian Country.

Empowering Tribal Nations in the 21st Century: NCAI and the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty



The survival of American Indian and Alaska Native languages is essential to the success of tribal communities and Native ways of life. However, without urgent and sustained intervention, far too many Native languages risk extinction within the coming decades. In this episode of The Sentinel, we highlight the urgency of this issue, and examine the creative and innovative solutions that many tribal communities are undertaking to counteract language loss.

First, we hear from Daniel Golding (Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe), producer of the documentary “

,” which aired on the PBS network as part of the “Native America” series. Golding sheds light on the inherent challenges of revitalizing Native languages and his own unique personal perspective as he embarked upon learning the Quechan language.

Next, we present segments from the “Native Language Preservation” panel discussion held at the 2024 NCAI Mid Year Convention & Marketplace in Cherokee, North Carolina. Representatives from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Cherokee Nation, Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, and Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe participated in a lively discussion at the Third General Assembly. Panelists recounted the challenges of language preservation, but also shared strategies, projects and techniques that have resulted in successful outcomes for their tribal communities.

Historically, indigenous communities across the globe have passed down their languages from generation to generation. However, colonization and cultural assimilation have jeopardized these languages, pushing them to the brink of extinction. When a language fades, identity

is lost. Preserving languages is critical if we want to promote cultural diversity and richness. Many Native communities rely on oral transmission, rather than written, to pass on knowledge, customs and traditions. As language becomes jeopardized, so does the cultural transmission that goes with it.

Throughout its history, NCAI has been instrumental in the effort to preserve Native languages. The organization’s advocacy has taken on a number of forms including: supporting legislation to protect traditional ways of speaking, calling for increased funding for language education and immersion programs, and formally recognizing that native languages are in a state of emergency.

For example, in 1990, NCAI endorsed the Native American Languages Act, the first major piece of legislation to preserve, promote, and protect Native languages. By the mid-1990s, NCAI began using the resolutions process to further this mission. At the Mid Year Conference in Spokane, Washington, NCAI leaders stated that “the United States government actively suppressed our native languages, directly contributing to their dramatic decline.”

Then, NCAI called upon the federal government to increase funding for Tribal Nations for language recovery and teaching programs. The membership also adopted a resolution addressing Native youth and calling for development and funding of Native language immersion programs in pre-schools, elementary schools, and secondary schools throughout Indian Country. NCAI also established a Native Language Task Force that meets twice annually.

More recently, at the 2024 NCAI Mid Year Convention and Marketplace held in Cherokee, North Carolina, attendees heard from Native language speakers and advocates throughout the meeting sessions. They were able to watch a screening of the documentary “

”, which aired on PBS as part of the highly acclaimed “Native America” series. Then, a breakout session conducted by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians delved into their efforts to preserve and revitalize their language. Lastly, the Third General Assembly hosted a panel on Native Language Preservation featuring a lineup of speakers from the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, the Cherokee Nation, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe.

Out of these discussions came a common theme. While significant progress has been made towards preserving Native languages in recent years, there are still challenges associated with maintaining languages across generations. As younger generations are exposed to other languages through the Western education system and media, the usage of native languages declines. And when communities have limited resources, support and funding for language revitalization efforts, these challenges become even more difficult to overcome.

NCAI recognizes that the preservation of Native languages is not just a linguistic issue, but a basic need to uphold cultural diversity and respect the rights of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples. When a language fades away, it is not only words that are lost, but an entire way of life and understanding of the world.

Beyond Words: The Power Of Native Language Revitalization

Celebrating the First Year of the NCAI Foundation: Lessons in Partnership, Sovereignty, and Impact

By Greg Masten, Yurok, President of the NCAI Foundation

For the past 81 years, the National Congress of American Indians has been at the forefront of many issues that have impacted and shaped what we know as Tribal Nations today. The NCAI legacy was birthed out of necessity—to protect and advocate for our Tribes and Native Peoples. Our leaders of the past carried a sacred trust; they didn’t always want to be Tribal leaders, but in the face of injustice, they stood and fought, not for themselves, but for their families and their people. They hoped for a better future for their children, grandchildren, and future generations—and that hope fueled them to take action.

In continuation of NCAI’s mission, it is that same sacred trust that birthed the NCAI Foundation. We launched the NCAI Foundation on National Philanthropy Day. The Foundation was launched to meet the growing and urgent needs of Tribal Nations and to support Native Peoples in a way and at a scale that had not been done before. There are many complex issues impacting our Native communities. To solve them, we need true partnerships and impact investments requiring deeper strategies that center collaboration and integrate policy, programs, and services at local, regional, and national levels.

It has been clear for some time that philanthropy needs to prioritize and invest more in Native American communities and Tribes. I believe there are many in the philanthropy sector that want to do good, but we need to do the good work, in a good way—based on understanding, with mutual respect and trust, and with an unwavering commitment.

This first year has been a time of laying foundations—literally and figuratively. The pandemic showed the world what we have always known: Tribal Nations are resilient, innovative, and deeply capable of managing their own affairs. Often, we’ve been under-resourced, and in spite of this, we’ve done so much good with so little. But what if we were properly resourced? During the pandemic, and for the first time, philanthropy responded with unrestricted funding, trusting Tribes to define and solve their own challenges. The NCAI Foundation emerged in this context, serving as a critical partner in amplifying these efforts, bridging gaps, and scaling solutions that honor Tribal sovereignty and Native knowledge.

The NCAI Foundation is more than a funding entity; it is the connection point for true collaboration. We have built on NCAI’s long history as a trusted partner with Tribes and continue the legacy of NCAI by working with our national sister organizations, inter-tribal organizations, and Native serving organizations. In the past, NCAI forged the way as a national re-granter, managing federal pass-through funds for decades to ensure they reach Tribal Nations directly. But today, we go further. The Foundation’s unique relationship with Tribes positions us as the conduit to scale investments across multiple areas, from environmental sustainability and digital sovereignty to economic development, education, public health, and other community impacts.

Our Equity and Sovereignty Framework anchors everything we do. Sovereignty is not just a guiding principle; it is the cornerstone of self-determination that leads to effective solutions. Through this lens, we reduce bureaucracy and honor the expertise of Tribal Nations, allowing them to apply resources in ways that work best for their communities. This first year has underscored the power of this approach—investments aligned with sovereignty have real and lasting impact.

While our work in this first year has laid strong foundations, there are still challenges ahead. Invisibility and underinvestment require ongoing efforts to build awareness, shift narratives, shift power dynamics, and expand opportunities. The NCAI Foundation has taken important steps by gathering data, amplifying Tribal voices, and addressing funding gaps that persist across Indian Country. We have shown that we are an effective convener and conduit for these investments as a trusted partner in ensuring they reach where they are most needed.

Looking ahead, the NCAI Foundation’s mission remains clear: to create an ecosystem for collaboration where policy, programs, and services align to support the distinct needs of NCAI, Tribal Nations and Native communities. This work is about more than addressing immediate challenges—it is about building the infrastructure and relationships that will sustain Tribal Nations and Native communities for generations to come.

We are only at the beginning of this journey, but already the lessons are clear. Tribal Nations and Native serving organizations are a good investment. Trust the decision making of their leadership. Invest in the work. Commit to long-term, unrestricted support. These principles have guided our first year and will continue to shape our path moving forward.

I am often asked, “What do you hope for the NCAI Foundation?” My hope is the same, for healthy, thriving Native American communities and Tribes—and that hope would inspire action where every foundation and corporate giving organization would acknowledge the first people of this nation by prioritizing their giving to include Native Peoples with a minimum of 3% of their annual giving. Some foundations have already taken this step, some as high as 50% of their portfolios now supporting Native American communities. Native American people have sacrificed so much for this nation. It is time to give back.

We invite you to join us as we continue this work. In uncertain times, we need to find our center and the world needs Native knowledge now, more than ever. We still carry that sacred trust, and we offer to share that same hope with you. Together, we can honor the old ways of collaboration and responsibility while building a future where Tribal Nations lead, thrive, and inspire a more just and sustainable world.



In this episode of the Sentinel, we mark the one-year anniversary of the NCAI Foundation, established in November 2023. The Foundation was created to unlock philanthropic dollars and build sustaining relationships supporting tribal sovereignty and Native self-determination. The NCAI Foundation is the only one of its kind that upholds these core principles while holding itself directly accountable to Tribal Nations. Funds raised go to support Native-led programs addressing challenges in a wide variety of issues such as food security, health, and education.

Greg Masten, President of the NCAI Foundation, and Dawn Knickerbocker, Vice President of Philanthropic Strategies, join us to report on the success of their efforts and the growth of the Foundation’s reach during their inaugural year. We also learn about the current landscape of Native philanthropy and the specific challenges that tribal communities and Native organizations face when accessing philanthropic dollars. Read the blog post below:

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