On Point | Podcast
How Trump administration cuts threaten Native Americans
Apr 22, 2025
Mary Annette Pember, a national correspondent for ICT News and an enrolled member of the Ojibwe tribe, joins Aaron Payment, a tribal council member and advocate for treaty obligations. They discuss the significant impact of federal budget cuts on Native American communities, highlighting the loss of vital services, such as healthcare and education. The conversation also touches on the crucial role of tribal colleges and the urgent need for the government to honor its commitments to tribes. They emphasize the importance of collaboration and self-sufficiency amid rising challenges.
46:12
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Quick takeaways
- Federal budget cuts under the Trump administration have critically impacted essential services for Native American communities, exacerbating health and food insecurity issues.
- The U.S. government has a legal and moral obligation to uphold treaty commitments, which include providing vital health and educational services to Indigenous tribes.
Deep dives
Challenges of Rural Life on Reservations
The Fort Belknap Indian Reservation in Montana faces significant challenges due to its rural setting, with limited access to basic necessities like grocery stores and healthcare. Many families live 40 to 50 miles from the nearest store, which struggles to provide fresh produce and diverse food options. Tessa Hawley, a resident, highlights that the scarcity of healthy food contributes to high rates of diabetes and heart disease in the community. To combat these issues, she initiated the Day Eagle Hope Project, a nonprofit aimed at providing medical and behavioral health care as well as nutritious food supplies.
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