2018-02: Protecting Native Students from Harmful Cuts to Federal Student Aid

WHEREAS, the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) was established in 1970 for the purpose of advocating, planning, and promoting the unique and special educational needs of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians; and

WHEREAS, NIEA as the largest national Indian organization of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian educators, administrators, parents, and students in the United States, provides a forum to discuss and act upon issues affecting the education of Indian and Native people; and

WHEREAS, through its unique relationship with Indian nations and tribes, the federal government has established programs and resources to meet the educational needs of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians, residing on and off their reserved or non-reserved homelands; and

WHEREAS, the number of Native students enrolled in and graduating from associate, bachelor, and master degree programs across the country has doubled in the past 30 years; and

WHEREAS, over 44 percent American Indian and Alaska Native children under the age of 18 come from low income families that are eligible for public assistance programs, qualifying them for federal student grants and loans; and

WHEREAS, between 2004 and 2012, student aid provided through Pell Grants increased by $2,900 while the average cost of attendance for these students increased by $7,400; and

WHEREAS, the average low-income student who graduated in 2004 had yet to repay 91 percent of their student loan debt in 2015, compared to the 59 percent remaining for more affluent students; and

WHEREAS, proposals that restrict access to federal aid and subsidized loan programs or limit repayment schedule options result in fewer Native students attending college and more Native students with student debt.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, NIEA supports opportunities for all Native students to pursue postsecondary education, including through federal loans, grants, and scholarships.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, NIEA urges Congress and the Administration to protect Native students from student loan policies that are harmful to their economic present and future.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, NIEA will continue to advocate for critical protections against harmful changes to the Higher Education Act that would further exacerbate Native student loan debt.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that this resolution shall be the policy of NIEA until it is withdrawn or modified by subsequent resolution.