Davids Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Importance of Tribal Colleges and Universities

Yesterday, Representative Sharice Davids introduced a bipartisan resolution designating the week of February 5, 2023 as "National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week." The resolution recognizes the importance of these institutions to the economic, educational, and social well-being of Indian Country. Davids serves as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and was one of the first two Native women elected to Congress.

"Tribal Colleges and Universities, including Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas, provide unique educational opportunities for Native and non-Native students, and support the communities they serve through entrepreneurial and equivalency programs," said Davids. "I am proud to lead my colleagues from both parties in re-introducing this legislation in the 118th Congress. I'll continue to support these institutions because they succeed in developing our workforce capacity with knowledge and skills grounded in cultural traditions and values."

This resolution recognizes the 35 accredited Tribal colleges and universities, which serve students from more than 230 federally recognized Indian Tribes, operating on 90 campuses across 15 states. Similar legislation has passed Congress each of the past six years.

Davids' bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Congressional Native American Caucus Co-Chair Representative Tom Cole (R-OK-04), as well as Representatives Mary Sattler Peltola (D-AK-AL), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01), Derek Kilmer (D-WA-06), Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Daniel T. Kildee (D-MI-08), John Moolenar (R-MI-02), Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-03), and Pete Stauber (R-MN-08).