The House Committee on Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, along with the House Committee on Education and Workforce’s Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, has continued its investigation into post-secondary schools managed by the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE).
“As Congress, and a nation, we have a trust responsibility to Indian Country that cannot be pushed aside. Numerous wrongdoings at Haskell and other tribal schools have gone on far too long and tribal students deserve better. Rather than ignoring these troubling issues, more can and should be done to empower these institutions, with the input of tribes, to be the best versions of themselves,” stated Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.
Burgess Owens (R-Utah), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, emphasized: “Education is the key to unlocking the American Dream. That is why it is so critical all students, including Native Americans, have access to a high-quality education. Yet too many Native American students are forced to learn in an unsafe environment, plagued by bullying and sexual harassment. This must end.”
The BIE’s two post-secondary institutions—Haskell Indian Nations University (HINU) and Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI)—have reportedly faced issues such as lack of oversight, criminal wrongdoing, declining graduation rates, and deteriorating facilities.
Despite calls for action from tribal students, there has been criticism directed at the Biden administration’s Department of the Interior for not responding adequately to these concerns at both HINU and SIPI.
During the 118th Congress session, claims of misconduct within BIE-operated schools were investigated by both committees. This included seeking information from the Biden administration about allegations at HINU. A joint hearing was held on July 23, 2024, featuring testimonies from former faculty members like Dr. Ronald Graham.
The investigation revealed significant oversight failures by BIE that permitted various forms of misconduct such as payroll fraud, embezzlement, retaliation against employees and students, mishandling sexual assault cases, non-compliance with federal background checks requirements among other issues.
Today’s hearing marks another step in addressing misconduct at these institutions while aiming for solutions that improve educational conditions for their students.
