During the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations' American Indian and Alaska Native Public Witness Day, a stark message emerged: the federal government is failing to meet its obligations to tribal communities. Testimonies from tribal leaders highlighted a critical lack of funding for essential services, including healthcare, public safety, and mental health support.

One poignant account came from a representative of the Fort Belknap Indian Community, who expressed deep frustration over the inadequate funding from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). "The federal government doesn't care about the tribes," he stated, emphasizing that despite a slight increase in funding over two decades, the needs of the community remain unmet. He shared a personal tragedy, revealing that his son lost his life due to insufficient mental health resources, a crisis affecting many on reservations.

The testimony underscored a broader issue: the bureaucratic mismanagement of funds intended for tribal services. Leaders called for an investigation into how these funds are allocated, arguing that much of the money remains trapped within administrative layers rather than reaching the communities that desperately need it. "We shouldn't have to sue the federal government for what's rightfully ours," he lamented.

Harlan Baker, chairman of the Rocky Boy Reservation, echoed these sentiments, urging Congress to protect the Indian Health Service (IHS) budget from cuts. He pointed out that chronic underfunding leads to higher rates of preventable health conditions in tribal communities. Baker also stressed the importance of Medicaid, which provides a significant portion of funding for tribal health programs, and called for continued support for advanced appropriations to ensure the sustainability of healthcare facilities.

The discussions revealed a pressing need for increased resources to combat rising crime and drug trafficking on reservations, with leaders advocating for enhanced funding for public safety and justice programs. The testimonies painted a picture of communities grappling with systemic neglect, pleading for a "hand up" rather than a "handout."

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation was clear: without immediate action and a commitment to uphold treaty obligations, the health and safety of tribal communities remain at risk. The leaders' heartfelt appeals serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by American Indian and Alaska Native populations, highlighting the critical need for federal accountability and support.