Jerry Moran: “I rise this afternoon to address my colleagues about a circumstance in Kansas and, really, in the country, the pressing…”

“I rise this afternoon to address my colleagues about a circumstance in Kansas and, really, in the country, the pressing need for reform at Haskell Indian Nations University following serious allegations and finding of wrongdoing by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Education. Haskell University is a university located in Lawrence, KS. Haskell is the sole Tribal Nations University in the country and was established by the Department of the Interior for the purpose of maintaining the Federal Government's trust responsibilities and treaty agreements to the Native Americans. Haskell University serves as a custodian of Tribal culture, offering students the opportunity to receive tuition-free higher education in an environment that understands and prioritizes indigenous values. Yet despite its critical importance, Haskell has faced significant challenges. Haskell's campus, which once served as a sanctuary for Native American art and history, has for years been neglected by the Bureau of Indian Education. Various buildings on campus, many which serve as U.S. National Historic Landmarks, are in disrepair or no longer in use. Many of the residential buildings on campus are not equipped with heating, ventilation, or air-conditioning, and the campus is not--not-- compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.…”