Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation, which ensures that presidents of Tribal colleges and universities, TCUs, will have a direct voice on the National Advisory Council on Indian Education. This bill is a necessary step to guarantee that TCUs, institutions that serve as educational hubs for Native-American communities, always have a voice in Federal funding discussions that directly impact their colleges. As many of my colleagues know, the Federal Government holds a unique trust responsibility to the Native and Tribal communities, a responsibility that is not just a legal obligation, but a moral one. This trust is rooted in both the U.S. Constitution and centuries of commitments to Native communities. Tribal colleges and universities pursue a unique mission. Not only do they educate Native communities, but they also preserve and advance Native-American culture and traditions. TCUs are central to the survival of Native languages, history, and cultural practices, all while providing access to higher education and advancing economic opportunities for Native students. Having TCU representation will help to advise the NACIE as they fulfill one of their duties in advising the Education, Health, and Labor Secretaries in ways to strengthen TCUs and increase TCU participation in Federal agency programs.…”