[TL-Directors] FW: CALL TO ACTION: Responding to the Loss of Federal Funding to Indigenous Cultural Institutions

[MAURER Jennifer * SLO]

FYI Jen (Jen Maurer, School Library Consultant, State Library of Oregon, jennifer.maurer at slo.oregon.gov<mailto:jennifer.maurer at slo.oregon.gov>)

From: Susan Feller, President & CEO <president at atalm.org>
Sent: Monday, April 7, 2025 10:27 AM
To: MAURER Jennifer * SLO <jennifer.maurer at slo.oregon.gov>
Subject: CALL TO ACTION: Responding to the Loss of Federal Funding to Indigenous Cultural Institutions

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Dear Jennifer,
We are reaching out at a critical moment for Indigenous cultural institutions across the United States. President Trump’s recent Executive Orders target the elimination of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)<https://atalm.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1b5fd0b3926b2a0236f0325a1&id=e0cf361321&e=ca34d32c32> and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)<https://atalm.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1b5fd0b3926b2a0236f0325a1&id=0b7e1d13ec&e=ca34d32c32>. The elimination of these Congressionally mandated agencies threatens the future of USA-based Indigenous archives, libraries, museums, cultural centers, historic preservation offices, and language programs.

To respond effectively, we need YOUR help.

If you are a Native cultural institution or an organization serving USA-based Indigenous communities, we invite you to complete the Impact of the Loss or Reduction of Federal Funding on Tribal Cultural Institutions Survey<https://atalm.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1b5fd0b3926b2a0236f0325a1&id=283831ad72&e=ca34d32c32>. This survey is designed to encourage broad participation, even if you have not received federal funding.

The information you provide will shape a unified response that ensures Native voices are heard. Since time is of the essence, we need your responses by Friday, April 11, 2025.

Even if you are not affiliated with a cultural institution, your support is needed. Please contact your Congressional representatives to ask them to protect and restore funding for Native cultural institutions. Talking points are provided at the end of this message. Frequent contact is encouraged.

We recognize the heavy burden you carry and appreciate the time and knowledge you contribute. Together, we can protect what generations have built and ensure that Indigenous cultural work continues to thrive.

With deep respect and gratitude,

Walter Echo-Hawk, Chairman of the Board
Susan Feller, President & CEO

Email: president at atalm.org<mailto:president at atalm.org>
Website: www.atalm.org<https://atalm.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1b5fd0b3926b2a0236f0325a1&id=14ac779136&e=ca34d32c32>
Talking Points for Contacting Members of Congress
Protecting Federal Support for Tribal Cultural Institutions
Find your representatives here: https://www.congress.gov/members<https://atalm.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1b5fd0b3926b2a0236f0325a1&id=28bb7938fc&e=ca34d32c32>

Brief Statement: (feel free to copy and/or tailor to your needs): President Trump’s recent Executive Orders targeting the elimination of the NEH and IMLS place vital federal funding for Native cultural institutions in serious jeopardy. These Congressionally mandated agencies have long enjoyed bipartisan support because they serve the public good, strengthen education, and protect America’s diverse cultural heritage. I urge you, as my Congressional representative, to act swiftly to overturn these orders and restore full funding. Without federal funding, many Native organizations face staff layoffs, program cuts, or even closure. Your support helps preserve irreplaceable cultural knowledge and strengthens Indigenous communities nationwide.

Personalize the Statement:

  *   Share how you or your organization has benefited from NEH or IMLS funding.
  *   Explain the real-world consequences of losing that support.
  *   Invite your representative to visit your institution, attend an event, or meet with your community.
Why Federal Funding Matters to Indigenous Cultural Institutions:

  *   Archives, libraries, museums, and cultural centers are pillars of cultural revitalization and education in Native communities.
  *   NEA, NEH, and IMLS provide critical, often irreplaceable support.
  *   More than 85% of Native cultural institutions rely on federal grants to survive.
  *   These agencies help fund language preservation, collections care, exhibitions, community events, and digital access. For many tribal organizations, these grants are the only source of funding for cultural programming.
  *   Loss of funding puts Native heritage and knowledge at risk. Without these resources, programs will be cut, staff may be laid off, and generations of cultural work could be lost, especially in rural and underserved areas.

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