Native Voices Matter in Primaries and Midterms

American Indian College Fund encourages Native voter registration for upcoming elections

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:27pm

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A solitary Native American elder in traditional clothing stands on a dimly lit urban street corner, the warm sunlight casting deep shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the enduring struggle for Native voting rights.A solemn reminder of the hard-won right to vote, as Native Americans continue the fight for full political representation.Denver Today

The American Indian College Fund is urging American Indians and Alaska Natives to register to vote in upcoming primaries and midterm elections, emphasizing the importance of Native representation and the federal government's trust and treaty obligations to Tribes. The College Fund is providing resources to help Native students, community members, and supporters register and make their voices heard at the polls on issues like tribal college funding, nutrition assistance, green energy, and immigration.

Why it matters

Native Americans have only had the right to vote for just over 100 years, underscoring the importance of representation and acknowledgment. Tribal citizens are most affected by elections, as federal funding is crucial for everything from education to tribal programming, housing, healthcare, and the local economy for many Tribes who have signed treaties or trust agreements with the federal government.

The details

Recent government action has minimized or ignored the trust and treaty obligations the U.S. has to Tribes and tribal citizens. The College Fund is encouraging Native voter registration to ensure Tribes can weigh in on key issues like federal funding for tribal colleges and universities, Native eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, green energy spending on tribal lands, and immigration.

  • The upcoming primaries and midterm elections are the focus of the College Fund's voter registration push.

The players

American Indian College Fund

A national charity supporting Native higher education for 37 years, providing scholarships, programs, and support for the nation's 35 accredited tribal colleges and universities.

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What’s next

The College Fund is encouraging all Native students, community members, and supporters to register to vote today to be able to cast their ballot in upcoming primaries and midterm elections.

The takeaway

This voter registration campaign highlights the crucial role of Native voices in elections, as Tribal citizens are directly impacted by federal policies and funding decisions. By registering and voting, Native Americans can ensure their communities' needs and treaty rights are upheld by elected officials.