In a recent interview with The Imprint, Katie Hamm, deputy assistant secretary for the Office of Early Childhood Development, shared the Biden administration’s efforts to expand support for Tribal early childhood programs. Recognizing historical harm done by federal policies to Native communities, Hamm spoke about the administration’s commitment to strengthening culturally grounded programs that support Native children and families and acknowledged the urgent need for resources in Tribal early childhood programs.
Limited Availability of Resources in Tribal Communities
One of the biggest challenges, Hamm explained, is the lack of sufficient resources in Tribal communities. Many Tribes, especially those in remote areas, struggle to access necessary early childhood services like child care, Head Start, and educational programs. She acknowledged that many Tribal leaders continue to express an urgent need for increased funding to meet the high demand for these programs in their communities.
How Expanded Resources Could Strengthen Cultural Identity
Hamm emphasized that expanding resources in Tribal communities would allow more Native children to experience culturally rooted education during their formative years. This immersion in language, tradition, and community has the potential to foster a lasting sense of self and strengthen cultural identity, which is especially important given the historical loss caused by boarding schools.
The Structure of Federal Support for Tribal Programs
The ACF supports three main funding streams for Tribal early childhood initiatives: Tribal Home Visiting, Head Start, and the Child Care Development Fund. Hamm highlighted that Head Start, in particular, allows tribes to incorporate cultural knowledge and language into early childhood education, adapting curriculum to meet their communities' unique needs while adhering to health and developmental standards. Hamm described the unique benefits of Tribal Home Visiting programs, which embody Indigenous values by supporting new parents within their communities. By integrating evidence-based practices with community-centered approaches, these programs offer a blend of support and cultural preservation that meets the unique needs of Native families. For Hamm, these programs are more than just resources—they’re vital connections to tradition and community.
Rebuilding Trust with Native Communities
Hamm also acknowledged the mistrust many Native communities feel toward federal agencies due to past injustices. ACF aims to rebuild this trust through consultations, open feedback, and transparent actions. She explained that good-faith efforts and consistent listening are essential to honor the nation-to-nation relationship between the U.S. government and Tribal nations.
NICCA’s Perspective on Expanding Tribal Early Childhood Program Resources
At NICCA, we strongly support ACF’s message. Expanding Tribal early childhood resources is essential to creating environments where Native children can grow with a strong foundation in their heritage and cultural identity. These programs not only support family resilience but also foster economic stability and provide pathways for our children to thrive within their communities.
For the full interview with Katie Hamm, visit The Imprint here.