50 Years of Advancing the Health of American Indians and Alaska Natives

50 years ago, Tribal leaders created NIHB to ensure Tribal perspectives and priorities were heard and considered as the nation developed federal health policy. NIHB continues that work today, fighting for our People’s healthcare, for needed health system funding, and for public health resources. We work on legislation, regulations, policies and programs that impact Tribal health while we communicate the latest information to Indian Country. Ever protecting Tribal Sovereignty and advancing the Trust Responsibility, NIHB is your healthcare warrior in the Nation’s Capital.

The coronavirus pandemic laid bare the systemic inequities in Indian Country – like access to quality healthcare, clean water, and lack of emergency preparedness. The chronic underfunding of the Indian health system led to a disproportionate impact on Native communities. Tribal communities were resilient and there were many successes in models for vaccinating Tribal citizens, virtual behavioral health programs and care for elders. With the Biden administration declaring a special focus on health equity – it is time to build on that momentum and historic funding to bring health equity to Indian Country. The best solutions will be those led and informed by Tribal communities, Native academics, and Tribal organizations. NIHB is launching its health equity initiative with the goal to lift up Indigenous knowledge and create solutions that will impact the next Seven Generations.

2022 is the 50th Anniversary of NIHB. We are planning our work for the weeks, months and next 50 years ahead, but we cannot do this work without you! Join us in making an impact in Indian Country. Your donation will support our work as we continue to respond to COVID-19 in Tribal communities. We will advocate for increased funding for Tribal health, permanent re-authorization of the Special Diabetes Program for Indians, advanced appropriations for the Indian Health Service and resources to improve the public health infrastructure of Indian Country, along with other Tribal priorities. We will be launching our health equity initiative to ensure improved health for American Indians and Alaska Natives.