Problems

There are 326 federally recognized reservations, and a population of 6.79 million Native Americans (according to the US Census Bureau) representing 2.09% of the nation's total population. Many Native Americans are disconnected from each other, their cultural traditions, and values; while 22% are living on reservations, the balance of the population resides in metropolitan (60%), and rural (18%) areas. Native Americans are under-recognized in US political positions, society, and within visual media.

The key issues that affect the Native American population are racial abuse and societal discrimination; incorrect and disrespectful depiction of the tribes in the arts; mental, spiritual, and physical violence; lack of opportunities for quality healthcare, employment, lifestyle necessities, and education. The specifically identified challenges for our people include:

• Impoverishment and unemployment

• Violence against women and children

• lack of high-quality education

• Poor quality of housing

• Diminishing native language

• Drug and alcohol addiction

• Inadequate health care