NCUIH Honors Senator Tina Smith for Her Leadership and Legacy in Urban Indian Health

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 20, 2026)– The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented the Urban Indian Health Champion Award to Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) during NCUIH’s 2026 Annual Conference.

For years, Senator Smith has shown up for urban Indian health in ways that matter. In 2020, she co-introduced the bipartisan Coverage for Urban Indian Health Providers Act, which extended Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) coverage to Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs), a concrete win for UIOs and the communities they serve. That victory is just one example of the impactful change Senator Smith has worked to deliver for Indian Country.

From Left to Right: Dr. Patrick Rock CEO Indian Health Board of Minneapolis (IHB) (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe), Senator Tina Smith, Joni Buffalohead, Chairwoman (Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate), Mike Goze, IHB Board member (Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin)

Year after year, Senator Smith has also led the Senate Dear Colleague letter to the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, which requested the maximum funding for urban Indian health and advance appropriations for the Indian Health Service. It is a consistent, reliable act of leadership that UIOs across the country depend on.

As Senator Smith prepares to conclude her Senate service at the end of her term, this award also celebrates her legacy. Over the course of her tenure, she has helped transform how Congress thinks about urban Indian health. We are deeply grateful for everything she has done for urban Indian communities and honored to recognize her with this award.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Honors Pfizer, Ishkode Fund, and Urban Indian Health Leaders

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 11, 2026) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented awards to partner organizations and Urban Indian Organization (UIO) leadership and staff for their work to advance urban Native health during our 2026 Annual Conference. NCUIH thanks the awardees for their dedication to urban Native health and their efforts to ensure that all Native people have access to high-quality health care services, no matter where they live.

Native Health Partnership Excellence Award: Presented to Pfizer and Accepted by Melissa Bishop-Murphy

Native Health Partnership Excellence Award: Presented to Pfizer and Accepted by Melissa Bishop-Murphy

The Native Health Partnership Excellence Award recognizes an individual or organization that has shown exceptional dedication and effectiveness in partnering with urban Native communities to improve health care outcomes. This year’s award was presented to Pfizer.

Over the past four years, Pfizer has invested more than $800,000 in NCUIH’s work, demonstrating a sustained and meaningful commitment to improving health outcomes for urban Native people. Pfizer’s partnership has helped advance NCUIH’s mission to ensure that American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas have access to high quality, culturally grounded care.

Native Health Rising Ally Award: Presented to Ishkode Fund (Accepted by Kate Trujillo, Senior Programs Director)

Native Health Rising Ally Award: Presented to Ishkode Fund (Accepted by Kate Trujillo, Senior Programs Director)

The Native Health Rising Ally Award honors an emerging leader or organization who has demonstrated outstanding support, advocacy, and allyship in advancing urban Native American health initiatives. This year’s award was presented to the Ishkode Fund, accepted by Senior Programs Director Kate Trujillo.

The Ishkode Fund has demonstrated a growing and genuine commitment to health equity and allyship with Urban Indian Organizations. NCUIH is proud to recognize Ishkode’s investment in Native communities and looks forward to continuing to build this important partnership in the years ahead.

The Distinguished Service Award: Presented to Walter Murillo (Choctaw), Outgoing NCUIH Board President and CEO of Native Health

The Distinguished Service Award: Presented to Walter Murillo (Choctaw), Outgoing NCUIH Board President and CEO of Native Health

The Distinguished Service Award honors exceptional dedication and sustained commitment to NCUIH and to Native communities across the country. It recognizes individuals whose leadership, advocacy, and service have strengthened urban Indian health, advanced meaningful change, and helped elevate the voices and needs of Native people. This year’s award was presented to Walter Murillo (Choctaw), outgoing NCUIH Board President and Chief Executive Officer of Native Health in Phoenix, Arizona.

Walter’s leadership has embodied the compassion, integrity, and deep sense of responsibility to community that this award was created to honor. His contributions leave a lasting mark on NCUIH’s mission and reflect the spirit of service and solidarity that continues to move the organization forward.

Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award: Presented to LivA’ndrea Knoki, Board of Directors President, Native Americans for Community Action

Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award: Presented to LivA’ndrea Knoki, Board of Directors President, Native Americans for Community Action

The Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award celebrates an individual within an Urban Indian Organization who has demonstrated visionary leadership and innovation in addressing challenges and opportunities within urban Native communities. This year’s award was presented to LivA’ndrea Knoki, Board of Directors President of Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) in Flagstaff, Arizona.

As NACA’s first woman Board President, LivA’ndrea has served in this role for seven years, advancing the organization’s mission by strengthening governance, expanding strategic partnerships, and centering culturally grounded approaches in urban Indigenous health. She has helped reimagine access to care beyond traditional clinic-based models and has advanced culturally rooted practices — including traditional healing, conscious language, and ceremonial protocol — within urban systems. Her leadership has helped operationally define “Indigenous Values” to support services for youth, elders, LGBTQ2S+ relatives, and unhoused relatives, while reinforcing that Urban Indigenous Health requires models distinct from rural or reservation-based systems.

Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award: Presented to Michael Duran, Director of Counseling, Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley

Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award: Presented to Michael Duran, Director of Counseling, Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley

The Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award recognizes a staff member of an Indian Health Service-funded Urban Indian Organization who demonstrates exceptional dedication, leadership, and service in advancing the organization’s mission and goals. This year’s award was presented to Michael Duran, Director of Counseling at the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley.

Michael has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing culturally grounded care, ensuring that Traditional Healing is not only recognized but integrated as a vital component of community wellness. His work has moved beyond theory to create tangible, positive outcomes for those he serves, making him an exceptional example of the dedication that drives urban Native health forward.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Honors Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Chellie Pingree with Urban Indian Health Champion Award

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 29, 2026) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented the Urban Indian Health Champion Award to Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04), Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, and Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, during NCUIH’s 2026 Annual Conference.

Chairman Cole and Ranking Member Pingree helped secure the continuation of critical HHS Native health set-asides and grants beyond IHS, including SAMHSA’s Native Connections and CDC’s Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country. These programs are integral to the holistic health care of Native communities and to fulfilling the federal trust responsibility.

Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04), Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations

An enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation, Chairman Cole has been a steadfast advocate for Indian Country throughout his career, consistently using his position at the top of the House Appropriations Committee to ensure those obligations are met.

Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04), Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations

“We count on [your] Indian health care centers to discharge the federal trust responsibility in terms of health care, and you do a magnificent job of helping our folks, particularly in challenging moments in time.”

— Rep. Tom Cole, Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations

Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Ranking Member, House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

Rep. Pingree has been a consistent and powerful voice for Native health on the subcommittee that directly oversees IHS funding, and a driving force in maintaining bipartisan commitment to upholding treaty and trust obligations — even in difficult budget years.

“It is our deep responsibility to uphold our treaty and trust obligations, and we have to make sure we do that every year.”

— Rep. Chellie Pingree, Ranking Member, House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

The award recognizes members of Congress who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and leadership in advocating for issues vital to Native communities. Under their leadership, Congress enacted FY 2026 appropriations including $95.42 million for Urban Indian Health — a $5 million increase over FY 2025.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

 

NCUIH Honors HHS Senior Advisor Mark Cruz with Excellence in Public Service Award

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 29, 2026) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented the Excellence in Public Service to Advance Native Health Award to Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services, during NCUIH’s 2026 Annual Conference.

Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary, HHS and and Walter Murillo, CEO of NATIVE HEALTH, and NCUIH Vice-President

Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary, HHS and and Walter Murillo, CEO of NATIVE HEALTH, and NCUIH Vice-President

“My commitment to you all is to always engage, to always show up.”

— Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary, HHS, April 28, 2026

The Excellence in Public Service to Advance Native Health Award recognizes a federal public servant whose work has meaningfully advanced health care access for Native people, including those living in urban areas. Mark Cruz was appointed in June 2025 as the first-ever Senior Advisor to the HHS Secretary, a position created to ensure Native health priorities are represented at the highest levels of the Department. Since taking office, Mark has delivered — proposing advanced appropriations for IHS in the President’s FY 2027 budget request and helping drive Secretary Kennedy’s $1 billion commitment to IHS construction. He has also logged thousands of miles visiting Urban Indian Organizations across the country — a reflection of his belief that showing up is part of the job. NCUIH is grateful for his partnership and dedication to advancing Native health.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

PRESS RELEASE: New Government Prescription Program Threatens Native Health Access, Exemption Needed for Indian Health Care Providers

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 17, 2025) – On December 8, 2025, the NCUIH sent a letter to HRSA Administrator, Thomas J. Engels, to request an exemption for UIOs and Indian Health Care Providers from the 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program. This request is consistent with a Tribal request that has been made by both the HHS Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC) and the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) Tribal Technical Advisory Group (TTAG).

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) calls on the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to exempt Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) and Indian Health Care Providers from HRSA’s 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program. This urgent request is to prevent the administrative and financial burden on UIOs and Indian Health Care Providers, and barriers to access to vital medications for American Indian and Alaska Native patients.

The Impact

Under the HRSA 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program, scheduled to begin January 1, 2026, covered entities will no longer receive 340B discounts at the point of purchase. Instead, entities must pay full Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) upfront for 10 select drugs and later submit claims to receive manufacturer rebates. Medications used to treat diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune conditions will increase substantially in cost for UIOs, which do not have the reserves to cover these costs while awaiting uncertain rebate payments.

25 out of the 41 UIOs across the country currently participate in the 340B program. UIOs that participate in the 340B program often have limited cash reserves and narrow operating margins, relying on 340B savings to support pharmacy services and access to vital medications for their American Indian and Alaska Native patients. For UIOs and Indian Health Care Providers, this model creates an immediate risk that threatens patient access to care.

Stats

The rebate model shifts financial risk from manufacturers to health care providers, creating new financial and operational challenges for UIOs:

  • Preliminary UIO feedback indicates that upfront drug purchasing costs range from $340,000 to $2.4 million annually for some UIOs that participate in the 340B program. Even temporary delays in rebate payments may significantly strain UIO operating budgets.
  • The pilot introduces new requirements for rebate claim submission, tracking, and reporting. These changes may require additional staffing, IT system capacity, and administrative resources.
  • Increased financial and operational pressures may affect the sustainability of UIO pharmacy operations and limit the ability to stock or dispense high-cost medications, jeopardizing access to medications for American Indian and Alaska Native patients.

Resources

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

Press Release: NCUIH Launches RSV Vaccine Toolkit to Support RSV Prevention in Native Communities

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 22, 2025)– NCUIH is proud to share the launch of a new RSV Toolkit, developed to support health care providers in protecting Native communities from RSV.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious illness in infants, young children, and older adults. RSV is highly contagious and can harm elders and babies. American Indian and Alaska Native children experience disproportionately higher rates of RSV-related hospitalization and ICU admission when compared to other U.S. infants.

“RSV can cause serious respiratory illness in infants and young children, with Native children facing even higher risks. As a pediatric nurse, I’ve cared for too many babies suffering from severe RSV and witnessed the heavy toll it takes on families. At the time, there were no protection options available for babies, and it often left me feeling helpless. Today, I’m grateful to help raise awareness about RSV and share the ways we can now protect our future knowledge keepers and storytellers.”
– Alyssa Smith-Longee (Assiniboine/Sioux – Fort Peck), NCUIH Public Health Program Manager

Health care providers can help protect Native communities!

The toolkit features 20 graphics—including both real-life photos and storyteller-inspired illustrations—paired with ready-to-use social media posts. Together, we can raise awareness about RSV prevention and highlight the power of community care.

We encourage you to share the toolkit on your channels using #NCUIH and tag us to help us amplify these important messages.

Access the toolkit at ncuih.org/RSV and join us in protecting our youngest and most vulnerable relatives this RSV season.

View Toolkit
About the Storyteller Design

These storyteller illustrations draw inspiration from Pueblo clay sculptures with roots that extend deep into generations of tradition. The modern storyteller figurine was first created in 1964 by Helen Cordero of Cochiti Pueblo, who gave visual life to the oral practice of passing down lessons, values, history, and ways of life. Today, storyteller figurines remain among the most cherished forms of clay art, with artists shaping their storytellers to reflect diverse traditions and beliefs. The open mouth of each figurine represents the act of sharing stories with the children gathered around it. This campaign continues that legacy, raising awareness about RSV to protect our most vulnerable, including babies and young children, and safeguarding the next generation of storytellers and knowledge keepers.

Social Media Copy and Graphics

8 different graphics for social media are available, including illustrated and photo versions.

   

   

View Social Media Copy and Download Graphics
Newsletter Copy and Graphics

We have drafted text copy for your newsletters and included illustrated and photo versions of graphics as well.

View Newsletter Copy and Download Graphics
Posters

Download and printable posters are available with 4 different illustrations.

Download Posters

Native Health Protection Network

We’re uniting health professionals who are dedicated to protecting Native families through strong immunization practices and culturally grounded care.

The Native Health Protection Network is a new circle for peer learning, sharing strategies, and strengthening vaccine confidence. This network will connect members to timely updates and resources designed to support vaccine readiness. Members can expect to receive email updates from NCUIH at least quarterly that will share exclusive insights, any updates to vaccine recommendations, and tailored resources and tools to boost vaccine knowledge. Those wishing to stay up to date with the latest vaccine recommendations are encouraged to sign up.

By signing up, members will receive quarterly email updates with:

  • Tailored communications and educational tools to support your community’s immunization efforts
  • Exclusive insights and the latest vaccine recommendations
  • Reminders of upcoming NCUIH vaccine Community of Learning sessions
Learn More

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

Press Release: NCUIH Commends Bipartisan Effort to Improve Health Outcomes for Urban Native Communities

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 23, 2025)– On July 23, 2025, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) and Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) reintroduced the bipartisan Urban Indian Health Parity Act. This vital provision will help expand access to necessary health services for American Indian and Alaska Native families and children and ensure the federal government better fulfills its trust responsibility.

“We are grateful that Representatives Ruiz and Bacon are once again championing this bipartisan effort. Fulfilling the federal trust responsibility means ensuring all Native people have access to critical resources. With strong support across Indian Country, we urge Congress to act swiftly to pass this important legislation and improve health outcomes for Native communities,” stated Francys Crevier, JD (Algonquin), CEO, National Council of Urban Indian Health

“American Indian and Alaska Native communities deserve more than promises, they deserve action,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25). “While there is broad, bipartisan recognition of the need to improve tribal health care—including statements of support from Secretary Kennedy—we have yet to see a detailed, actionable plan to make that a reality. The Urban Indian Parity Act is a practical, bipartisan step they can take right now to close health care gaps, strengthen the Indian Health Service, and protect Native patients—regardless of where they live.”

“I am pleased to join Dr. Ruiz on this bipartisan legislation to ensure Native Americans living in urban areas have access to quality healthcare,” remarked Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02). “Nebraska is home to approximately 16,000 American Indian and Alaska Natives and this legislation will strengthen our healthcare system by providing Urban Indian Organizations with the resources they need to serve their communities effectively.”

This bill would amend the Social Security Act to set the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) at 100% for services provided to Medicaid beneficiaries at urban Indian organizations (100% FMAP for UIOs). States have received 100% FMAP for services provided to IHS/Medicaid beneficiaries at Indian Health Service and Tribal facilities for decades. Congress has been working toward parity through legislation since 1999. Extending 100% FMAP to UIOs will require the federal government to bear the cost of Medicaid services provided to American Indian and Alaska Native patients no matter which facet of the Indian health system they utilize, as is required by the trust responsibility. Parity for UIOs is essential to enable them to collaborate effectively with states to strengthen the Medicaid program for the 46% of Native patients they serve who are Medicaid beneficiaries.

NCUIH released a report and one pager highlighting the importance of 100% FMAP, which includes case studies of two states, Washington and Montana, that successfully utilized the American Rescue Plan Act’s (ARPA) temporary authorization of 100% FMAP for UIOs to increase funding support for their UIOs. It also provides an extensive history of 100% FMAP in the Indian health care system.

Ruiz, Bacon Press Release

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Commends MacArthur Foundation’s Native Self-Determination Program and Urges Philanthropy to Invest Boldly in Indian Country

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 22, 2025) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) proudly applauds the MacArthur Foundation’s launch of its Native Self-Determination Program—a transformational commitment to Indigenous leadership and community-driven solutions. This announcement comes at a critical moment for Native communities, who are continuing to face compounding public health, economic, and political crises.

“The MacArthur Foundation is setting a powerful precedent for what trust-based, community-led philanthropy should be,” said Francys Crevier (Algonquin), CEO of the National Council of Urban Indian Health. “At a time when Native communities are enduring unprecedented public health underinvestment and ongoing federal divestment, we need courageous, values-driven action from philanthropy. We call on all funders to follow MacArthur’s lead—now is the time to invest in Indian Country like never before. Vast wealth has been built on our lands; now is the moment to reinvest in our people. While the average American life expectancy exceeds 70 years, some of our relatives are still fighting to reach 50. Less than 1% of philanthropic dollars goes to Native organizations. Philanthropy must step up to close this gap in this critical moment—because our lives depend on it.”

The MacArthur Foundation’s program builds upon $109 million in past investments and aims to deepen Indigenous influence across philanthropic practices.

NCUIH has advocated for serious investments in Indian Country as the federal government divests from significant programs. As the premier national organization representing the health needs of over American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas, NCUIH stands ready to partner with MacArthur and other funders interested in advancing Indigenous priorities.

During NCUIH’s Public Health Emergency webinar hosted by Grantmakers In Health (watch here) in November 2024, they emphasized the urgent need for sustained and strategic investment to prevent the unraveling of decades of progress in Native health. “This is not just a crisis—this is an emergency,” Crevier said during the webinar. “Lives are on the line, and philanthropy must act urgently.”

A Call to Action

Philanthropy has a critical role in protecting Native health, restoring community wellness, and sustaining self-determination in the face of historic and ongoing disinvestment. NCUIH urges all funders to match MacArthur’s commitment—to listen, to trust, and to invest deeply in Native communities now. NCUIH stands ready to support all philanthropy in developing solutions that work for Indian Country.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Urges Administration and Congress to Honor Trust Responsibility in FY26 Budget

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 5, 2025)– On May 2, the President released the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget proposal. The FY 2026 proposal serves as a statement of the Administration’s policy and funding priorities. The budget acts primarily as a symbolic blueprint of the President’s vision for the size and scope of the federal government. The final appropriations will be determined through the Congressional budget process.

The President’s funding request overview states that the Administration will “Maintain Support for Tribal Nations”, stating, “the Budget preserves Federal funding for the Indian Health Service and supports core programs at the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education, sustaining the Federal Government’s support for core programs that benefit tribal communities.” It also indicates plans to “streamline other programs for tribal communities, to reduce inefficiencies and eliminate funding for programs and activities found to be ineffective.” The proposal for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) outlines a 26.2% reduction to the overall HHS budget, amounting to $33.3 billion in cuts.

Note: Detailed agency-level budget requests are expected in the coming weeks. As such, the Indian Health Service (IHS) and Urban Indian Health line items have not yet been released. It is unclear if any programs in the Indian Health Services are proposed for elimination due to “inefficiencies”.

The CEO of NCUIH, Francys Crevier, J.D. (Algonquin), stated, “The trust responsibility for Native people extends beyond the Indian Health Service. We call on the Administration to honor its commitment to Native people and reconsider all cuts to programs serving Native communities. We further urge the administration to engage in Tribal consultation in recognition of the legal Nation-to-Nation relationship before undergoing any changes impacting Native people. Congress has long demonstrated bipartisan support for Tribal Nations and Native people, and we call upon our Congressional champions to ensure that the Indian Health Service and programs serving Native people receive the necessary resources to fulfill the trust responsibility.”

NCUIH has also joined the Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty to ensure that the administration and Congress honor the legal trust responsibility for health care for Native people. We stand with Tribal Nations in protecting all trust responsibilities and the Nation-to-Nation relationship. NCUIH opposes any cuts to programs serving Native communities.

NCUIH’s Engagement on FY26

  • On February 28, 2025, NCUIH Board President-Elect, Robyn Sunday-Allen, testified at the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, urging full funding for urban Indian health and the Indian Health System. In her testimony, Robyn Sunday-Allen said, “Historically, disruptions in funding to the Indian health system have resulted in loss of life… Our care is too critical to be paused or reduced.” Ensuring mandatory and full funding for the entire Indian Health System—Tribal facilities, IHS, and UIOs—is essential for saving lives.
  • NCUIH joined the Coalition for Tribal Sovereignty in a letter to Secretary Kennedy requesting that he appeal the OMB proposed cuts to critical Tribal programming.
  • Rep. Leger Fernandez is currently circulating a Dear Colleague letter to the leadership of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, requesting robust funding for Urban Indian Health. The deadline for Congressional members to sign on is May 15.

Next Steps

The administration is expected to release its full Budget in Brief in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the House and Senate Appropriations Committees will craft their respective FY 2026 funding bills. NCUIH will continue to engage with lawmakers to ensure the Indian Health System and all Tribal programs receive the resources they need.

Resources

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Honors Chairman Ron Allen, Governor Stephen Roe Lewis, Robyn Sunday-Allen, Janet Reeves, NORC, CDC Foundation, Adon Vazquez

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NCUIH honored Tribal leaders, Urban Indian Organization leadership and staff, and partner organizations for their work to advance the health of urban Native people. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 23, 2025)– The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented seven awards to Tribal leaders, Urban Indian Organization (UIO) leadership and staff, and partner organizations for their work to advance urban Native health during our 2025 Annual Conference. NCUIH thanks the awardees for their dedication to urban Native health, and their efforts to ensure that all Native people have access to high quality health care services, no matter where they live.

“Big tribe, small tribe, and no matter where our people are, wherever they reside, and often in urban centers, you have a right to health care too. The trust obligation is to Indian country, and no matter where our people are.” He added, “When I’m fighting for Indian Country, I’m fighting for you too.” – Chairman Ron Allen

Tribal Leader Impact Awards

Chairman Ron Allen (Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe) and Governor Stephen Roe Lewis (Gila River Indian Community)

The Tribal Leader Impact Awards were presented to Chairman Ron Allen, Chairman of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and President of the Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium, and Governor Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community. This award recognizes Tribal leaders whose dedication, leadership, and advocacy have directly impacted the health and well-being of Native people across Indian Country, including those in urban areas.

Chairman Allen has worked tirelessly with federal law and policymakers to protect and strengthen Tribal self-determination and improve Native health. Chairman Allen has played a key role in advancing systems that improve access to care for Native people in both Tribal and urban settings, ensuring that Native voices are not only heard, but respected and integrated into federal health policy.

 

 

 

Governor Lewis has championed innovative solutions to improve the health, sovereignty, and well-being of Native communities throughout Arizona. Through strategic advocacy and deep engagement with partners at every level—local, state, and federal, Governor Lewis has been instrumental in reinforcing essential funding streams for Arizona’s UIOs and amplifying the voice of Native populations throughout Arizona, both on Tribal lands in in urban settings.

Governor Stephen Roe Lewis (Gila River Indian Community)

Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award

Robyn Sunday-Allen (Cherokee Nation), CEO of the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic

The Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award was awarded to Robyn Sunday-Allen (Cherokee Nation), CEO of the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic and President-Elect of the NCUIH Board of Directors. This award honors an individual whose leadership and innovation have helped shape the future of Urban Indian health.

Ms. Sunday-Allen leads one of the largest UIOs in the country—serving 24,000 American Indian patients every year, and her exceptional leadership has expanded access to comprehensive health services, including primary care, dental, optometry, and behavioral health to Native people in Oklahoma. Ms. Sunday-Allen’s influence spreads beyond Oklahoma, as a longtime NCUIH board member, Ms. Sunday-Allen has a long track record of elevating the voices of urban Native people and UIOs nationwide.

 

Urban Indian Legacy Award

Janet Reeves, CEO of Nevada Urban Indians, Inc.

The Urban Indian Legacy Award was awarded to Janet Reeves, CEO of Nevada Urban Indians, Inc., who has dedicated her career to uplifting the health and wellness of Native people in urban settings. This award honors individuals who have advanced health care and advocacy, empowered communities, and preserved Indigenous culture along the way. Under her leadership, Nevada Urban Indians Inc. has become a trusted, culturally grounded resource for Native people in Nevada and her work has helped ensure that patients can access care that respects their traditions and meets their needs.

 

 

Native Health Partnership Excellence Award

NORC at the University of Chicago

The Native Health Partnership Excellence Award was awarded to NORC at the University of Chicago. This award recognizes outstanding collaboration by one of NCUIH’s partners to further Native health. Since 2014, NCUIH has proudly partnered with NORC on a growing body of research that uplifts the voices and needs of Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs). NORC’s partnership has supported NCUIH’s efforts in publishing reports on topics ranging from telehealth utilization and expansion to Medicaid Reimbursement for Traditional Healing Services, and turned NCUIH data into action. We are grateful for NORC’s continued collaboration, expertise, and commitment to advancing health care for Native people in urban communities across the country.

Native Health Rising Ally Award

CDC Foundation

The Native Health Rising Ally Award was awarded to the CDC Foundation. This award celebrates an emerging leader or organization outside of Native communities that has demonstrated powerful allyship in advancing Urban Indian health. The CDC Foundation has been a critical ally in addressing public health challenges in Indian Country—especially in urban areas.

 

 

Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award

Adon Vazquez (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from North Carolina), American Indian Health and Family Services (AIHFS)

The Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award was awarded to Adon Vazquez (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians from North Carolina), Program Assistant for the Sacred Bundle Project at American Indian Health and Family Services (AIHFS) in Detroit, MI. This award recognizes a staff member of an Indian Health Service-funded Urban Indian Organization who demonstrates exceptional dedication, leadership, and service. As an integral part of the Sacred Bundle Project, Adon has worked tirelessly to bring not only suicide prevention, but tangible community-based tools to Native communities across Michigan. Adon is an incredible example of how UIOs can have a lasting impact on families and youth in our communities. Adon also served on NCUIH’s inaugural Youth Council.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org, 202-417-7781