Education equity group challenges Noem’s disparaging remarks on Native education, urges change in SD policies
The South Dakota Education Equity Coalition (SDEEC) stands in strong opposition to Gov. Noem’s recent disparaging remarks about Native education.
“Their kids don’t have any hope,” Noem said. “They don’t have parents who show up and help them.” That’s a comment that starkly misrepresents the realities of Native communities and their unwavering commitment to the education and well-being of their children.
Moments like this validate the ongoing weaponization of Indigenous education by political leaders such as Gov. Noem, further underscoring the harm that her tribally apathetic administration perpetuates in South Dakota. This statement highlights the coalition’s frustration with the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and the neglect of the actual needs and strengths of Indigenous families and communities.
Dr. Sherry Johnson, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribal education director, responded to the governor’s comments.
“What has really been done to improve the education of Native American children in South Dakota? The curriculum does not reflect the students’ Tribal history, culture, and language, which does not contribute to strengthening students’ cultural identities,” Johnson said. “Neither does the social studies standards that were written by retired Hillsdale College professor William Morrisey for $200,000. The recent social studies standards debacle in which approximately 80% of the comments that were submitted by Tribes, teachers, education organizations and other stakeholders were opposed to the social studies standards, and yet a seven-member committee selected by the governor can disregard what the people of South Dakota say. Where is the democracy and the voice of the people of South Dakota in that matter?
“The specificity of the Native American Tribes that occupied this area is no longer in the standards. The systematic erasure of the Dakota, Lakota, and Nakota continues here in South Dakota in our education system.”
This pattern of remarks from Gov. Noem is not isolated but part of a concerning trend that began with her first executive order in office, which dismantled vital programs aimed at promoting educational equity, directly impacting the Native community.
This issue is not unique to South Dakota; however, it’s noteworthy that other states have successfully established strong, respectful partnerships with Tribal governments, leading to enhanced educational opportunities for Indigenous students. These collaborations have shown that when states and Tribes work together, respecting sovereignty and cultural heritage, they can create educational environments that uplift all students.
Such positive models demonstrate the potential for South Dakota to transform its approach and build a foundation of mutual respect and cooperation with its Native communities. By learning from the examples of other states, South Dakota has the opportunity to reimagine its relationship with Indigenous peoples, moving towards a future where education equity is a reality for all.
SDEEC remains unwavering in its mission, refusing to be distracted by Gov. Noem’s divisive comments. The coalition reiterates its dedication to honoring and uplifting the resilience and strength of Native communities through advocacy and action.
Sarah White is the founder and executive director of the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition (SDEEC). White transitioned into this role as a direct result of her work in serving as the facilitator for SDEEC during the first two years of its informal stages of development. She has eight years of experience working and advocating for Title VI Indian Education Programs, working at Rapid City Area Schools and at Omaha Public Schools. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a master’s of education degree from Creighton University, and a PK-12 administrator endorsement from the University of South Dakota.
