University of Alaska Fairbanks Chancellor Mike Sfraga said the funding cuts “will have a substantial and negative impact on a large number of Alaskans, including our Alaska Native students.”

The new policy is one of several in response to a state law that aims to eliminate any mention of diversity, equity and inclusion at public universities.

Federal funding cuts could put tribal colleges and universities like Tohono O’odham Community College in southern Arizona at risk of closing.

Indigenous leaders warn higher education institutions will close if the funding-slashing 2026 budget proposal passes

Institutions across the U.S. returned more than 10,300 Native American ancestors to tribes in 2024, making it the third-biggest year for repatriation under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.