In a significant stride towards uplifting and amplifying the voices and perspectives of Indigenous communities, Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) recently released a preview of the highly anticipated Tribal Nations Listening Session Report.  

The Tribal Nations Listening Session Report represents a groundbreaking initiative led by Native Americans in Philanthropy, a national organization committed to advancing philanthropic practices that support and empower Indigenous communities. Recognizing the need for increased collaboration, NAP initiated a series of listening sessions with tribal nations, creating a platform for Native American leaders to voice their concerns, share experiences, and contribute to shaping philanthropic efforts. 

This report preview reflects the culmination of extensive engagement and dialogue with Tribal leaders, Tribal government officials, Native non-profit organizational leaders, Indigenous community organizations, and Elders from across what is now known as the United States. As the philanthropic sector endeavors to address historical disparities and foster more equitable partnerships, this report provides broad categories that Tribal leaders and their representatives have identified as an important way for philanthropy to engage with Native American and Indigenous communities. 

It’s important to note that this Report Preview and its initial findings are only the beginning of this work. In 2024, we’ll be releasing an updated version of the full Tribal Nations Listening Session Report to inform Native and Indigenous communities, funders, and the larger philanthropic sector on the funding priorities identified both nationally and regionally. We are currently engaged in multiple outreach efforts to ensure that this survey is representative of current realities and priorities of Indigenous peoples. 

However, we hope that in sharing the beginnings of this crucial research, we can prompt discussion and action in the necessary spaces to further strengthen the pathways to equitable and effective philanthropy for Native communities with the following identified funding priorities: 

  • Education
  • Language, Culture, and Arts
  • Economic and Workforce Development
  • Environmental Stewardship
  • Housing

Read the full article about funding priorities for Tribal communities at Native Americans in Philanthropy.