The South Dakota Education Equity Coalition (SDEEC) strongly opposes Kristi Noem’s recent comments about Native education, calling them disparaging and misrepresentative. Noem’s statement that “their kids don’t have any hope. They don’t have parents who show up and help them,” has been criticized by SDEEC for perpetuating harmful stereotypes and neglecting the actual needs and strengths of Indigenous families and communities.
Sarah White, Executive Director of SDEEC, stated that such remarks validate the ongoing weaponization of Indigenous education by political leaders, highlighting the harm caused by the governor’s administration in South Dakota.
Dr. Sherry Johnson, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribal Education Director, criticized the lack of improvement in Native American education in South Dakota, pointing out issues with the curriculum and the disregard for input from tribes and stakeholders in the recent Social Studies Standards debacle.
The coalition sees Noem’s remarks as part of a concerning trend that began with her dismantling of programs promoting educational equity. However, they note that other states have successfully established respectful partnerships with tribal governments, leading to enhanced educational opportunities for Indigenous students.
SDEEC believes that South Dakota has the potential to transform its approach and build a foundation of mutual respect and cooperation with its Native communities, moving towards a future where education equity is a reality for all.