The Akwesasne Mohawk Nation in northern New York has a rich history of indigenous artisans, including Kelly Back who handcrafts traditional beaded items that are worn at ceremonies by tribe members. Back’s business grew exponentially after utilizing social media to reach a wider audience, allowing her to make a sustainable income from her artwork. However, the impending end of the US Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) threatens the livelihoods of indigenous creators like Back, as the program is set to run out of funds with no plan for reauthorization in Congress.
The termination of the ACP will have a significant impact on over 23 million low-income US households, including many indigenous communities who rely on the program for affordable internet access. Indigenous communities, often located in remote areas with infrastructural challenges, stand to be disproportionately affected by the loss of the ACP. While some lawmakers are proposing legislation to renew the program, challenges remain in securing additional funding, with concerns that House Speaker Mike Johnson may block efforts to provide further support.
Tribal households, disproportionately impacted by the end of the ACP, face potential increases in their internet bills by up to $900 a year. Indigenous communities, such as the Navajo Nation, have been able to preserve and revitalize their culture through programs enabled by internet access. The ACP has been instrumental in supporting education, work opportunities, and small businesses for tribal members, enhancing cultural preservation efforts and fostering community engagement.
As the ACP comes to an end, indigenous communities are left grappling with the uncertainty of their internet access and the repercussions on their economic stability and cultural preservation efforts. Tribal governments are exploring the possibility of developing their own programs, but the financial burden may be substantial. The lack of trust in the US government to fulfill its promises to tribal communities adds to the concerns regarding the future of internet access for indigenous households.
The demise of the ACP serves as a reminder of the historical broken promises by the US government towards tribal communities, further straining the relationship and trust between indigenous groups and the government. The uncertainty and potential loss of internet access for indigenous households highlight the precarious situation facing these communities, with individuals like Kelly Back expressing skepticism about future government assistance. The impact of the ACP’s end extends beyond financial concerns, affecting cultural preservation programs and community connectivity for indigenous populations across the country.
