On May 29, 2026, Iowa officials announced a new partnership with local tribes to address the needs of the state's Indigenous populations. The collaboration comes as a response to growing concerns about the disparities faced by Native communities in accessing healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.The joint effort includes representatives from the Meskwaki Tribe, the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa, and the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. Together, they will work with state agencies to develop culturally competent programs and services that better serve the needs of Indigenous populations in Iowa.One of the key areas of focus for the partnership is healthcare access. Native Americans in Iowa face higher rates of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease compared to the general population. By working together, the tribes and state officials hope to improve access to quality healthcare services for Native communities and address the underlying social determinants of health that contribute to these disparities.In addition to healthcare, the collaboration will also address education and economic opportunities for Native populations. Indigenous youth in Iowa experience lower high school graduation rates and higher rates of unemployment compared to their non-Native peers. Through targeted initiatives and resources, the partnership aims to provide support and opportunities for Native youth to succeed in school and in the workforce.Iowa Governor, Sarah Thompson, expressed her commitment to working with the tribes to address these pressing issues. "It is essential that we listen to and involve Indigenous voices in the decision-making process to ensure that our policies and programs are equitable and inclusive," she stated. "I am grateful for the partnership of the tribes in this important work."Members of the Meskwaki Tribe, the Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa, and the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska have also expressed their support for the collaboration. They hope that this partnership will lead to positive changes for Native populations in Iowa and create a more equitable and just society for all.Overall, the new partnership between Iowa officials and local tribes represents a significant step towards addressing the needs of Indigenous populations in the state. By working together, they hope to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for Native communities to thrive.
