Putting Tribal Sovereignty
In the summer of 2024, the Chickasaw and Cherokee Nations led impactful implementations of the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) Program, a federal nutrition program designed to reduce food insecurity among children during the summer months when school meals are unavailable. In partnership with the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI) developed Summer EBT in Indian Country: A Report on Tribal Success, Barriers, and Best Practices. This report provides an overview of how the program works, highlighting both successes in Tribal administration of Summer EBT and the systemic challenges that persist in Indian Country.
Addressing Food Insecurity in Indian Country
Food insecurity remains disproportionately high in Native American communities due to a combination of historical, geographic, and economic factors. Summer EBT plays a critical role in bridging the nutrition gap for children by providing families with funds to purchase food during the summer break. The Chickasaw and Cherokee Nations demonstrated how Tribal governments can effectively tailor federal programs to meet the unique needs of their citizens.
Legal and Policy Landscape
This report explores the complex legal framework surrounding Tribal participation in federal nutrition programs. While recent policy shifts have opened doors for more direct Tribal administration, barriers remain—particularly around data sharing, administrative matching requirements, and navigating Tribal-state relationships. The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI), housed at the University of Arkansas School of Law, has been instrumental in analyzing these legal dynamics and policies that support Tribal sovereignty in food systems.
Chickasaw Nation Case Study
The Chickasaw Nation shared lessons learned from its implementation of Summer EBT. While the nation encountered hurdles in implementing Summer EBT, it was successful in navigating those challenges and ultimately in feeding eligible children throughout their service area. The Chickasaw Nation, which has a long-standing history of administering nutrition programs, identified several best practices for this program.
The Role of IFAI
The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative (IFAI) provides critical legal and policy analysis and support for Tribes. IFAI’s expertise supports Tribes in navigating federal nutrition programs and designing food systems that reflect each individual Tribe’s values and governance.
Conclusion
The 2024 Summer EBT efforts by the Chickasaw and Cherokee Nations demonstrated the power of Tribal leadership in addressing food insecurity. With policy reforms that center Tribal sovereignty, Summer EBT can become a cornerstone of food security in Indian Country.