A Grist Investigation: How Public Universities Profit from Stolen Indigenous Land
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and conversation around the issue of stolen Indigenous land in the United States. This land, which was taken from Native American tribes through violent and unjust means, continues to be a source of profit for many industries. And unfortunately, it has now been revealed that some of the most prestigious public universities in the country are also benefiting from this exploitation.
A recent investigation by Grist has uncovered that 14 public universities across the US are profiting from extractive industries on stolen Indigenous land. These industries, which include oil and gas, mining, and logging, have been allowed to operate on land that was taken from Native American tribes without their consent or fair compensation. And while these universities may claim to be institutions of higher learning and progress, their actions speak otherwise.
The investigation found that these universities have been receiving millions of dollars in royalties and lease payments from these industries, all while turning a blind eye to the ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous communities. For example, the University of Oklahoma has received over $1.5 million in royalties from oil and gas companies operating on land that was once owned by the Cherokee Nation. Similarly, the University of Wyoming has received over $14 million in lease payments from coal companies operating on land that was taken from the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes.
This revelation is deeply troubling, as it not only highlights the ongoing exploitation of Indigenous land and resources, but also the complicity of these universities in perpetuating these injustices. As institutions that are meant to educate and promote progress, they are instead profiting from the very systems that have oppressed Native American communities for centuries.
Furthermore, this issue goes beyond just financial gain. The extractive industries operating on stolen Indigenous land have also been responsible for environmental degradation and the destruction of sacred sites. For example, the University of Arizona has been receiving millions of dollars in royalties from copper mining on land that was taken from the San Carlos Apache tribe. This mining has not only polluted the surrounding environment, but it has also destroyed a sacred site known as Oak Flat, which is of great cultural significance to the Apache people.
It is clear that these universities have a moral and ethical responsibility to address this issue and take action to rectify the harm that has been done. And while some universities, such as the University of California, have taken steps to divest from these industries, the majority have yet to do so. This is not only a failure on their part, but it also goes against the values of education and progress that they claim to uphold.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. There are also examples of universities that have taken a different approach and have actively worked towards reconciliation with Indigenous communities. The University of Montana, for instance, has partnered with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to create a scholarship program for Native American students. This is just one example of how universities can use their resources and influence to support Indigenous communities and promote justice.
It’s time for these 14 public universities to follow suit and take meaningful action towards addressing the issue of stolen Indigenous land. This can include divesting from extractive industries, partnering with Indigenous communities, and acknowledging the harm that has been done. As institutions of higher learning, they have a unique opportunity to lead by example and promote positive change.
In conclusion, the Grist investigation has shed light on a disturbing reality – that some of the most prestigious public universities in the US are profiting from stolen Indigenous land. This is not only a violation of human rights, but it also goes against the values of education and progress. It’s time for these universities to take responsibility for their actions and work towards reconciliation with Indigenous communities. Only then can we truly move towards a more just and equitable society.
