In 2020, as the global pandemic intensified the digital divide in the United States, the federal government committed to address this pressing issue.
The proposed solution included substantial technology subsidies and increased funding for internet access, particularly high-speed broadband initiatives. This funding aimed to repair the longstanding gaps in fiber optic infrastructure, which have historically left many Indigenous communities without internet access.
Despite this historic investment intended to bolster internet infrastructure, disparities remain. Recent census data shows that broadband subscription rates for American Indian and Alaska Native households on tribal lands are only 71 percent, significantly lower than the national average of 90 percent.
Access to high-speed internet is increasingly recognized as a crucial social determinant of health, as well as a vital component for educational advancement, economic growth, and engagement in modern life.
Internet Connectivity in 2024
The American Indian Policy Institute reports that 18 percent of residents on tribal reservations lack internet access, while approximately 33 percent rely solely on smartphones for connectivity. Around 31 percent of those surveyed experience unreliable internet connections.
A study conducted in July 2023 indicates that households in tribal areas have internet access rates that are 21 percentage points lower than those in nearby non-tribal regions. In addition, even when connected, download speeds in these tribal areas are roughly 75 percent slower. The cost of basic internet services in these regions is also significantly higher, presenting further disparities in access and quality of service.
As dependency on the internet increases, Indigenous communities are at a considerable disadvantage, which impacts access to essential resources and economic assistance programs.
The challenges of inadequate internet access in Indigenous areas are complex and require strategic solutions. While some private companies are taking initiatives to improve connectivity, systemic issues related to market demands and complicated negotiations with tribal and federal entities hinder progress.
Broadband Funding for 2025
A significant step toward improvement is the need to eliminate financial barriers to better internet services in rural areas.
Despite a surge of attention and funding initiatives over the years, the amount allocated specifically for tribal lands remains disproportionately low compared to the total funding for rural broadband expansion. It took multiple policy actions before meaningful funding became available for these communities.
In Dec. 2021, the U.S. government initiated the Affordability Connectivity Program to allocate substantial resources for internet subsidies, especially for tribal households. This was part of the broader Internet for All initiative enacted through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program marked a significant milestone, offering $3 billion dedicated to broadband infrastructure and expansion projects on tribal lands, complemented by additional funding rounds in subsequent years.
With a broader $42 billion plan aimed at enhancing national broadband access in 2023, the government is also investing in completing crucial connections in rural communities.
Challenges Amid Funding Opportunities
Despite billions in allocated funding, disconnection rates in Indigenous communities persist. Many projects take years to set up, often facing numerous bureaucratic hurdles such as acquiring necessary easements and rights of way.
The complexity of these initiatives often leads to public misconception about the speed of project delivery, as the groundwork sometimes takes much longer than anticipated, delaying the benefits of funding.
While some private sector players endeavor to provide exceptional connectivity solutions, expedited timelines for construction still face challenges, exacerbated by changes in administrative policies and fluctuating funding programs.
Earlier this year, FCC updated its broadband speed requirements to better identify areas lacking sufficient internet services, particularly low-income and rural communities. However, uncertainty persists surrounding the future of funding streams, especially under potential changes in federal leadership.
Private Sector Initiatives and Digital Sovereignty
As funding concerns mount, there are diverging views among tribal leaders about the role of private telecommunications companies in bridging the digital divide. While some tribes are keen on establishing self-sufficient internet services, others strategically partner with established telecom providers.
Notably, a partnership has emerged between AT&T and the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians to enhance broadband access for tribal citizens. This project aims to connect underserved residents with high-speed internet, emphasizing the urgency of addressing technological disparities in rural areas.
In contrast, leaders like Matthew Rantanen advocate for completely Indigenous-owned internet services, fostering greater control over digital infrastructure within tribal lands.
The establishment of resources such as the Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty aims to support tribal nations in defining and asserting their digital autonomy, including the management of their data and telecommunication networks.
In addressing the challenges of connectivity, tribal leaders are urged to maintain control of their digital landscapes, ensuring that the benefits of improved infrastructure are aligned with the sovereignty and self-determination of Indigenous communities.
