Restoration Magazine

First Nations Women’s Alliance (FNWA) took a significant step by applying for a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) aimed at Tribal coalitions for rape prevention and education. This initiative, although challenging due to the unfamiliar application format of the CDC compared to the Department of Justice (DOJ) with which we are more familiar, reflects Tribal advocates’ deep commitment to addressing the issue of sexual violence in Indian Country. FNWA and the Minnesota Indian Women’s Sexual Assault Coalition (MIWSAC) were the only two Tribal Coalitions to apply for the first round, highlighting the need for more widespread engagement in such funding opportunities.

FNWA’s first project abstract underscored the urgent need to understand the extent of sexual violence within communities and Tribes, which remains largely undefined despite national documentation. FNWA is committed to developing solutions rooted in Indigenous cultures, which can foster the growth of healthy individuals through culturally appropriate prevention strategies. This approach is not only about preventing violence but nurturing complete human beings by addressing physical and mental health disparities and ensuring access to quality services. FNWA has expanded our #beagoodrelative hashtag campaign through this funding opportunity.

The initial Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) supported a capacity assessment for FNWA, revealing the stark disparities between Tribal and state programs. As Executive Director of FNWA, I have been a vocal advocate for parity at various decision-making tables. The second round of grants proved disappointing, as state coalitions did not have to compete and received higher funding rates than those offered to Tribal Coalitions. This situation led FNWA and the 20 Tribal Coalitions across the country to communicate to the CDC our reluctance to compete against other Tribal entities, emphasizing the need for solidarity rather than competition in addressing such critical issues. FNWA’s partnership with the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, which also received the CDC RPE funding, and the state coalition has been very collaborative and fruitful. Through this partnership, FNWA developed our “Medicine In Action” wheel (pictured here). FNWA has a group of changemakers who drive this work. Find more information about FNWA and our prevention strategies at www.nativewoman.org.

Despite these challenges, FNWA’s first application process took a positive turn when the CDC announced that the funding would be higher than expected, necessitating a revised budget submission. This development enhanced FNWA’s capacity to implement and evaluate comprehensive strategies for sexual violence prevention, as outlined in the NOFO. The ultimate goal of the CDC’s funding opportunity is to advance health equity through prevention efforts. It aims to empower up to 10 Tribal Sexual Assault Coalitions to implement evidence-informed and Indigenous knowledge-informed strategies that address Indigenous Determinants of Health (IDOH) across Indian Country.

FNWA’s experience reflects the complexities and potential opportunities within the grant application process for Tribal Coalitions. It underscores the importance of aligning funding opportunities with the needs and values of Indigenous communities, ensuring equitable access to resources, and fostering a collaborative rather than competitive approach to addressing the pervasive issue of sexual violence in Indian Country.