Directions: Read the summary, watch the video and then answer the discussion questions.

Summary: The government shutdown has affected Native American tribes who rely on federal funds allocated by treaty rights. For the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians in Wisconsin, funding goes towards services like public safety and elder healthcare. Now the tribe is awaiting more than a million dollars owed by the government. Trump continues to demand a multi-billion taxpayer-funded border wall and Democratic lawmakers have been unwilling to pass budgets that include a wall. With both sides still at a stalemate, the partial government shutdown is the longest in modern history.

Discussion questions:

1) Essential question : How has the government shutdown affected everyday life in America?

2) What do you know about the history of treaties between the federal government and Native American tribes? How could you find out, if you're not sure?

3) As a result of the shutdown, what public services have been affected for the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians in Wisconsin?

Extension activities :

Read this NewsHour article to help you further understand the effects of the government shutdown.

You may have heard the term "Student Voice" in school or over social media. What does "Student Voice" mean to you? If you think you have a good idea for an opinion piece, consider sending a pitch to NewsHour Extra's Student Voice blog . The blog is full of powerful, original pieces by students. Write Victoria Pasquantonio at vpasquantonio@newshour.org. We'd love to hear from you!

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