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?

4) Media literacy : What does IHS stand for? When did the IHS form? Why did it come into existence? Use this website to help you. Note: (if the government shutdown is still in effect): what does the red banner at the top of the page say?

Extension activities :

Read these NewsHour articles and watch the video to help you further understand the effects of the government shutdown:

Your questions about the shutdown, answered

How this shutdown compares to every other since 1976

5 reasons why this shutdown is worse for federal workers

As shutdown drags on, Trump tries to reassure farmers feeling burned

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