WASHINGTON – Haskell Indian Nations University, operated by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education, faced scrutiny over allegations of sexual assault, bullying, and retaliation during a recent hearing held by two U.S. House panels. The school in Lawrence, Kansas, was criticized for its response to these issues as documented in a scathing report from the Bureau of Indian Education.
The report highlighted that Haskell did not act on sexual abuse claims, lacks institutional control, and is unresponsive to student complaints. Students and interested parties requested the report, finalized in January 2023, which was withheld by the government for over a year. After a FOIA request and a federal lawsuit, the bureau finally released the report with redactions in April 2024.
One of the main concerns raised during the hearing was the lack of transparency and integrity at Haskell. The revolving door of leadership at the university, with eight presidents in six years, was cited as a contributing factor to the school’s issues. House Republicans criticized officials for ignoring students’ pleas for justice.
Witnesses at the hearing, including former President Ronald Graham and former coach Clay Mayes, spoke about the toxic work culture at the school and the Bureau of Indian Education. Students, especially Indigenous students, were noted to experience higher rates of sexual assault and discouraged from reporting incidents.
Participants in the hearing emphasized the need for accountability and a safe learning environment at Haskell. The allegations and concerns raised during the hearing shed light on the challenges faced by students and the lack of action taken by officials to address the ongoing issues at the university.
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