Michigan tribal leaders call for stronger food systems after SNAP lapse

According to Michigan Advance, tribal leaders and advocates in Michigan said the recent pause in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits during the federal government shutdown highlighted ongoing barriers to food sovereignty in Indigenous communities. Meredith Migizi, executive director of Miigwech, Inc., said the interruption raised concerns about treaty obligations and reliance on federal systems that do not always meet tribal needs.

Joe Van Alstine, food distribution program specialist for the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, said food sovereignty requires tribes to build their own networks, including working with local farmers and strengthening tribal distribution centers. Households cannot receive both SNAP and Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations benefits in the same month, creating obstacles for citizens who considered switching programs during the lapse. Advocates said processing delays and limited access to distribution sites leave many tribal citizens without stable options when federal programs are disrupted.