Impact of the
Federal Government Shutdown
On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, the United States Federal Government went into shutdown as Congress could not come to an agreement to pass a federal budget or a continuing resolution. When a shutdown occurs, many programs that people depend on may be delayed or paused. Programs that are often impacted by a shutdown can include healthcare, food assistance, housing, education, and environmental services. Additionally, federal employees and contractors can be furloughed or go without pay, and tribal programs can face funding gaps that limit services to our communities.
As the government shutdown affects everyone, the Navajo Nation Washington Office has collected a resource guide for those affected by the shutdown. Click the button below to access the guide.
The Navajo Nation Washington Office is gathering stories and experiences from individuals impacted by the recent federal government shutdown. Your input will help us document these impacts, advocate for solutions, and tell the story of how shutdowns affect Navajo families, workers, and programs.
Participation in this survey is voluntary, and your input will be kept anonymous in any reports or communications.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at (202) 682-7390 or info@nnwo.org.
WHAT SHOULD I SAY?
When answering the survey, please include as much specific detail as you can. You may write from your own experience or on behalf of your family member, program, office, or community. Consider sharing:
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Which programs or services have been interrupted. You can say SNAP, healthcare, education grants, environmental services, etc.
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How those interruptions have affected people, such as delayed paychecks, paused projects, lost services, community hardships
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Who is most affected. It can include elders, students, employees, individuals or families
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What short-term challenges you're currently facing, or long-term concerns you have if the shutdown continues
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What support or action you believe is needed from federal or tribal leaders
Your insight will help the Navajo Nation Washington Office share accurate and powerful information with policymakers, and ensure that the voices of those impacted are heard in Washington, D.C.