> the absolutist belief that these peoples' lives will be improved by exposing them to a modern education

I haven't seen the documentary, did anyone say that? My point is if you get monetary benefits, then you need to be able to read, write, and do arithmetic. This isn't a controversial idea. We aren't talking about uncontacted tribes. And it's voluntary. Some people want to get education, and they should be able to. The idea the that the government should somehow deny them that is untenable.

And if you think the government should not offer them social security at all then you have a bigger problem.