Dare to Ask: Why no apology to Native Americans?
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Filed Under:
National
"New York had the first American Indian Day, in May 1916, and many other states have followed suit. Florida proclaimed Sept. 28, 2007, as American Indian Day - believed to be a first for the Sunshine State. Federal government-wise, November has been designated "National American Indian Heritage Month" since 1990.
Now, about the apology . . .
A resolution currently working through Congress states that the federal government violated many treaties, forced Indians from their homelands (causing many to perish), forcibly removed their children to boarding schools, and stole tribal lands and resources. In the resolution, the U.S. apologizes "to all Native Peoples for the many instances of violence, maltreatment, and neglect inflicted on Native Peoples."
The measure's sponsor, U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., says it has a good chance of passage.
"Apologies are tough," he said. "But I'm convinced the only way to move forward with relations with the Native American community is to acknowledge that chapter and ask forgiveness."
Brownback himself came around to the idea in recent years, after meeting with American Indians and seeing their "bitterness" firsthand."
Get the Story:
Dare to Ask: Honoring American Indians
(The Jacksonville Times-Union 7/23)
Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments:
S.1200
|
H.R.1328
Apology Resolution:
S.J.Res.4
|
H.J.Res.3
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