WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) led the introduction of a bipartisan and bicameral resolution to recognize the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, celebrating the rich histories, unique cultures, and lasting contributions of Indigenous Peoples across the United States.
The resolution also supports the official designation of Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday. Indigenous Peoples' Day is currently celebrated on the second Monday of October in over 200 municipalities and 17 states, including New Mexico.
“For thousands of years, Native Americans have lived on and cared for their ancestral lands – lands that we now call the United States. Their histories and legacy deserve enormous respect. That is why I am proud to lead this resolution in the Senate to mark the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. It is one small but powerful way we can honor and celebrate Native American cultural traditions and histories that have shaped and continue to shape the United States.
“Working with the 23 federally recognized Tribes in New Mexico and the many more across Indian Country, I have seen the strength and resilience of Tribal leaders and members. Throughout our nation’s history, Tribes and Tribal members have faced untold challenges and unfathomable atrocities. And they have served this country with extraordinary bravery, fighting for our shared values and the safety of all.
“There are many today who are eager to attack Tribal sovereignty, erase Native American history, and defund Tribal education and health care. They are loud, but they are not right. Join me today in standing with Tribal communities, defending Tribal sovereignty and self-determination, and honoring the people who called this country home long before it became the United States of America.”
The resolution is led by Heinrich and cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-N.J.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.). The resolution is led by U.S. Representatives Norma Torres (D-Calif.), Tom Cole (R-Okla.), and Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) in the House.
The resolution is endorsed by Barona Band of Mission Indians, Cherokee Nation, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), National Council of Urban Indian Health, Navajo Nation, Acoma Pueblo, and Alaska Federation of Natives.
The text of the resolution is here.
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