WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tom Udall, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and Martin Heinrich introduced a resolution recognizing the heritage, culture, and contributions of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women in the United States. This resolution recognizes the importance of promoting equity, providing safety, and upholding the interests of strong, diverse women in this country.
“Generations of American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian women have inspired and helped pave the way for leaders, teachers, artists, professionals, activists, thinkers, scientists, and public servants who have shaped every aspect of the American experience,” said Udall. “This resolution honors the achievements of these groundbreaking women and recognizes their countless contributions to the U.S., their Tribes, and their Native communities. As we honor the legacy of these great Native leaders, we should also recommit ourselves to ensuring that all Native women have equal access to the resources and rights that many others take for granted. Current and future generations of Native women deserve nothing less.”
“From protecting public lands and civil rights to sustaining tribal traditions, Native women have and continue to impact the foundation of America,” said Heinrich. “It is important that we acknowledge the immeasurable contributions and accomplishments of Native women. I’m proud to cosponsor this resolution to honor the legacy of Native women leaders and will continue to ensure the voices of diverse women have equal recognition in history.”
The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) released the following statement in support of this resolution: “The National Congress of American Indians is proud to support this resolution honoring Native women, who have always played an integral role in sustaining tribal cultures and community life. From Sarah Winnemucca to Helen Peterson to Wilma Mankiller, Native women have led tribal nations’ efforts to exercise their inherent sovereignty and create brighter futures for their peoples. We thank the United States Senate for acknowledging and honoring Native women and the immeasurable contributions they have made and continue to make.”
In addition to Udall and Heinrich, the resolution is sponsored by U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowksi (R-Alaska) and cosponsored by U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.)