New Mexico officials are applauding President Biden for issuing a formal apology for the federal government’s mistreatment of Native American children. In a recent speech, Biden acknowledged the government’s role in forcibly removing Indigenous children from their families and communities and placing them in boarding schools designed to assimilate them into mainstream American culture.
The boarding schools, which operated for over a century, subjected Native American children to harsh discipline, forced assimilation, and the suppression of their languages and cultural practices. Many children also experienced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of school officials.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham praised Biden’s apology, calling it a “significant step towards healing the wounds of the past.” She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and addressing the historical injustices that Indigenous communities have endured for generations.
Senator Ben Ray Luján echoed Governor Lujan Grisham’s sentiments, stating that the federal government must take responsibility for its actions and work towards repairing the harm caused by the boarding school system. He emphasized the importance of honoring the resilience and strength of Native American communities.
Other tribal leaders and advocates in New Mexico also expressed support for Biden’s apology, highlighting the need for concrete actions to address the ongoing impacts of historical trauma and promote healing and reconciliation. They called for increased investments in Native American communities, improved access to culturally appropriate services, and a commitment to upholding tribal sovereignty and self-determination.
Overall, the response from New Mexico leaders to Biden’s apology has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing hope that it will lead to meaningful change and improved relationships between the federal government and Indigenous communities.
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