Udall Statement Celebrating Native American Heritage Month
As Native American Heritage Month comes to a close, Mark Udall released the following statement to celebrate the rich heritage of Native Americans in our country. He also provided a statement for the Congressional Record; read HERE for more details.
"This month, we recognize the enduring presence of America’s Native communities and their contributions to our country’s wellbeing and to the protection of our shared cultural heritage. Tribes across our country do critical work to protect important resources and historical sites, as well as to maintain thriving economic bases on their tribal lands and for the regions as a whole. The successes of the Ute Mountain Ute and the Southern Ute tribes in Colorado in particular are a reminder that Indian Country can serve as a strong economic driver that plays a critical role in our country's overall economic recovery.
"As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, we must remember the unique relationship and the trust responsibility that exists between our federal government and tribal nations. This is especially important when addressing issues that have hit Indian Country especially hard, such as unemployment, access to health care, education and housing, reliable law enforcement and access to justice. Upholding that trust is vital to respecting tribal sovereignty and protecting tribes’ ability to determine what is in the best interest of their communities. I remain committed to working for these goals together."
In his statement for the Congressional Record, Udall highlighted the recent loss of a powerful figure in the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Indian Country and Colorado. Ernest House, Sr., who passed away earlier this year, was a former chairman of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, representing the tribe before national, statewide and private organizations for over 50 years.
"He was a stalwart defender of American Indian sovereignty and a champion of cultural preservation," Udall wrote. "I have no doubt that his legacy will be a strong part of our lives in Colorado and my thoughts continue to be with his family."