[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 177 (Thursday, November 15, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2447-E2448]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              THE NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY ACT OF 2007

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 13, 2007

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support 
of H.J. Res. 62, the Native American Heritage Day Act of 2007. I 
commend my colleague Representative Baca for introducing this 
resolution and am honored to be an original cosponsor of the 
legislation. This is a much needed resolution that recognizes the vital 
contributions of Native Americans to the history of our Nation.
  I only need to acknowledge my own heritage to know that the steps to 
build the bridge of understanding and diplomacy with the Native 
Americans and other minorities have been inadequate in this country. 
This legislation proves that we live in a nation that is great for 
being able to reflect accurately and recognize the history of its own 
oppressed people.
  This bill considers the Friday after Thanksgiving as the appropriate 
day for the Native American Heritage Day. The timing for this day could 
not be more appropriate than during a weekend of celebration and giving 
thanks. It is only right that the original inhabitants of our nation be 
duly recognized in conjunction with this important celebration.
  Mr. Speaker, a specific day of recognition will allow future 
generations to appropriately recognize and admire Native Americans for 
their important contributions to all aspects of the American life. For 
too long, this assistance in the development of our nation has been 
overlooked.
  This day of heritage does not only exhibit proper respect for the 
indigenous people of

[[Page E2448]]

our Nation, but paves the way for tremendous educational opportunities. 
The implementation of this bill would greatly increase awareness and 
respect for Native Americans through culturally competent incorporation 
of their historic contributions into our educational institutions. 
Taking such action is absolutely essential for our educational 
curriculum in order to develop progressive young people who can propel 
our society above intolerance.
  Mr. Speaker, there are numerous Congressional findings about the 
contributions and achievements that the Native Americans have made to 
the United States that have not been fully realized by the general 
public. Many aspects of our government, culture, and society have 
ultimately been derived from Native Americans. Their ideals of checks 
and balances, freedom of speech, and separation of governmental powers 
were essential to the foundation of our nation's policies. Native 
Americans have, and continue to contribute revolutionary advancements 
in many fields such as agriculture, medicine, and music just to name a 
few.
  Mr. Speaker, this formal recognition is long overdue. Native 
Americans of this country deserve such recognition without delay. It is 
absolutely necessary to set at least a moment in our way of life to 
acknowledge the roots of our democracy.
  I urge my colleagues to wholeheartedly support this resolution and 
other initiatives for the proper recognition of Native Americans.

                          ____________________