[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 30 (Friday, February 13, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E276]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 OREGON'S NATIVE AMERICANS DURING THE SESQUICENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF 
                                 OREGON

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DAVID WU

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 13, 2009

  Mr. WU. Madam Speaker, on February 14, 2009 we will mark the 150th 
anniversary of Oregon's admission to the Union. We have much to reflect 
upon and celebrate since Oregon became the 33rd state. As we 
commemorate this occasion, I would like to highlight the role of Indian 
tribes in Oregon.
  We must not forget the original inhabitants of what we now call 
Oregon. Native Americans have been living in this region for well over 
12,000 years. During this time tribes developed strong cultures and 
economies, many of which were well documented first via oral histories, 
and later by white settlers. Many of the tribes were formally 
recognized by the United States when treaties were signed in 1855, four 
years before Oregon became a state.
  We must not attempt to overlook the loss of lives, culture, and well-
being that tribes have experienced during the last several hundred 
years. However, what we can do, and must do, is remember and celebrate 
the first Oregonians; their history before Oregon; and their cultural, 
economic, and political contributions during the last 150 years.
  Nine federally recognized tribes exist in Oregon. Each tribe has its 
own history that is interwoven with the history of Oregon. Today many 
tribes are experiencing economic development and cultural 
revitalization through self-determination. For others, more work needs 
to be done. Poverty in Indian country continues to be greater than in 
the rest of the United States. But as we move into the next 150 years 
of Oregon's history, it is my hope that the federal government, the 
state of Oregon, and the tribes can work together to improve the lives 
of tribal members and others in their communities.
  So on the occasion of Oregon's sesquicentennial, I recognize the 
Indian tribes for their historical, cultural, political, and economic 
contributions to the state of Oregon.

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