[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 167 (Thursday, November 21, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S8454]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

 Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. President, each November we 
recognize National Native American Heritage Month to honor the 
tradition, culture, contributions, achievements, and sacrifices of 
those that originally inhabited this great Nation. With over 5 million 
individuals of Native American descent in the United States, it is 
important to celebrate the instrumental impact Native American culture 
has had on American history. National Native American Heritage Month is 
an opportunity to focus our attention on tribal sovereignty by ensuring 
trust responsibilities are upheld and government-to-government 
relationships with tribes across the Nation are strengthened.
  This month has added significance to me, as I represent a state with 
nine treaty tribes. I would like to personally acknowledge and honor 
South Dakota's nine treaty tribes: the Cheyenne River Sioux, the Crow 
Creek Sioux, the Flandreau Santee Sioux, the Lower Brule Sioux, the 
Oglala Sioux, the Rosebud Sioux, the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the 
Standing Rock Sioux, and the Yankton Sioux. Each tribe brings rich 
cultures and histories that greatly benefit all South Dakotans, not 
just in November, but throughout the year.
  American Indians across the United States have served and continue to 
serve in our Armed Forces at rates higher than any other ethnic group, 
and their dedication and commitment to the United States is unwavering. 
This month, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, 
Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, Oglala Sioux Tribe, Rosebud Sioux Tribe, 
Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate and Yankton Sioux 
Tribe were honored with Congressional Gold Medals for the contributions 
of their code talkers during World Wars I and II. The use of tribal 
languages equipped our Armed Forces with a system of communication that 
was not decoded. The valiant contributions of tribal code talkers to 
the United States are unparalleled and to be commended.
  It is also important to reflect on the numerous contributions Native 
Americans across the country have made in our society this November. 
Countless dedicated individuals continue to work on the ground in 
Indian Country to improve tribal communities for future generations. 
However, the Federal government must also uphold its trust 
responsibility with tribes and continue to improve access to 
healthcare, education, and adequate housing. Thoughtful communication 
and collaboration between tribal and federal leaders on these issues is 
necessary to advance the quality of life for American Indians.
  This November, I urge Americans to participate in the celebration of 
Native American Heritage Month by taking a moment to learn more about 
the heritage, culture, and various contributions Native Americans have 
made to the United States throughout our shared history. I would like 
to acknowledge and praise the more than 70,000 American Indians in 
South Dakota who enrich our communities on a daily basis. Education and 
awareness of tribal histories will enable us to move forward as a 
Nation which embraces the diversity of all.

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