[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 12, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E32]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING MARSHALL McKAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 12, 2021

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
Marshall McKay and his legacy as a champion of Native American heritage 
and the rights of indigenous people in his community and around the 
world. My wife Patti and I are devastated to learn of Marshall McKay's 
passing, who died of COVID-19.
  Born in Colusa, California, to a renowned Native American healer and 
basket weaver, Mr. McKay was the first person from his family to attend 
college. Following his graduation from Sonoma State University, he 
worked for the U.S. Department of Defense repairing and maintaining 
nuclear submarines for 15 years. Following his service, he became a 
founding member of the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation and was 
appointed to the Smithsonian Institution's Board of the National Museum 
of the American Indian, which stands just a few blocks from this 
chamber.
  In addition, Mr. McKay served on the Yocha Dehe Tribal Council from 
1984 to 2015. His dedication to the work of the council culminated in a 
decade of service as its chairman. During that time, the tribe was a 
key partner with the local community on several fronts and a benefactor 
to many local nonprofits. Through his many roles, Mr. McKay championed 
the environment and fought for tribal land-use rights.
  His life's work has had an indelible positive impact on his tribe, 
our state, and the nation. He was a beloved member of our community, 
and he will be deeply missed. Our hearts are with Marshall McKay's 
family, loved ones, and tribe during this difficult time.

                          ____________________