- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
WASHINGTON — After the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday by pro-Trump supporters that resulted in violence that contributed to five deaths, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Administrative Board Officers met in response to the events surrounding the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and released the following statement:
“This week, as hundreds of thousands of Americans continue to die on a daily basis and millions more suffer the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the President of the United States chose to incite his supporters to launch a violent and uncivilized attack on our democracy, which led to destruction of public property and unfortunately the death of several American citizens. The actions of those who breached the U.S. Capitol building put the lives and liberties of many in danger. These actions, incited by President Trump and his enablers, are rooted in systemic and acute racism and hate, and represent direct attacks on our democracy.
As leaders of our own tribal nations, we understand the sacred duty undertaken by those chosen to serve their people to uphold the rule of law and the will of the people. Above all else, we value the sanctity of life. No nation should tolerate a leader who obstructs or brings harm to the peaceful democratic process and the citizens we are sworn to protect. We also understand that as leaders we have an obligation not only to our citizens today, but also to the future generations. The actions of the current President and the forces that brought him to power will have impacts for generations to come.
We commend Congress for resuming their work under unthinkable circumstances to perform their Constitutional duty and accept the certification of the free and fair election of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris. As the Congress and the new Administration lead us through a period of national healing and beyond, we urge those responsible for this week’s events to be held accountable under the fullest extent of the law, including President Trump. No one is above the law.
We also call for a return to civility in our political discourse, and also for a true reckoning regarding the forces of racism and hate that have led us to this current moment.
Our prayers go out to the lawmakers, journalists, police officers, and many staffers who were put in harm’s way at the U.S. Capitol this week.”
- NCAI President Fawn Sharp, President, Quinault Indian Nation
- NCAI Vice-President Aaron Payment, Chairperson, Sault Sainte Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians
- NCAI Recording Secretary Juana Majel Dixon, Traditional Councilwoman, Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians
- NCAI Treasurer Shannon Holsey, President, Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians
More Stories Like This
Interior Secretary Haaland to Participate Remotely at the White House Tribal Nations Summit Remotely Due to COVID-19Native News Weekly (December 3, 2023): D.C. Briefs
How Native American Members of Congress Voted on the Historic Expulsion from Congress of George Santos
First Hawaiian Woman Confirmed to Federal Bench by US Senate
Gun Lake Casino Toys for Tots Charity Event Runs Dec. 1-16
Together, we can educate, enlighten, and empower.
November is celebrated as “Native American Heritage Month.” At Native News Online, we amplify Native voices and share our relatives’ unique perspectives every day of the year. We believe every month should celebrate Native American heritage.If you appreciate our commitment to Native voices and our mission to tell stories that connect us to our roots and inspire understanding and respect, we hope you will consider making a donation this month to support our work. For those who commit to a recurring donation of $12 per month or more, or make a one-time donation of $150 or greater, we're excited to offer you a copy of our upcoming Indian Boarding School publication and access to our quarterly Founder’s Circle meetings and newsletter.
