In an unprecedented move, President Biden has taken a historic step towards addressing one of America’s darkest legacies — the Native American boarding school system. This apology, marking a new chapter in US and Native American relations, aims to bring healing, long overdue recognition, and respect to a painful era.
Why Is This Apology Significant for Native American Communities?
For over a century, the Native American boarding school system forcibly separated Indigenous children from their families. These children, some as young as four, were stripped of their identities, languages, and cultures. Federal boarding school policies led to widespread abuse, neglect, and trauma for generations. According to a 2021 Interior Department investigation, at least 973 Native American children lost their lives in these schools. The policy’s impact left scars that still affect tribal communities today.
This apology is a monumental acknowledgement that can offer hope and healing to survivors and their families. Biden’s decision to visit Gila River Indian Community’s land in Phoenix reflects a commitment to Indigenous issues, amplifying his administration’s support in states like Arizona, a significant battleground state.
Addressing Past Commitments to Native American Tribes
When Biden took office, he made promises to address the grievances and needs of Indian Country. Nearly two years ago, he pledged to focus on Native American interests, and this formal apology delivers on that promise. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, a member of the Laguna Pueblo Tribe and the first Native American to hold a Cabinet position, has been instrumental in reviewing the devastating impacts of the boarding school policies, which eventually led to the apology.
According to Haaland, Biden has “followed through on every commitment to Indian Country.” This move underscores his and Vice President Kamala Harris’ dedication to Indigenous communities, potentially boosting Harris’s standing in Arizona ahead of the 2024 election.
The Boarding School Policy: What Was Its Purpose?
The U.S. government’s boarding school policy aimed to assimilate Native American children into European-American culture. From the 1800s to the late 1960s, federal policies forced Native children into institutions far from home. They were prohibited from speaking their languages and practicing their traditions. Many were physically, emotionally, and psychologically abused, while others experienced neglect, malnutrition, and even death.
As President Biden explained, “an apology for the U.S. government’s role in the abuse and neglect of Native children was long overdue.” Biden’s apology acknowledges this dark history and provides hope for more concrete reparations to Indigenous communities.
Supporting Tribal Nations and Amplifying Their Voices
In addition to the apology, the Biden-Harris administration has shown support for tribal sovereignty and environmental preservation. The administration designated Avi Kwa Ame in Nevada and Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni near the Grand Canyon as national monuments, securing these sacred lands. These initiatives represent a lasting commitment to Native American heritage.
The administration has also funneled nearly $46 billion in federal aid to tribal nations. These funds have improved infrastructure, provided access to clean water, expanded high-speed internet, and brought electricity to communities that lacked these basic necessities.
An Ongoing Election Effort in Arizona
Arizona’s Native American community is pivotal in the 2024 election. In 2020, Biden’s victory in Arizona hinged on increased turnout in tribal lands. As pollster Mike O’Neil points out, “The race is now a turnout grab,” indicating both parties’ efforts to engage key voting blocs in tight races.
By focusing on tribal outreach and addressing Native American concerns, Biden and Harris aim to strengthen their relationship with Indigenous communities. Harris’s recent engagements with tribal leaders in Arizona and Nevada underline the significance of Native American votes. The Democratic National Committee has even launched targeted ads in Arizona, Montana, and Alaska to encourage Native voter participation.
Challenges in Rebuilding Trust with Native Americans
Rebuilding trust with Native American communities is no simple task. Generations of mistrust and historic trauma require not only apologies but actions that reflect genuine respect and partnership. As Ramona Charette Klein, a boarding school survivor, mentioned, “President Biden deserves credit for putting attention on the issue.” But, as she stressed, future leaders need to ensure long-term support and healing. Concrete measures — like improving healthcare, education, and cultural preservation programs — are essential for true reconciliation.
The Importance of Tribal Sovereignty and Collaboration
Vice President Harris reinforced the U.S. government’s commitment to tribal sovereignty, saying, “The relationship between tribal nations and the United States is sacred.” Respect for tribal governance, self-determination, and honoring treaty obligations form the foundation of this renewed relationship.
In addition, Harris’s campaign strategy includes outreach to tribal communities, a historically Democratic-leaning voting group. The campaign’s micro-targeted strategies have also included reaching out to Arizona’s Mormon voters and young men, hoping to offset former President Trump’s influence in these areas.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
President Biden’s apology marks a significant milestone in the healing journey for Native American tribes. This moment calls for federal and state governments to deepen their understanding of Indigenous issues, to actively support tribal communities, and to continue prioritizing justice and equity.
As Native American issues take a front seat in national discourse, future administrations must uphold the commitments to tribal rights, reparative actions, and genuine collaboration. For Indigenous communities, this apology offers a rare and solemn recognition of their pain — but it’s only the beginning.
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