In honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, DNC Chair Ken Martin, DNC Native Caucus Chair Clara Pratte, and DNC AAPI Caucus Chair Bel Leong-Hong released the following statement:
“For time immemorial, Indigenous peoples — including American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders — have stewarded these lands, sustained vibrant cultures, and defended their sovereignty against generations of injustice. On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor not only their enduring contributions, but their strength, resilience, and unwavering determination to protect their communities, cultures, and future generations.
“While Donald Trump and Republicans continue their relentless assault on tribal sovereignty, threaten sacred lands, undermine treaty obligations, and attack the programs and protections that Native communities depend on, Democrats refuse to stand by while the federal government abandons its trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations. Tribal sovereignty is not a political bargaining chip. It is a fundamental obligation rooted in treaties, law, and the United States Constitution. We will continue fighting to lower costs, protect access to healthcare, defend Native lands and natural resources, and confront efforts to erase Indigenous history and silence Native voices. Tribal Nations deserve more than symbolic recognition — they deserve meaningful consultation, respect for their sovereignty, and a genuine seat at the table when decisions affecting their people and homelands are made. On Indigenous Peoples’ Day and every day, Democrats stand with Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities in defending their rights, honoring their sovereignty, and building a future where the federal government fulfills its promises, not breaks them.”
###
