New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez (R). Photo from Facebook
The New Mexico Legislature hosted American Indian Day on Friday but tribal leaders weren't invited to address lawmakers for the first time in the event's history. Republican leaders instead gave the platform to Gov. Susana Martinez (R). Democrats said the omission was an affront to the state's significant tribal population. "American Indian Day has also been a day where Native American legislators are given the opportunity to introduce our honored guest from our tribes, nations, and pueblos. House Republicans took that out of today’s historical ceremony," Rep. James Roger Madalena (D), who represents Jemez Pueblo, said in a press release. American Indian Day is held every year but this year's event was held during a 60-day session so Martinez was able to address a joint session of lawmakers. The next 60-day session will be held in 2017. Get the Story:
Breaking tradition, governor is sole speaker at American Indian Day (The Albuquerque Journal 2/7)
Martinez touts cooperation with tribes, but some Native American lawmakers feel slighted (The Santa Fe New Mexican 2/7)
Governor touts cooperation with tribes, but Natives feel slighted during American Indian Day at Capitol [Alternate Link] (The Santa Fe New Mexican 2/7)
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