Discussion: An apology for Native people?

Wednesday, March 26, 2008  

The Sioux Falls Argus Leader asked readers to comment on a resolution to apologize to Native people for their treatment by the United States. The apology passed the Senate as part of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.

Rick Albrecht: "I guess I missed the boat in understanding why an apology is necessary. What will an apology accomplish?"

Scott Allan: "I have always lived by the motto, it's never too late to apologize when you've done someone wrong. This apology is way long past due, but I guess better late than never."

Taylor Lowrey: "Though I'm sure an apology will make the good senator and like-minded people feel better about themselves, an apology does not solve any of the very real problems Native Americans face."

Elizabeth Schulte: "I cannot imagine a reason why this is necessary. A bill like this would be unprogressive in efforts to have Native Americans flourish with the non-Native American society."

Al Whitlatch: "An act such as the apology is in fact probably just "feel good" actions, as an apology would not really change the de facto situation in American life."

Get the Story:
Dakota Comment: Apology to Native Americans (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 3/25)

Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments:
S.1200 | H.R.1328

Apology Resolution:
S.J.Res.4 | H.J.Res.3

Related Stories:
Editorial: Apology long overdue to Native people (3/13)
Muscogee chief calls apology too little, too late (3/10)
Editorial: 'Grandstanding' on Indian apology (3/7)
Opinion: Apologizing to Indians but not meaning it (3/7)
South Dakota delegation supports Indian apology (3/7)
Rep. Boren hopes to put Indian apology in IHCIA (3/6)
Apology resolution added to Indian health bill (2/21)
Apology resolution introduced again in Congress (2/13)
Senate committee debates U.S. apology resolution (05/26)
Witness list for hearing on U.S. apology resolution (5/24)
Hearing scheduled on U.S. apology resolution (5/20)
Brownback reintroduces Native apology resolution (04/21)
Editorial: Apology a sign of 'modern tribal power' (06/28)
Bush blamed for delay of apology resolution (6/22)
Letter: People opposing formal apology in denial (06/18)
High-profile bills delayed by Senate committee (6/17)
Indian Affairs Committee activity this week (6/15)
Editorial: Apology to Native peoples not needed (6/15)
Tribal foes question need for U.S. apology resolution (6/11)
Brownback says reservation visit inspired apology (05/25)
Consideration of U.S. apology resolution delayed (05/20)
Apology from U.S. requested by Kansas Senator (5/19)