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MAY 10, 2000

A March report by the US Commission on Civil Rights criticized the state of South Dakota for an apparent dual system of justice: one for whites and one for the state's Native American population.

Governor Bill Janklow was not visibly pleased with the report nor any of its suggestions. At a meeting Tuesday, he finally made his criticisms known to some of the panel's members.

But at the end of the three hour meeting, he urged the group to "forget the report" and just move forward with improving issues of racism in the state.

Janklow's comments and suggestions were not appreciated by everyone. Some accused Janklow of avoiding the issue and the facts brought to him.

The meeting itself was seen as "divisive." The chairperson of the Civil Rights Commission declined to attend.

Get the Story:
Janklow to rights panel: Forget report, move on (The Argus Leader 5/10)
Many are disappointed with Janklow comments, solutions (The Argus Leader 5/10)
Janklow picks apart report (The Talking Circle 5/10)
Racism study wanted in SD (The Talking Circle 5/10)
Format for talks divisive (The Argus Leader 5/6)

Documents / Reports:
Read the full US Commission report Native Americans in South Dakota: An Erosion of Confidence in the Justice System (USCCR March 2000)

Discussion:
What do you think about relations between Indians and non-Indians? Is there mistrust among your community towards the judicial system? Towards police? Join our discussion and offer your opinions today.