Native American Languages
Over the last 300 years, NativeAmericans have, despite the ethnic prejudices they faced and the second-rate citizen status they were given, contributed to the growth of the modern United States. From arts and culture to industry, sports, military achievements and much more, they have contributed and continue to contribute immensely.
Their ability to contribute and achieve so much is based on who they are. If their status as sovereign people who areAmericans is not protected, the roots from which the contributions come will weaken. Ensuring NativeAmerican sovereignty is essential to securing their long-term contribution to the country’s growth.
When the Europeans first invaded theAmericas, they were called “settlers” because they came to settle in the land and make a new home for themselves. In the process, they took away the land and homes of the Native tribal people who were the original occupants of the continent. Some NativeAmerican tribes were later confined to reservations through various treaties. Those who were not federally recognized were usually deprived of even these basic rights. The need to address the injustices of the past makes it vital that the rights and lands of the NativeAmericans are guaranteed to them through federal recognition.