Co-Chairs Cole, Davids Celebrate Native American Heritage Month

Statement

As co-chairs of the Congressional Native American Caucus and tribal members, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03) issued the following statements in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. This month-long observance during November of each year recognizes the hundreds of tribes across the United States and their incredible contributions and achievements throughout American history. Cole is a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, and Davids is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

"As a member of the Chickasaw Nation and Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus, I am always proud that the month of November is devoted to celebrating the significant contributions of tribal nations to the American story and their incredible achievements as part of our collective history," said Cole. "Growing up in Oklahoma, I was very fortunate to live in a state rich in tribal heritage, but I also had the privilege of being surrounded by family members who were actively involved in tribal affairs and who sought to preserve our unique history and culture for future generations. Their examples early on in my life continue to influence my attention in Congress to federal issues affecting tribes nationwide and their unique constitutional and enduring role in American society. With the recent opening of the First Americans Museum in my home state of Oklahoma, this year's observance of Native American Heritage Month is particularly special to me because it permanently symbolizes all that the "First Americans' have done for our state and country throughout a long and distinguished history."

"Native American's countless contributions and accomplishments are rooted in the very foundation of our country and touch every part of American life today," said Davids. "This month, we honor our elders, veterans, teachers, artists, healthcare workers, families, and youth who will carry our languages, cultures, and traditions for the next seven generations. There is much to celebrate, just as there is much work to be done. We've made historic leaps for the representation of Indian Country in the federal government, Indigenous Peoples' Day has been recognized by a President for the first time, we are strengthening Tribal sovereignty, and we are making progress on healing from the painful parts of our history. I'm proud to serve as Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus as we continue that progress this Native American Heritage Month and beyond."

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