Johnson Honored for Leadership and Advocacy of Tribal Historic Preservation

Press Release

Johnson Honored for Leadership and Advocacy of Tribal Historic Preservation

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) was honored as an Honorary Tribal Historic Preservation Officer today for a lifetime of work supporting the preservation of American Indian culture. The National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (NATHPO) presented Johnson with an award during a Washington, DC ceremony today.

"Native American culture is part of the fabric of our nation and should be respected. I have long supported legislation and funding to preserve the character and culture of our national heritage," Johnson said. "I will continue to use my seniority in Washington to address the needs of Indian Country."

Over the past five years Johnson helped increase funding levels for Tribal Historic Preservation from $3.2 million to $6.4 million.

The NATHPO is an association of tribal governments that are committed to preserving, rejuvenating, and improving tribal cultures. They work to support Native languages, arts, dances, music, oral traditions, cultural properties, tribal museums, tribal cultural centers, and tribal libraries.

In South Dakota, NATHPO has supported the preservation, maintenance and revitalization of the culture and traditions of the Native peoples, including working with Mt. Rushmore's Park Superintendent Gerard Baker to increase the tribal presence at the monument.

Source