As we observe Indigenous People’s Day this week, the two transcripts from Democracy Now! reporting reflect the continuing oppression of our Native tribes and the desecration of the land they live on. We are also aware of the lack of COVID-19 testing that has led to high incidents of COVID-19 infection on Native reservations and the lack of FEMA funding for national emergencies that has been a result of FEMA money being used to build President Trump’s Wall.
In reality, everyday should be a day of recognition of what is owed to Indigenous Peoples whose lands we live on. The resurgence and resilience of Indigenous people in this land, the resurgence and survival of communities of color, and the recognition of the sacredness of the land and the environment are all of one cloth. We live in a single ecology, not separate worlds. We have much to reflect on and much to change. Agnes Baker Pilgrim, (Grandma Aggie) kept saying to us, Wake up, world!” Are we up to the task?
Evidence of colonial control abounds.
Dr. Jim Phillips, Chair, Board of Directors
Elizabeth V. Hallett, Executive Director
You can see the video that accompanies their transcripts at Democracy Now! links as follows:
