Post by Totems4jt on Jul 16, 2008 17:27:50 GMT -5
Jay Tavare
Feb 26, 08 - 9:36 PM A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
I wanted to share this news with you all...
"Today the congress passed a bill to officially apologize to all the American Indian Tribes and the treatment they received during the Indian wars. They acknowledge the fact, the Indians were treated so harshly including, removal of the the tribes from their lands and the fact they broke most of the treaties that were made with them. This was done with the hope to start the healing that must take place and congress is hoping to improve the living condition of the Natives on the rez. "
Now for the folks who remember, I wrote an answer regarding this and I believe it's still on the Q and A's. I did say the first step is to acknowledge the atrocities committed against the Indians before the healing can begin. Although I think this is just a simple bill, it's still very symbolic as most Americans who grew up never learning the true history of the Turtle Islands... which the real name for the America. With films like Into the West, many more folks got a glimpse of what really happened. It was not a happy ending but somehow against all odds, Indians have survived and their way of life although is different nowadays, they are still holding on to our traditions and stories. I have waited for this day for a long time as I am sure many elders have to. The time of change is upon us. My film with Old Bear will reflect many of the changes that awaits us all as a race. I wish all of my Native brothers and Sisters a happy and free future.
The truth shall set you free...
With all my heart
JT>
____________________________________________________
Linda K.
Feb 27th, 2008 - 3:13 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Jay,
It is about time that Congress started treating the Native American with respect. I am not Native American and I hope that you don't hold it against me but I have the up most respect for Native Americans and their traditions. It was so sad that the Native Americans were torn away from their homelands and given very little food and shelter to survive back in those days, but they always held their heads up high and kept their traditions going.
Yes, it is true that the truth will set you free.
Thank you for sharing this with us.
Take Care!
Your Friend
Linda K.
Louisville KY
____________________________________________________
Shay
Feb 27th, 2008 - 5:14 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hi Jay, that is awesome news, a long time coming but the fact that it has finally happened is what is most important. You are so right in regards to the acknowledgement of wrong doing and apologizing for it, that is the first step of the healing process. I pray this will the beginning of even greater things for all American Indians and eventually all people, that we learn to work together and treat each other with unconditional love and respect and make this a better world for everyone.
Shay
____________________________________________________
Running Red Fox (Forum Hostess)
Feb 27th, 2008 - 5:10 AM A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hello Jay, Thank you for sharing this information.
This is indeed a historical day for us all and as the saying goes "A Giant Step for Mankind."
I celebrate this step with you and everyone while looking forward to the healing process and respectful relationships between the American society and our Native Nations.
Peace
&
Love
RRF
Forum Hostess
____________________________________________________
Alison
Feb 27th, 2008 - 7:51 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
A step in the right direction but what I want to know is why, if this is such a big deal, I hadn't heard anything about it til now. I pay attention to the news and this is a first for me. If it hadn't been for Jay I probably never would've heard of this. Now, if only Australia would follow suit and do what it can to make amends to the aboriginal people there might actually be hope for this sad, dark world. Think now the government will make the correct changes to its history books and kids will learn the truth in school?
www.xanga.com/mcdaniel37
____________________________________________________
Julie3002
Feb 27th, 2008 - 8:35 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
It is good news and has been a long time coming! They have endured much and continue to stand as a strong and beautiful people despite it all. Thank you for the information Jay and I look forward to your new film with Old Bear.
(Ali-Kat, I agree with you 100%. Let's hope someone listens and does the same for our Aboriginal brothers and sisters.)
Love ya'll
Julie
____________________________________________________
Seania
Feb 27th, 2008 - 9:44 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thank you Jay for the update. And yes, I agree, "The truth shall set you free." Indeed.
As for the apology, I think it is great that is has finally been offered. But it will only be as good, if those that it is offered too, will 'forgive'. And unfortunately, that comes down to each individual. And I pray that each can forgive and go forth to make a better place & continue to mend relationships. Learn from the past in order to make tomorrow better. Definitely, a big step.
I also agree with Ali-girl. Why haven't we heard this in the news? Here is a brief mention of it a couple of days ago: www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096416684.
The only thing I can find is an amendment to the American Indian & Alaska Natives Health Care....
seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/352846_healthcare27.html &
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/26/AR2008022601261.html
In the end, I'm all for better and healthier living styles . . .
____________________________________________________
Turquoise
Feb 27th, 2008 - 10:38 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
This is a wonderful news! I celebrate this with all my heart with all Natives even though I am not a Native American. It is definitely a start to a healing process.
I am with Alison: why there isn't a good cover about this on the news? BTW Australia very recently apologized the Aborigines as well (I think in early February?). When I read that news I was hoping this might be a good example for America and I guess it did become a good example.
I really hope that they improve the living conditions in the rez as you said Jay. This is really a good start. Thanks for letting us know.
T.
____________________________________________________
Blue Angel
Feb 27th, 2008 - 1:00 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Finally, a very positive and big step forward to hopefully a better and brighter future for the American Natives/Indians some day.
It was about time and long, long overdue.
Please keep us Europeans informed about the progress and what it will mean for all American Natives/Indians still living on reservations and all the others living outside the reservations.
Doncaster
www.myspace.com/fourtysomethingwotsit
____________________________________________________
Sissy
Feb 27th, 2008 - 9:29 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
That is absolutely awesome news. It has been too long in coming but now that it is here, let the healing begin. Sometimes it's hard to forgive and mend relations but this looks like it's a start. Maybe now the Tribes will get some reparations for past wrongs(maybe that's naivete or wishful thinking on my part, there's always hoping).
Much love & peace,
Sissy
____________________________________________________
Summer Breeze
Feb 28th, 2008 - 12:10 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thumbs Up.
____________________________________________________
rita pallada
Feb 29th, 2008 - 2:13 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
hello jay thanks for sharing it is about time finelly,they can never give back what they have taken from the native people,but it is a start, and it is so very important.and i pray for the future that it would be a better life for the native people,they have my respect
greetings
rita pallada
netherlands
____________________________________________________
Blackangel/Malaika
Feb 29th, 2008 - 4:18 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thank you for sharing this with us Jay! I must agree with others, I had not heard anything in the headlines but it does not surprise me. There has never been much fanfare when it comes to acknowledging the existence, treatment, and current struggles of indigenous people. I did read about Australia and their apology earlier this month and I was happy to see it. These are big steps and hopefully moves that are more than symbolic.
Davis, CA
www.myspace.com/blackangel250
____________________________________________________
Carol aka The Empress
Mar 1st, 2008 - 2:10 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
When I hear this news, I know that there's hope for America. Thanks for sharing Jay!
____________________________________________________
Donna Williams
Mar 2nd, 2008 - 2:35 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hadiyh Jay,
So'indgin? I pray that you, your family and loved ones are having a blessed day. Misiyh kyo for sharing this long awaited news. I am happy that the US Government has acted on their apologies to Native Americans in the US by writing their apologies in a bill. My initial reaction to this news is: I just wonder to what extent will USA's apologies translate into implementable programs and services for off-reserve Native Americans as well.
We are still waiting here in Canada for apologies for Canada's direct and indirect involvement in: residential schools; removal from our traditional territories also via residential schools, blood ratio=Status Indian, World War II, ownership and access to natural resources on traditional territories. FYI, the Chinese were apologized to for the Head Tax!
Another injustice faced locally are the families of Robert "Willy" Pickton victims. They will not have due process nor justice because BCs AG Wally Oppal's decision to not having a second trial for these remaining murders. Some of these women were from my community. I cannot imagine what their families are going through! Too many injustices legally sanctioned to save tax dollars! Sure Pickton is not going to get out of jail! He is also not going to be tried for murders that he committed!
I just stopped by to say hello, Jay, and in my research on Canada's apologies to First Nations, I found the Pickton decision. I am sooo very busy with my school work and life that I didn't get a chance to hear all the news on the Pickton trial.
I look forward to seeing your project with Old Bear.
Take care and God bless. Keep safe.
Laksilyu Woman
Canada
www.myspace.com/ndngurlmotown
____________________________________________________
lovablegypsy
Mar 3rd, 2008 - 6:39 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thanks so much for sharing this news. I am happy to see this sign of progress, but still there is a long way to go
www.myspace.com/lovablegypsy
____________________________________________________
Christi
Mar 3rd, 2008 - 1:55 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hi Jay & to All,
A few weeks ago I read where the current president of Australia apologized to the Aboriginal peoples there, after his predecessor steadfastly refused to do so. The predecessor had said the present generation wasn't responsible for past atrocities. He was in denial of the fact that his generation had and still was benefiting from these acts. We have all benefitted from; an ancestor's suffering, an ancestor's accomplishments, or an ancestor's misdeeds, but for most of us it's all of these combined. If my father/mother or grandfathers/grandmothers committed a crime or injustice, and I could apologize, I would. I’ve worked with people who refuse to apologize to students even when they know something is our fault, and it always makes the client stay mad longer, and complain louder about poor customer service. Some people are just too arrogant to say sorry.
I also hope that congress keeps their word “this time”, and implements needed programs, after they ask the people what they want and need. Congratulations Jay, and all our American Indian brothers and sisters!
Christi
seven3_ad@yahoo.com
____________________________________________________
Thunderland
Mar 4th, 2008 - 12:42 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Australia doesn't have a President, Republics have Presidents, we are not a republic. Our leader is a Prime Minister, our head of state is Queen Elizabeth.
The previous Prime Minister served us well for 11 years. The current one is yet to prove himself. Saying sorry hasn't proven anything, it doesn't fix the water crisis, the raising interest rates and other issues.
____________________________________________________
Rosita
Mar 3rd, 2008 - 3:20 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read. I also would like to say I'm Sorry!!
I'm so thrilled to hear this news from Jay that the americans want to apologize for what they have done to the Native Americans. I do not know if it helps but I want to say that I’m sorry as well because dutch people have also hurt the Native Americans! I’m so so Sorry!!! If there wash anything that I could do to change that past, I would do that without second thought!!!
And I will say it again I’m so so Sorry…
This Rose is from me to all the Native American people.
With Love, Rosita
Holland
____________________________________________________
Miss Davis - a.k.a. "Five Shrieks"
Mar 4th, 2008 - 2:16 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Wow. Awesome news indeed. This is a better late than never kind of thing, but I'm very glad to see the Govt own up to the mistreatment. This is a step in a good direction.
Miss Davis
____________________________________________________
Shay
Mar 5th, 2008 - 10:20 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Another Historic Moment
WASHINGTON - President Bush apologized Monday that the country waited decades to honor Master Sgt. Woodrow Wilson Keeble for his military valor in Korea, giving him the Medal of Honor more than 25 years after he died.
Keeble is the first full-blooded Sioux Indian to receive the nation’s highest military award. But it came almost six decades after he saved the lives of fellow soldiers. Keeble died in 1982.
“On behalf of our grateful nation, I deeply regret that this tribute comes decades too late,” Bush said at the White House medal ceremony. “Woody will never hold this medal in his hands or wear it on his uniform. He will never hear a president thank him for his heroism. He will never stand here to see the pride of his friends and loved ones, as I see in their eyes now.”
But, Bush said, there are things the nation can still do for Keeble, even all these years later.
“We can tell his story. We can honor his memory. And we can follow his lead, by showing all those who have followed him on the battlefield the same love and generosity of spirit that Woody showed his country every day,” the president said before a somber East Room audience that included three rows of Keeble’s family members.
'Soldiers watched in awe'
Fellow soldiers, family members and others have been pushing Congress and the White House for years to award Keeble the medal. They said the man known as “Chief,” a member of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux tribe, deserves the medal for his actions in Korea in 1951, when he saved the lives of other soldiers by taking out more than a dozen of their enemies on a steep hill, even though he himself was wounded.
“Soldiers watched in awe as Woody single-handedly took out one machine gun nest, and then another,” Bush said. “When Woody was through, all 16 enemy soldiers were dead, the hill was taken, and the Allies won the day.”
Pentagon officials had said the legal deadline had passed to award the medal to Keeble unless Congress specifically authorized it. Sens. Byron Dorgan and Kent Conrad, D-N.D.; Tim Johnson, D-S.D.; and John Thune, R-S.D., introduced legislation to award Keeble the medal, and it was signed by Bush last year.
Keeble was recommended twice for the medal in the 1950s but the applications were lost both times. He instead received the Distinguished Service Cross.
“Some blamed the bureaucracy for a shameful blunder,” Bush said. “Others suspected racism — Woody was a full-blooded Sioux Indian. Whatever the reason, the first Sioux to ever receive the Medal of Honor died without knowing it was his.”
'Woody never complained'
His friends felt he was cheated, Bush said, “yet Woody never complained. See, he believed America was the greatest nation on earth — even when it made mistakes.”
Seventeen members of Keeble’s family, along with soldiers who served with him, attended the ceremony. Keeble’s stepson, Russell Hawkins, accepted the award along with Keeble’s nephew. He said after the ceremony that he does not believe it was racism that delayed the honor.
“I think it was truly lost,” he said of the original recommendations. “I don’t think Woodrow would say it was discrimination. He didn’t see racial colors, he didn’t see racial barriers.”
Hawkins said the family has been pushing for the medal since the early 1970s.
Keeble, who was born in Waubay, S.D., moved to North Dakota as a child. He was also a veteran of World War II and received more than 30 citations, including four Purple Hearts.
Bush saluted Keeble for his military heroism, but also for his conduct in his personal life — pursuing a woman he loved, becoming “an everyday hero” in his community and maintaining cheerfulness — despite his own grief and physical suffering. The wounds he suffered in Korea would “haunt him the rest of his life” and strokes paralyzed his right side and took away his ability to speak, but he mowed lawns and gave money to down-and-out strangers.
“Those who knew Woody can tell countless stories like this — one of a great soldier who became a Good Samaritan,” the president said.
____________________________________________________
Running Red Fox (Forum Hostess)
Mar 6th, 2008 - 6:05 AM A Historic Day for us all... Another Historic Moment
Hello Shay, thank you for sharing this story.
Congratulations to the late Master Sgt. Woodrow Wilson Keeble, and to his family & friends. May he always be remembered
Blessings
RRF
Forum Hostess
____________________________________________________
Seania
Mar 6th, 2008 - 4:15 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
This is an awesome story Shay. Thank you for sharing it. I have not even seen or heard of it....that saddens my heart. So thank you again.
____________________________________________________
Rita Ann
Mar 6th, 2008 - 12:40 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
First of all, thanks Jay, for telling us about this way too long-awaited bill - in this case, better late than never, I guess, but still, why did it have to take so long??. Not surprisingly, I didn't hear about this particular bill at all in the news. In my opinion, as a result of this bill, what I would truly love to see, is our legislators re-examining the questionable land grabs, aka "treaties" made with the Indians and making restitution whenever possible.
The American Indians did not understand the European attitudes about land holding. The Indians assumed that they were only granting the visitors a place to sit down and use the land for a while. In American Indian culture, land was "used" by the community - it was not something that one owned either individually or collectively. As Crazy Horse said, "one does not sell the land that people walk on." The English principle of land ownership had no equivalent in American Indian culture. Most of the land "deals" were conducted with chiefs who had no real authority to make treaties. They would find an Indian with a claim to leadership no matter how small, help him build up his following among local Indians by giving him money and goods to distribute and provide him with military support from time to time when his claim to leadership was challenged by other Indians. Once this had been accomplished this Indian was established as the "lord of the lands" with the authority to sign away the lands of all the Indians in the area. The dealmakers would also confuse and seduce them with alcohol and take advantage of the cultural disarray which followed the breakdown of their cultures' ways by using alcohol to "ease" the process of negotiations.
Then they would intimidate by armed force. Opportunities for such actions always followed "incidents" such as an act of violence by an individual or a small group of Indians. The troops would visit the Indian community and force a land concession or further compromise local Indian autonomy with additional regulations.
The Indians were also harassed with continual pressures from the private sector, for example: livestock was allowed to roam through Indian fields destroying crops; whites would begin to cut hay or wood on Indian land; and some even went so far as to plow, plant and even to settle on the edges of Indian land, testing boundary definitions which were always very vaguely defined in the deeds.
Then they would force the Indians into debt and take land as "payment". A favorite strategy in the eastern states was to impose fines for a long list of offenses which ranged from individual acts of violence to the observation of native religious ceremonies. When these fines could not be paid, then their land was seized for the "offenses".
Second, thanks, Shay, for posting the article about a true hero, Woodrow Wilson Keeble. I have been following this remarkable man's story very closely in the news. Here's a link that contains a transcript of Mr. Keeble's award ceremony in the White House. It's VERY moving. Check it out, everyone.
www.nysun.com/article/72344
If anyone deserves a movie made about his life, this man does. Who should play the part of Woody Keeble? Our very own Chief Jay Tavare, of course. How about it, Jay - and fellow Jaybirds, whadaya say?
Rita Ann
rraffanti@excite.com
____________________________________________________
Rachel Livingston from Pennsylvania
Mar 26th, 2008 - 5:47 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Jay I watched "burry my heart at wounded knee",I don't remember ever crying so hard at the end of a movie.And ever since I've been obsessed w/the Native American experience(flims,books,art...).
My name is Rachel (23yr.old)and I can trace my ancestry back to Robert R. Livingston.He served in the continental congress and was one of the five drafters of the Declaration of Independence.I used to be so proud of this and this country.But there is so much hate & Murder in the making of it that i'm looking at it all differently.I'm haunted by it and fell so guilty.
I'm so so sorry for the way your people were treated and are still treated.
How can you forgive?have you?
Do you believe in this Gov. at all?
And do you plan on endorsing any 2008 presidential candidate?
PS- I saw you in "into the west" and became a fan in reading the Q&A's on this site.You are such a beautiful soul no suprise that it radiates to the outside.
Just another loving fan, hugs and kiss,Rachel Livingston
____________________________________________________
Running Red Fox (Forum Hostess)
Mar 26th, 2008 - 9:44 AM A Historic Day for us all... Hi Rachel L.
Hello & welcome, Rachel Livingston from Pennsylvania.
It's nice to see that you have read thru the Q&As. Jay's words have touched many.
Thank you for stopping by and sharing your feelings on this issue. Congratulations on tracing your ancestry.
Please feel free to post more often
RRF
Forum Hostess
____________________________________________________
Christi
Mar 27th, 2008 - 5:41 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hi Rachel Livingston, Welcome
There is no need for you to be ashamed, or feel guilty, as even these emotions can turn to resentment for some. As I mentioned above "We have all benefitted from; an ancestor's suffering, an ancestor's accomplishments, or an ancestor's misdeeds, but for most of us it's all of these combined." If you could go back far enough you'd probably come across ancestors who were invaders and the conquered, slaves and slavers, pesants and nobels, saints and siners. History is to learn from, and not to punish your self with, and you should never be ashamed of who you are, or where you come from.
Christi
____________________________________________________
Christi
Mar 27th, 2008 - 5:44 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
p.s. to Rachel,
WOW, the Declaration of Independence! That maybe the 3rd, or 2nd most important document ever written in the world.
Feb 26, 08 - 9:36 PM A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
I wanted to share this news with you all...
"Today the congress passed a bill to officially apologize to all the American Indian Tribes and the treatment they received during the Indian wars. They acknowledge the fact, the Indians were treated so harshly including, removal of the the tribes from their lands and the fact they broke most of the treaties that were made with them. This was done with the hope to start the healing that must take place and congress is hoping to improve the living condition of the Natives on the rez. "
Now for the folks who remember, I wrote an answer regarding this and I believe it's still on the Q and A's. I did say the first step is to acknowledge the atrocities committed against the Indians before the healing can begin. Although I think this is just a simple bill, it's still very symbolic as most Americans who grew up never learning the true history of the Turtle Islands... which the real name for the America. With films like Into the West, many more folks got a glimpse of what really happened. It was not a happy ending but somehow against all odds, Indians have survived and their way of life although is different nowadays, they are still holding on to our traditions and stories. I have waited for this day for a long time as I am sure many elders have to. The time of change is upon us. My film with Old Bear will reflect many of the changes that awaits us all as a race. I wish all of my Native brothers and Sisters a happy and free future.
The truth shall set you free...
With all my heart
JT>
____________________________________________________
Linda K.
Feb 27th, 2008 - 3:13 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Jay,
It is about time that Congress started treating the Native American with respect. I am not Native American and I hope that you don't hold it against me but I have the up most respect for Native Americans and their traditions. It was so sad that the Native Americans were torn away from their homelands and given very little food and shelter to survive back in those days, but they always held their heads up high and kept their traditions going.
Yes, it is true that the truth will set you free.
Thank you for sharing this with us.
Take Care!
Your Friend
Linda K.
Louisville KY
____________________________________________________
Shay
Feb 27th, 2008 - 5:14 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hi Jay, that is awesome news, a long time coming but the fact that it has finally happened is what is most important. You are so right in regards to the acknowledgement of wrong doing and apologizing for it, that is the first step of the healing process. I pray this will the beginning of even greater things for all American Indians and eventually all people, that we learn to work together and treat each other with unconditional love and respect and make this a better world for everyone.
Shay
____________________________________________________
Running Red Fox (Forum Hostess)
Feb 27th, 2008 - 5:10 AM A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hello Jay, Thank you for sharing this information.
This is indeed a historical day for us all and as the saying goes "A Giant Step for Mankind."
I celebrate this step with you and everyone while looking forward to the healing process and respectful relationships between the American society and our Native Nations.
Peace
&
Love
RRF
Forum Hostess
____________________________________________________
Alison
Feb 27th, 2008 - 7:51 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
A step in the right direction but what I want to know is why, if this is such a big deal, I hadn't heard anything about it til now. I pay attention to the news and this is a first for me. If it hadn't been for Jay I probably never would've heard of this. Now, if only Australia would follow suit and do what it can to make amends to the aboriginal people there might actually be hope for this sad, dark world. Think now the government will make the correct changes to its history books and kids will learn the truth in school?
www.xanga.com/mcdaniel37
____________________________________________________
Julie3002
Feb 27th, 2008 - 8:35 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
It is good news and has been a long time coming! They have endured much and continue to stand as a strong and beautiful people despite it all. Thank you for the information Jay and I look forward to your new film with Old Bear.
(Ali-Kat, I agree with you 100%. Let's hope someone listens and does the same for our Aboriginal brothers and sisters.)
Love ya'll
Julie
____________________________________________________
Seania
Feb 27th, 2008 - 9:44 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thank you Jay for the update. And yes, I agree, "The truth shall set you free." Indeed.
As for the apology, I think it is great that is has finally been offered. But it will only be as good, if those that it is offered too, will 'forgive'. And unfortunately, that comes down to each individual. And I pray that each can forgive and go forth to make a better place & continue to mend relationships. Learn from the past in order to make tomorrow better. Definitely, a big step.
I also agree with Ali-girl. Why haven't we heard this in the news? Here is a brief mention of it a couple of days ago: www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096416684.
The only thing I can find is an amendment to the American Indian & Alaska Natives Health Care....
seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/352846_healthcare27.html &
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/26/AR2008022601261.html
In the end, I'm all for better and healthier living styles . . .
____________________________________________________
Turquoise
Feb 27th, 2008 - 10:38 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
This is a wonderful news! I celebrate this with all my heart with all Natives even though I am not a Native American. It is definitely a start to a healing process.
I am with Alison: why there isn't a good cover about this on the news? BTW Australia very recently apologized the Aborigines as well (I think in early February?). When I read that news I was hoping this might be a good example for America and I guess it did become a good example.
I really hope that they improve the living conditions in the rez as you said Jay. This is really a good start. Thanks for letting us know.
T.
____________________________________________________
Blue Angel
Feb 27th, 2008 - 1:00 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Finally, a very positive and big step forward to hopefully a better and brighter future for the American Natives/Indians some day.
It was about time and long, long overdue.
Please keep us Europeans informed about the progress and what it will mean for all American Natives/Indians still living on reservations and all the others living outside the reservations.
Doncaster
www.myspace.com/fourtysomethingwotsit
____________________________________________________
Sissy
Feb 27th, 2008 - 9:29 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
That is absolutely awesome news. It has been too long in coming but now that it is here, let the healing begin. Sometimes it's hard to forgive and mend relations but this looks like it's a start. Maybe now the Tribes will get some reparations for past wrongs(maybe that's naivete or wishful thinking on my part, there's always hoping).
Much love & peace,
Sissy
____________________________________________________
Summer Breeze
Feb 28th, 2008 - 12:10 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thumbs Up.
____________________________________________________
rita pallada
Feb 29th, 2008 - 2:13 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
hello jay thanks for sharing it is about time finelly,they can never give back what they have taken from the native people,but it is a start, and it is so very important.and i pray for the future that it would be a better life for the native people,they have my respect
greetings
rita pallada
netherlands
____________________________________________________
Blackangel/Malaika
Feb 29th, 2008 - 4:18 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thank you for sharing this with us Jay! I must agree with others, I had not heard anything in the headlines but it does not surprise me. There has never been much fanfare when it comes to acknowledging the existence, treatment, and current struggles of indigenous people. I did read about Australia and their apology earlier this month and I was happy to see it. These are big steps and hopefully moves that are more than symbolic.
Davis, CA
www.myspace.com/blackangel250
____________________________________________________
Carol aka The Empress
Mar 1st, 2008 - 2:10 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
When I hear this news, I know that there's hope for America. Thanks for sharing Jay!
____________________________________________________
Donna Williams
Mar 2nd, 2008 - 2:35 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hadiyh Jay,
So'indgin? I pray that you, your family and loved ones are having a blessed day. Misiyh kyo for sharing this long awaited news. I am happy that the US Government has acted on their apologies to Native Americans in the US by writing their apologies in a bill. My initial reaction to this news is: I just wonder to what extent will USA's apologies translate into implementable programs and services for off-reserve Native Americans as well.
We are still waiting here in Canada for apologies for Canada's direct and indirect involvement in: residential schools; removal from our traditional territories also via residential schools, blood ratio=Status Indian, World War II, ownership and access to natural resources on traditional territories. FYI, the Chinese were apologized to for the Head Tax!
Another injustice faced locally are the families of Robert "Willy" Pickton victims. They will not have due process nor justice because BCs AG Wally Oppal's decision to not having a second trial for these remaining murders. Some of these women were from my community. I cannot imagine what their families are going through! Too many injustices legally sanctioned to save tax dollars! Sure Pickton is not going to get out of jail! He is also not going to be tried for murders that he committed!
I just stopped by to say hello, Jay, and in my research on Canada's apologies to First Nations, I found the Pickton decision. I am sooo very busy with my school work and life that I didn't get a chance to hear all the news on the Pickton trial.
I look forward to seeing your project with Old Bear.
Take care and God bless. Keep safe.
Laksilyu Woman
Canada
www.myspace.com/ndngurlmotown
____________________________________________________
lovablegypsy
Mar 3rd, 2008 - 6:39 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Thanks so much for sharing this news. I am happy to see this sign of progress, but still there is a long way to go
www.myspace.com/lovablegypsy
____________________________________________________
Christi
Mar 3rd, 2008 - 1:55 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hi Jay & to All,
A few weeks ago I read where the current president of Australia apologized to the Aboriginal peoples there, after his predecessor steadfastly refused to do so. The predecessor had said the present generation wasn't responsible for past atrocities. He was in denial of the fact that his generation had and still was benefiting from these acts. We have all benefitted from; an ancestor's suffering, an ancestor's accomplishments, or an ancestor's misdeeds, but for most of us it's all of these combined. If my father/mother or grandfathers/grandmothers committed a crime or injustice, and I could apologize, I would. I’ve worked with people who refuse to apologize to students even when they know something is our fault, and it always makes the client stay mad longer, and complain louder about poor customer service. Some people are just too arrogant to say sorry.
I also hope that congress keeps their word “this time”, and implements needed programs, after they ask the people what they want and need. Congratulations Jay, and all our American Indian brothers and sisters!
Christi
seven3_ad@yahoo.com
____________________________________________________
Thunderland
Mar 4th, 2008 - 12:42 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Australia doesn't have a President, Republics have Presidents, we are not a republic. Our leader is a Prime Minister, our head of state is Queen Elizabeth.
The previous Prime Minister served us well for 11 years. The current one is yet to prove himself. Saying sorry hasn't proven anything, it doesn't fix the water crisis, the raising interest rates and other issues.
____________________________________________________
Rosita
Mar 3rd, 2008 - 3:20 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read. I also would like to say I'm Sorry!!
I'm so thrilled to hear this news from Jay that the americans want to apologize for what they have done to the Native Americans. I do not know if it helps but I want to say that I’m sorry as well because dutch people have also hurt the Native Americans! I’m so so Sorry!!! If there wash anything that I could do to change that past, I would do that without second thought!!!
And I will say it again I’m so so Sorry…
This Rose is from me to all the Native American people.
With Love, Rosita
Holland
____________________________________________________
Miss Davis - a.k.a. "Five Shrieks"
Mar 4th, 2008 - 2:16 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Wow. Awesome news indeed. This is a better late than never kind of thing, but I'm very glad to see the Govt own up to the mistreatment. This is a step in a good direction.
Miss Davis
____________________________________________________
Shay
Mar 5th, 2008 - 10:20 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Another Historic Moment
WASHINGTON - President Bush apologized Monday that the country waited decades to honor Master Sgt. Woodrow Wilson Keeble for his military valor in Korea, giving him the Medal of Honor more than 25 years after he died.
Keeble is the first full-blooded Sioux Indian to receive the nation’s highest military award. But it came almost six decades after he saved the lives of fellow soldiers. Keeble died in 1982.
“On behalf of our grateful nation, I deeply regret that this tribute comes decades too late,” Bush said at the White House medal ceremony. “Woody will never hold this medal in his hands or wear it on his uniform. He will never hear a president thank him for his heroism. He will never stand here to see the pride of his friends and loved ones, as I see in their eyes now.”
But, Bush said, there are things the nation can still do for Keeble, even all these years later.
“We can tell his story. We can honor his memory. And we can follow his lead, by showing all those who have followed him on the battlefield the same love and generosity of spirit that Woody showed his country every day,” the president said before a somber East Room audience that included three rows of Keeble’s family members.
'Soldiers watched in awe'
Fellow soldiers, family members and others have been pushing Congress and the White House for years to award Keeble the medal. They said the man known as “Chief,” a member of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux tribe, deserves the medal for his actions in Korea in 1951, when he saved the lives of other soldiers by taking out more than a dozen of their enemies on a steep hill, even though he himself was wounded.
“Soldiers watched in awe as Woody single-handedly took out one machine gun nest, and then another,” Bush said. “When Woody was through, all 16 enemy soldiers were dead, the hill was taken, and the Allies won the day.”
Pentagon officials had said the legal deadline had passed to award the medal to Keeble unless Congress specifically authorized it. Sens. Byron Dorgan and Kent Conrad, D-N.D.; Tim Johnson, D-S.D.; and John Thune, R-S.D., introduced legislation to award Keeble the medal, and it was signed by Bush last year.
Keeble was recommended twice for the medal in the 1950s but the applications were lost both times. He instead received the Distinguished Service Cross.
“Some blamed the bureaucracy for a shameful blunder,” Bush said. “Others suspected racism — Woody was a full-blooded Sioux Indian. Whatever the reason, the first Sioux to ever receive the Medal of Honor died without knowing it was his.”
'Woody never complained'
His friends felt he was cheated, Bush said, “yet Woody never complained. See, he believed America was the greatest nation on earth — even when it made mistakes.”
Seventeen members of Keeble’s family, along with soldiers who served with him, attended the ceremony. Keeble’s stepson, Russell Hawkins, accepted the award along with Keeble’s nephew. He said after the ceremony that he does not believe it was racism that delayed the honor.
“I think it was truly lost,” he said of the original recommendations. “I don’t think Woodrow would say it was discrimination. He didn’t see racial colors, he didn’t see racial barriers.”
Hawkins said the family has been pushing for the medal since the early 1970s.
Keeble, who was born in Waubay, S.D., moved to North Dakota as a child. He was also a veteran of World War II and received more than 30 citations, including four Purple Hearts.
Bush saluted Keeble for his military heroism, but also for his conduct in his personal life — pursuing a woman he loved, becoming “an everyday hero” in his community and maintaining cheerfulness — despite his own grief and physical suffering. The wounds he suffered in Korea would “haunt him the rest of his life” and strokes paralyzed his right side and took away his ability to speak, but he mowed lawns and gave money to down-and-out strangers.
“Those who knew Woody can tell countless stories like this — one of a great soldier who became a Good Samaritan,” the president said.
____________________________________________________
Running Red Fox (Forum Hostess)
Mar 6th, 2008 - 6:05 AM A Historic Day for us all... Another Historic Moment
Hello Shay, thank you for sharing this story.
Congratulations to the late Master Sgt. Woodrow Wilson Keeble, and to his family & friends. May he always be remembered
Blessings
RRF
Forum Hostess
____________________________________________________
Seania
Mar 6th, 2008 - 4:15 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
This is an awesome story Shay. Thank you for sharing it. I have not even seen or heard of it....that saddens my heart. So thank you again.
____________________________________________________
Rita Ann
Mar 6th, 2008 - 12:40 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
First of all, thanks Jay, for telling us about this way too long-awaited bill - in this case, better late than never, I guess, but still, why did it have to take so long??. Not surprisingly, I didn't hear about this particular bill at all in the news. In my opinion, as a result of this bill, what I would truly love to see, is our legislators re-examining the questionable land grabs, aka "treaties" made with the Indians and making restitution whenever possible.
The American Indians did not understand the European attitudes about land holding. The Indians assumed that they were only granting the visitors a place to sit down and use the land for a while. In American Indian culture, land was "used" by the community - it was not something that one owned either individually or collectively. As Crazy Horse said, "one does not sell the land that people walk on." The English principle of land ownership had no equivalent in American Indian culture. Most of the land "deals" were conducted with chiefs who had no real authority to make treaties. They would find an Indian with a claim to leadership no matter how small, help him build up his following among local Indians by giving him money and goods to distribute and provide him with military support from time to time when his claim to leadership was challenged by other Indians. Once this had been accomplished this Indian was established as the "lord of the lands" with the authority to sign away the lands of all the Indians in the area. The dealmakers would also confuse and seduce them with alcohol and take advantage of the cultural disarray which followed the breakdown of their cultures' ways by using alcohol to "ease" the process of negotiations.
Then they would intimidate by armed force. Opportunities for such actions always followed "incidents" such as an act of violence by an individual or a small group of Indians. The troops would visit the Indian community and force a land concession or further compromise local Indian autonomy with additional regulations.
The Indians were also harassed with continual pressures from the private sector, for example: livestock was allowed to roam through Indian fields destroying crops; whites would begin to cut hay or wood on Indian land; and some even went so far as to plow, plant and even to settle on the edges of Indian land, testing boundary definitions which were always very vaguely defined in the deeds.
Then they would force the Indians into debt and take land as "payment". A favorite strategy in the eastern states was to impose fines for a long list of offenses which ranged from individual acts of violence to the observation of native religious ceremonies. When these fines could not be paid, then their land was seized for the "offenses".
Second, thanks, Shay, for posting the article about a true hero, Woodrow Wilson Keeble. I have been following this remarkable man's story very closely in the news. Here's a link that contains a transcript of Mr. Keeble's award ceremony in the White House. It's VERY moving. Check it out, everyone.
www.nysun.com/article/72344
If anyone deserves a movie made about his life, this man does. Who should play the part of Woody Keeble? Our very own Chief Jay Tavare, of course. How about it, Jay - and fellow Jaybirds, whadaya say?
Rita Ann
rraffanti@excite.com
____________________________________________________
Rachel Livingston from Pennsylvania
Mar 26th, 2008 - 5:47 AM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Jay I watched "burry my heart at wounded knee",I don't remember ever crying so hard at the end of a movie.And ever since I've been obsessed w/the Native American experience(flims,books,art...).
My name is Rachel (23yr.old)and I can trace my ancestry back to Robert R. Livingston.He served in the continental congress and was one of the five drafters of the Declaration of Independence.I used to be so proud of this and this country.But there is so much hate & Murder in the making of it that i'm looking at it all differently.I'm haunted by it and fell so guilty.
I'm so so sorry for the way your people were treated and are still treated.
How can you forgive?have you?
Do you believe in this Gov. at all?
And do you plan on endorsing any 2008 presidential candidate?
PS- I saw you in "into the west" and became a fan in reading the Q&A's on this site.You are such a beautiful soul no suprise that it radiates to the outside.
Just another loving fan, hugs and kiss,Rachel Livingston
____________________________________________________
Running Red Fox (Forum Hostess)
Mar 26th, 2008 - 9:44 AM A Historic Day for us all... Hi Rachel L.
Hello & welcome, Rachel Livingston from Pennsylvania.
It's nice to see that you have read thru the Q&As. Jay's words have touched many.
Thank you for stopping by and sharing your feelings on this issue. Congratulations on tracing your ancestry.
Please feel free to post more often
RRF
Forum Hostess
____________________________________________________
Christi
Mar 27th, 2008 - 5:41 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
Hi Rachel Livingston, Welcome
There is no need for you to be ashamed, or feel guilty, as even these emotions can turn to resentment for some. As I mentioned above "We have all benefitted from; an ancestor's suffering, an ancestor's accomplishments, or an ancestor's misdeeds, but for most of us it's all of these combined." If you could go back far enough you'd probably come across ancestors who were invaders and the conquered, slaves and slavers, pesants and nobels, saints and siners. History is to learn from, and not to punish your self with, and you should never be ashamed of who you are, or where you come from.
Christi
____________________________________________________
Christi
Mar 27th, 2008 - 5:44 PM Re: A Historic Day for us all... Please read.
p.s. to Rachel,
WOW, the Declaration of Independence! That maybe the 3rd, or 2nd most important document ever written in the world.