Would the Apology Be Accepted?

[Diane Merkel]

A U.S. congressman has introduced a resolution that would offer an apology for and acknowledge abuses by the United States, and support better relations with American Indian nations.

Rep. Jo Ann Davis of Virginia introduced again a joint resolution in the House of Representatives Jan. 4 that would grant an apology from Congress to American Indians for numerous abuses committed against them.

''I believe that it is important for the United States to recognize the impact of the broken treaties and inhumane policies on the Native Americans,'' Davis said. ''As representatives of the U.S. government, Congress has a responsibility to maintain good relations with other nations, yet we have not maintained good relations with the Native American nations.''

The resolution lists treaty violations, ''extermination, termination, forced removal and relocation, the outlawing of traditional religions, and the destruction of sacred places'' as some of the mistreatment and policies against American Indians. However, the resolution does not authorize or serve as a settlement for any claim against the United States.

Article: www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096414482

[crzhrs]

The Lakota haven't accepted the Supreme Court's decision of compensation for the Black Hills. They want the land back . . . not the money.

So it may not be enough to say "sorry"

[clw]

Comparable legislation has been introduced more than once. It never goes anywhere. But yes, I think it would be accepted. Even Australia has done it, although they won't sanction the UN Resolution.