U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, responded to President Joe Biden’s formal apology for the federal government’s Indian boarding school system, calling it an important step towards confronting the dark history of the policies. Schatz advocated for the passage of legislation to establish a federal commission to investigate and document the long-term impacts on Native communities. The legislation would also provide support for survivors and their descendants. President Biden issued the apology during a speech at the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona, following an investigation by the U.S. Department of Interior into the boarding school system.
Between 1819 and 1969, the federal government operated hundreds of Indian boarding schools across the country, resulting in the removal of Indigenous children from their families and the implementation of abusive practices. The investigation revealed that hundreds of children died in these schools, which used corporal punishment and sought to erase Indigenous culture, religion, and language.
Senator Schatz emphasized the need for Congress to take action and pass the legislation to acknowledge the historical injustices and provide justice and support for Native communities. He has been working with colleagues to move quickly on this issue. The apology and push for legislation highlight the ongoing efforts to address the lasting impacts of the Indian boarding school system on Native communities.
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