"On July 23, 2007, Sen. Daniel Inouye from Hawaii introduced Senate Bill 1852 and Rep. Joe Baca of California introduced House Resolution 3585 to establish on the American calendar a Native American Heritage Day, one day after Thanksgiving.

Why? It fits well; we were the first Native Americans on these lands called the United States. We helped Columbus and other Europeans survive in harsh winters with food such as corn, beans, squash, tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, etc.

The Oneida Indian Nation helped George Washington survive the harsh winter during the American Revolution with food and other needed supplies. Sacagawea, the young Indian woman, helped Lewis and Clark as they explored the West. Ely Parker, a Seneca Indian attorney, wrote the terms of the final Confederate surrender.

Think of the code talkers from the Navajo Nation who helped win World War II. The Pima Indian soldier who helped raise the U.S. flag on Mount Suribachi on Iwo Jima. Lori Piestewa, a Hopi Indian, the first woman to die in military action defending the United States in Iraq.

The American Indian tribes across these great lands helped as the pioneers moved across all corners of the beautiful land called America. And yes, it is true that we had many difficult times between Indian tribes, the federal government, military and pioneers, but it all worked out. We are One Nation under God working together for the good of all mankind!"

Get the Story:
Frank Suniga: Native Americans deserve day of recognition (The Salem Statesman Journal 7/19)