The following is the opinion of Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota).

Each year, people gather across the state on Native American Day to celebrate the rich traditions and culture of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota people. From dancing to educational speakers, the events celebrated on this day are reminders of the many contributions Native Americans have made and continue to make to our state’s history and culture.

Since 1990, the second Monday in October in South Dakota has been recognized as a way to celebrate the important roles of Native Americans in our nation. Our country’s history and way of life have been uniquely shaped by the influence of native people. From the foods that we eat, to the medicines we use, many of the things we take for granted in our daily life were shared with us from Native American tribes. It is important to honor the Native heritage, culture, and language that lives on, passed from generation to generation, across the state and in our tribal communities.

Improving education, access to health care, and economic opportunity are challenges we continue to face in Indian country. During my time in Congress, and over the last year, I have spent time on our reservations meeting with leaders, talking with students, and visiting programs and businesses seeing first hand both the successes we have achieved and the challenges we continue to face.

As a United States Senator, I have had the opportunity to help advance legislation that helps to combat these challenges on our reservations through the passage of laws such as the Indian Health Care Improvement Act and the Tribal Law and Order Act. While much work remains to be done, I am committed to working with tribal leaders to stimulate economic growth, increase public safety, and improve the quality and access to education and health care on our reservations.

Native American Day is an opportunity for all South Dakotans to reflect on the importance of tribal history and culture to our state. Every American deserves to live in a safe, healthy, and prosperous community, and together we can work to make that a reality for all South Dakotans.