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JULY 28, 2000

Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colo) introduced a new bill that would designate 12,480 acres in Colorado a national historic site in order to commemorate the site of the 1864 Sand Creek massacre.

During the massacre, United States soldiers slaughtered Cheyenne and Arapaho men, women, and children who were flying the flag of peace. Col. John M. Chivington led the November 29 attack, which was condemmed by Congress.

"This legislation finally recognizes a shameful event in our country's history. It is based on scientific studies and makes it clear America has the strength and resolve to face its past and learn the painful lessons that come with intolerance," Campbell said on Thursday when he introduced the bill.

Campbell is Northern Cheyenne. Some of his ancestors were massacred at Sand Creekk.

The bill would require the government to purchase land for the historic site from willing, private landowners. As of this month, only one party has agreed to sell 1,500 acres for the monument.

Relevant Links:
The National Park Service, Sand Creek Massacre Project Study - www.nps.gov/planning/sand/sig.htm
The Sand Creek Massacre Site - www.kiowacountycolo.com/sand.htm
Senator Campbell - www.senate.gov/~campbell