Bill Designates Friday After Thanksgiving as Day of Tribute

Washington, DC – Yesterday, the United States Senate unanimously passed legislation introduced by Congressman Joe Baca (D-Rialto), to designate the Friday after Thanksgiving as Native American Heritage Day.  The Native American Heritage Day Act of 2009, H.J. Res. 40, encourages the establishment of a day to pay tribute to Native Americans for their many contributions to the United States.  
 
H.J. Res. 40 was passed by the House of Representatives last Tuesday, June 2, 2009.  It was then sent to the Senate, where it was passed by unanimous consent yesterday, June 9, 2009.  The bill will now move to President Obama’s desk for his signature into law.

“Native Americans have consistently enriched American culture throughout their proud history,” said Rep. Baca.  “I thank the Senate leadership, for taking swift action on my legislation.  It is important that we recognize the significant contributions of the Native American community, and ensure everyone is properly educated on their heritage and achievements.”

The Native American Heritage Day Act of 2009 encourages the people of the United States, as well as Federal, State, and local governments, and interested groups and organizations to observe the Friday after Thanksgiving as Native American Heritage Day.  Ceremonies and activities on that day will focus on the history, cultural legacy, language, and traditions of Native Americans.  The bill also encourages public elementary and secondary schools to enhance student understanding of Native Americans by providing classroom instruction focusing on their history, achievements, and contributions.

Last Congress, Rep. Baca sponsored legislation that passed the House and Senate and was signed into law by President Bush, creating Native American Heritage Day 2008.  Due to the unique parliamentary rules of Congress, legislation creating days of recognition must be reintroduced every session (two years).  As a state Assemblyman, Rep. Baca introduced the legislation that established the fourth Friday of September as Native American Day in California – which became state law in 1998. 

“Since my time in the California State Legislature, I have fought to ensure Native Americans receive the recognition they deserve,” continued Rep. Baca.  “I thank my good friend James Ramos, now Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, for standing with me from the beginning on this long journey to ensure the contributions of Native Americans are recognized and appreciated by all.  I am proud to carry this legislation creating a well-deserved day of recognition, and I urge President Obama to act quickly to sign the measure into law.”

The Native American Heritage Day Act of 2009 is supported by the National Indian Gaming Association and its 184 federally recognized member tribes throughout the nation.  Congressman Baca has been an active member of the Native American Caucus in the House of Representatives since first coming to Congress in 1999.