FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 11, 2000
CONTACT: LINDA MACIAS/TIM SECHRIST (202) 225-6161

BACA PROPOSES NATIVE AMERICAN EDUCATION RESOLUTION

Presents Original Resolution to Chairman of San Manual Tribe

WASHINGTON - Deron Marquez, Chairman of San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, was presented with an original copy of a Congressional resolution being sponsored by Rep. Joe Baca (D-Rialto) that seeks to promote awareness of Native American history and culture.

Baca's resolution would place the U.S. House of Representatives on record in support of having schools across the Nation teach about the role of Native American Indians in American history and culture and lead community service projects and programs that further the understanding of Native Americans.

"I was proud to provide Deron Marquez with the first copy of my resolution," Baca said. "America needs to do a much better job teaching current and future generations about the first citizens of our land. This resolution represents an important first step in raising awareness and understanding about the very first Americans."

"Little is known about Native Americans," Marquez said. "This resolution provides the tools to help educate young Americans and those who may still be ill-informed about Native American history and culture."

Baca's resolution, H. Res. 487, has been referred to the House Education and Workforce Committee for consideration.

"I fully intend to work hard at pushing this resolution through Congress," Baca said. "I want to do more to increase the awareness and understanding of Native Americans in classrooms and communities all across America."

Marquez was in Washington as the guest of the Congressman for a Capitol Hill business summit sponsored by Democratic members of the House.

"This summit was very useful for us," Marquez said. "We gained firsthand knowledge and established contacts, and learned about increased opportunities for exporting."