Pelosi Celebrates Opening of the National Museum of the American Indian

September 21, 2004

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today celebrating the opening of the new National Museum of the American Indian on the National Mall near the U.S. Capitol:

"The magnificent National Museum of the American Indian opens its doors today in our nation’s capital. Conceived and designed by Native Americans, the museum is breathtaking in its beauty and striking in its location on the National Mall near the U.S. Capitol. It is a fitting presentation to the nation and the world of the ancient, varied, and living cultures of the first human inhabitants of the Americas.

"Today, Native Americans and their friends from around the country have gathered here to celebrate the opening of the museum, participating in a glorious procession and gathering near the museum for the official opening ceremony. I join them in their celebration and encourage all Americans to honor their cultures, which have given so much to the world, their survival in the face of overwhelming adversity, and their renewal in the modern era.

"This opening day marks a new chapter in the story of the American Indian experience. During the creation of the museum, Native Americans participated at every step of the way to ensure that it would embody their views and be imbued with their spirit. The museum reflects the resurgence we see in Native American communities today.

"Native Americans must be full partners in all endeavors that affect their lives and lands. Democrats are committed to the twin pillars of our nation’s relationship with Native American tribes: upholding sovereignty and fulfilling our 'trust' responsibilities. We must always honor tribal sovereignty and make sure that every congressional action that affects tribes reflects the government-to-government relationship between the federal government and the Indian tribes. We must also honor our nation’s 'trust' responsibility to manage the Indian land, money, and resources that the U.S. government holds in the way that will benefit Native Americans the most.

"Democrats pledge to work hand in hand with Native Americans to improve health, education, and economic development in Indian Country. We must respect Native American views and vision. As with the creation of the museum, the results can only be successful if Native Americans are full partners in crafting solutions and laying the groundwork for health, prosperity, and cultural renewal."

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