The U.S. Senate has passed a resolution recognizing the heritage, culture and contributions of America Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian women.
Senate Resolution 444 was introduced by Senators Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, and Tom Udall, D-NM, to celebrate and call attention to the accomplishments of indigenous women nationwide.
Murkowski said it is important to specifically recognize these women for their unique contributions that helped shape the country.
“Alaska Native women have not only played an integral role in leading their communities forward – fighting to defend the sovereignty for Alaska’s tribal nations – but have also been a key factor in preserving their history, heritage and culture,” Murkowski said.
“The very first anti-discrimination law in the United States, the Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945, was signed into law 19 years before the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This was accomplished, in large part, because of a Tlingit woman named Elizabeth Peratrovich who spoke to assembled lawmakers arguing for equality.”
These women have shaped every aspect of the American experience and helped pave the way for the leaders, teachers, artists, professionals, activists, thinkers, scientists and public servants who continue to build on their proud legacy, Udall said.
“It should serve as a reminder to members of Congress that we must recommit ourselves to ensuring that all Native women have equal access to the resources and rights that many others take for granted,” Udall said. “Current and future generations of Native women deserve nothing less.”
