100 signatures reached
To: Congress
Justice for Native Peoples
The year 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the settlement of Plymouth Colony. Thanksgiving Day is a major American holiday.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, members of Congress are asked to do two things before Thanksgiving Day.
First: Congress should provide adequate support to American Indians and Alaskan natives during the coronavirus pandemic and during the recovery phase that will follow the pandemic. Congress should support tribal self-government, it should do its best to reduce poverty, and it should protect tribal lands.
Second: The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation Reaffirmation Act has been proposed in Congress. Because of the 400th anniversary of the Plymouth Colony settlement, Congress should make a special effort to defend the Mashpee Wampanoag. The tribe helped the Pilgrims as the newcomers struggled with hunger and disease in 1620-21. Congress should keep tribal lands in a trust arrangement that can be supported by the tribal government.
Why is this important?
American Indians and Alaskan natives are among the most impoverished and marginalized groups in the United States. Their tribes have often been decimated by the spread of infectious diseases. The coronavirus has caused major problems for indigenous peoples. Because of treaties, the Federal government is responsible for protecting the health and safety of American Indians and Alaskan natives. The year 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the establishment of Plymouth Colony. What do Americans want to celebrate on Thanksgiving Day?