Carson O’Rourke
(Oglala Lakota)
Kile (Pine Ridge), SD
“The Indian boarding schools were terrible and tragic. Perhaps they believed they were doing the right thing. But the truth must be told. This problem cannot be solved—will never be solved—without knowing the truth. Many powerful institutions do not want to see this bill signed into law. We will not be silent forever.”
QunmiGu Kacey Hopson
(Native Village of Barrow)
Anchorage, AK
“Just about every Native I know has been shaped somehow by the Indian Boarding School Era. This bill can make a huge positive difference in their lives. America has a moral imperative to make this right. If nothing else, to own it.
I hope more groups of faith follow the Quaker leadership that I have witnessed here on this issue.”
Calvin Miller
(Native Village of Barrow)
Utqiagvik, AK
“I traveled here from a very small town North of the Arctic Circle. It is inspiring to see civic engagement in action. Really learn first-hand about democracy and lobbying on an issue of such importance to my area and I. Boarding schools were one large part of an overall campaign of violence. That can’t be ignored.”
Rogelio Meixueiro
(Xidza)
Dallas, TX
“There are tribes from all over here. There are even international tribes. To be in the same place as so many other Native people like me is awe inspiring. Our biggest obstacle right now is education—or the lack thereof. A lot of people are scared of the truth.”
Kristen Velasquez-Howe
(Southern Ute)
Reservation, CO
“I am here to put a face to this issue and this bill. I have close family members that are Indian Boarding Schools survivors. I know the impact they have had on so many people just like me. I carry it with me every day. I won’t let it remain hidden.”
Avery Hunter
Flint, MI
“If we don’t get the facts, if we don’t get the truth out, this pain and trauma will never be resolved. You can’t cover up facts forever. Wrongs need to be accounted for and atoned for. Kids were murdered. Families were torn apart. How would you feel if it happened to you and yours?”