Assembly Concurrent Resolution
No. 35
CHAPTER 107
Relative to California Native American Heritage Month.
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Filed with
Secretary of State
September 09, 2013.
]
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
ACR 35, Alejo.
California Native American Heritage Month.
This measure would recognize the month of September every year as California Native American Heritage Month, would encourage Californians to participate in appropriate observances that celebrate and commemorate California Native Americans, and would applaud and encourage the observance of California Indian Nations for their outstanding contributions to this state.
Digest Key
Fiscal Committee:
NO WHEREAS, Native Americans were the first human inhabitants of the land that is now the great State of California; and
WHEREAS, California Native Americans have contributed and continue to contribute immeasurably to our state’s history, diversity, economy, and culture by distinguishing themselves as academics, entrepreneurs, and leaders throughout our state; and
WHEREAS, Prior to the European colonization of the Americas, the indigenous people of California thrived with a vibrant culture and society; and
WHEREAS, California Native Americans have preserved their rich heritage, which is among the world’s great cultural treasures, in the face of adversity; and
WHEREAS, California Native American heritage and culture is richly interwoven with California’s diverse social fabric; and
WHEREAS, Through their rich cultural traditions and proud ancestry, California Native Americans have made vital contributions to the strength and diversity of our society in such areas as law, medicine, business, education, and the United States Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, In spite of a tragic past, Native Americans have been generous citizens and proudly served in the United States Armed Forces for over 200 years, defending the security of our state and nation with their lives, including engaging in World War II and Operation Iraqi Freedom, with honor, determination, and distinction; and
WHEREAS, The work of Native American leaders has sought to bridge racial, socioeconomic, and environmental barriers by empowering and educating people in order to protect Native American culture and heritage for future generations; and
WHEREAS, California Native Americans have faced numerous barriers to business development, but have overcome those barriers to persevere and contribute to Native American communities throughout the state and country, and exemplify Native American entrepreneurship in such areas as economic development, the food service industry, health care, and banking finance; and
WHEREAS, California tribal governments today support more than 60,000 of our fellow citizens and contribute $7.5 billion to our shared economy; and
WHEREAS, California tribes have generously donated their time and millions of dollars each year for education, youth programs, health care services, and other essential social services that strengthen California; and
WHEREAS, California today is home to the largest population of Native Americans in the 50 states, including both the rebounding numbers of our native tribes and others drawn to the Golden State by its myriad attractions; and
WHEREAS, As we celebrate the contributions of Native Americans to the great State of California, let us recognize the success of tribal businesses and the rise of tribal members in all walks of life as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of our native peoples; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes the month of September every year as California Native American Heritage Month and encourages all Californians to participate in appropriate observances with activities that celebrate and commemorate California Native Americans as a symbol of hope and courage to all citizens; and be it further
Resolved, That this recognition applauds and encourages the observance of California Indian Nations for their outstanding contributions to this great state; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.