Senate Majority Leader Michael S. Sanchez (D-29-Bernalillo & Valencia) issued the following statement regarding the Joint Session of the Legislature for American Indian Day held earlier today:
“I was disappointed that Native American leaders from sovereign nations were not given an opportunity to speak during today’s joint session. That has long been the practice on American Indian Day. Many believe the departure from that to be disrespectful and unprecedented. In my years in the Legislature, this is the first time I can remember that these leaders were not allowed to speak or take an active role in the celebration. After all, this day was established to honor them and their culture. I will be extending an invitation to Native American leaders to join the Senate in recognition of their contributions to our state.”