RPNM News:

ALBUQUERQUE — Today marks the beginning of National Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the culture, achievements and contributions Native Americans make each day in New Mexico and around the nation.
 
The Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) honors these valued communities that help make up the fabric of New Mexico society. Strong and proud, Native Americans and tribal communities enrich the state and lives with their history, traditions and treasured culture.
 
Native Americans continue to thrive and play a critical role in the state despite a long history of hardships.
 
RPNM also pays tribute to Native Americans for their service to the country and the sacrifices they have made in defending public freedoms throughout history.
 
Pastor Robert Tso of Victory Life Church in Shiprock, N.M., is a member of the Navajo Nation and serves on the Republican Party of New Mexico Executive Committee.
 
Tso issued the following statement on the start of National Native American Heritage Month:
 
“Native Americans continue to be a proud, strong people. We are a resilient people whose strengths lie in our vibrant communities. When I think of Native Americans throughout history, the word “overcomers” comes to mind. For the Navajo, it’s the Long Walk; for the Sioux, the Massacre of Wounded Knee; for the Oklahoma Tribes, it’s the Trail of Tears. There have been many generations that have dealt with trauma–most recently tribes dealing with COVID 19, and the First Nations are still trying to overcome that. Native American men and women have served in the Armed Forces, receiving Medals of Honor, Silver Stars, Purple Hearts and Bronze Stars. They have been MIAs, POWs and KIAs. We are also proud of our Navajo Code Talkers and our men and women who served in World War II. As for First Nations, there are still many challenges ahead such as poverty, substance abuse and lack of self-esteem, but we will overcome through God, Family and Freedom. For all these reasons, it’s so important to acknowledge Native Americans and their vital communities.”