Native peoples have lived in the land we now call New Mexico and the United States for thousands of years.
I am honored to work with the Pueblos and Tribes who call New Mexico home, and with Tribes all across Indian Country. As part of that work, I have been proud to lead legislation in the Senate to re-frame this national holiday as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
VIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich Indigenous Peoples’ Day Statement, October 14, 2024.
New Mexico is one of a growing number of states that already recognizes this change. And three years ago, President Biden became the first President to formally commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Re-framing this holiday is a powerful way for us to acknowledge and heal from painful history. It also inspires us to celebrate the enduring strength and resilience of Native people.
Today and every day, I am committed to uplifting Tribal communities and defending Tribal sovereignty and self-determination.