Statement by Howard Dean on National Native American Heritage Month
November 27, 2006
Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean today issued the following statement in celebration of National Native American Heritage Month:
"Today I join all Americans in celebrating National Native American Heritage Month. For centuries, Native Americans and American Indian tribes have been committed to the same values and priorities of the Democratic Party. Together, we have fought to protect our families and communities, educate all our children, protect our environment, expand access to health care for all our families, and provide care and services for children, the elderly, and the less fortunate. Our shared commitment to those principles is the foundation of the essential partnership between the Democratic Party and American Indians.
"Two weeks ago, Democratic candidates took those values to the American people, offering an agenda of hope and optimism for all Americans. The results of this historic election provide a new opportunity to once again provide Americans of all backgrounds a government that supports equality and opportunity for all and promotes full participation in our society.
"Ensuring full participation in our society begins with encouraging full participation in our political process, which is why Democrats are committed to organizing in American Indian communities and encouraging American Indian candidates across the country to run for office. I am proud that our Party's commitment to providing American Indians with more than a place at the table, but a place on the ticket has produced results. This month, dozens of strong Native American and American Indian candidates in states like Alaska, Oklahoma, Montana, South Dakota, Arizona, Washington State, South Dakota, and Wyoming won because they showed up, organized, and fought for what they believed.
"Today, as we mark National Native American Heritage Month, I congratulate these candidates and pledge that our party will continue to be the party that promises hope and opportunity for all Americans."
