Gregorio Sablan: “The studies indicate that Native youth experience significantly more challenges in virtually every aspect of their…”

“The studies indicate that Native youth experience significantly more challenges in virtually every aspect of their development from birth to adolescence than any other population. Native infants experience higher infant mortality rates than those of other racial or ethnic groups. Native children are overrepresented in foster care, at more than 2.1 times the general population, and 37 percent of Native children live in poverty. Finally, it is most troubling that Native youth face a higher risk and rate of premature death than other youth. In fact, suicide is the second leading cause of death, 2.5 times the national rate, for Native youth in the 15 to 24 age group. We need to take a comprehensive look at the health and well-being of Native children and to find the root causes of and real solutions to the problems and issues that are leading to these disturbing trends. This is why I wholeheartedly support S. 246 and the establishment of the Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Children. The commission will be comprised of experts in the areas of juvenile justice, social work, education, and mental and physical health, working alongside a Native advisory committee composed of Native tribal representatives.…”