Political Quotes

“The Little Shell is also unique, and all 12 of Montana's Indian Tribes on our seven Indian reservations also support its recognition. The Little Shell also has the support of the entire Montana delegation. It has the support of our Governor, and it has the support of our Attorney General. Here are their letters. In fact, Federal recognition of the Little Shell has enjoyed support from the congressional delegation and our State's Governors since the 1930s and 1940s when our country first began to federally recognize Indian Tribes. The American Indian Policy Review Commission, from later in 1977, also recognized its plight as a distinct entity. There are more documents for the Record. Clearly, the record has existed in support of this Tribe's Federal recognition. I remember, during my time in the House, looking at what it had been going through--literally, stacks and stacks of paperwork--in following a process. There is, indeed, longstanding evidence supporting its recognition, and I strongly disagree with my colleague's objection. The Little Shell Tribe has seen lifetimes--not a lifetime but lifetimes--of neglect from our Federal Government. I had hoped we could finally deliver its recognition here today. We are just one vote short in the Senate. I will not stop pushing for our government to rectify this injustice. I thank the Presiding Officer. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Iowa. ____________________”