I would like to thank the Undergraduate Senate for passing a resolution recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day, in addition to the federal holiday Columbus Day. Members of Student Advocates for Native Communities (SANC) spoke in favor of the resolution during the senate's public comment period, and their words were strengthened with signatures from over 320 AU undergraduate students. These petition signatures helped SANC convey the importance of recognizing Native peoples on Columbus Day. We appreciate the support students gave to this important initiative.
SANC works to influence university policy on matters of importance to Native students and allies, to expose the campus community to Native cultures, and to educate students about the issues facing indigenous communities today. I am proud of our club's accomplishments and take pride in the way in which we conduct our activism and educational initiatives. I disapprove of the chalking that appeared on inappropriate locations around campus this week. SANC had no participation in these acts. Neither my co-president nor I know anything about these actions. Instead, SANC accomplishes its programming and activism through means that are within the policies and guidelines established by Student Activities.
SANC is in the process of organizing a wide variety of events during November's American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Heritage Month. I encourage the student body to attend these events. Currently, we have nine events confirmed, and they range from a musical performance, to a panel about the Indian gaming industry, to a presentation about the potential economic benefits wind energy poses to reservation communities.
During this week, I ask that the plea to recognize indigenous peoples is not met with intolerance and anger. Instead, I ask that students reflect on the devastating ramifications colonization had - and continues to have - on indigenous peoples. This week, I encourage students to acknowledge Native peoples and to celebrate the contributions they have made to our country.
Carrie Johnson, Senior, School of Public Affairs Co-President, Student Advocates for Native Communities
