In the midst of the ongoing struggle against racial injustices in both Indian Country and the United States, and our continued marginalization and invisibility within our own lands, it is profoundly disheartening to witness yet another instance of flagrant disrespect directed at our Nation’s first peoples. During a recent conversation with a Texas reporter, Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), made an inflammatory remark about the newly selected Speaker of the House, wishing him luck in managing “this wild bunch of Indians over in the House.”
Such remarks are not only deeply offensive but also perpetuate a legacy of disrespect and disregard towards Indigenous communities, following centuries of federal action designed to eradicate Tribal Nations and assimilate our citizens. USET/USET SPF strongly denounces Senator Cornyn’s comparison of the U.S. House of Representatives to “wild Indians” and urges a sincere apology from the Senator. It is especially disconcerting that Senator Cornyn, who for over 20 years has represented a state with federally recognized Tribal Nations and Tribal citizens, would stoop to such an archaic and derogatory analogy, further exacerbating the historic and ongoing injustices faced by Tribal Nations.
The implication of such language extends far beyond mere words; it sustains a culture of discrimination and intolerance that our country has long been battling. It is imperative that leaders, especially those in positions of influence, exercise the utmost sensitivity and refrain from perpetuating harmful stereotypes that only serve to deepen existing wounds.
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Statement from Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas on Cornyn Remarks
(LIVINGSTON, TEXAS, Oct. 31, 2023) — Chairman Ricky Sylestine and the other members of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas Tribal Council released the following statement Tuesday in response to comments made last week by U.S. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas:
"We are aware that Senator John Cornyn recently referred to certain U.S. House members as 'wild Indians.' At this time in our country’s history, we are curious as to why Senator Cornyn would use this derogatory phrase. We would welcome any opportunity for him to explain why he thinks the verbiage he used was appropriate or necessary."
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