The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution on Mar. 19 recognizing the leadership, resilience, and contributions of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women. The resolution was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Chairman of the committee.
The resolution was passed during Women’s History Month to honor Native women who have shaped communities across the country through their work in public service, education, culture, business, science, and the arts. The measure highlights the ongoing impact that Native women have had on American history and society.
“Native women have made incredible contributions to our communities and country, and this month, we celebrate and recognize their impacts on American history,” said Vice Chairman Schatz. “The Native Hawaiian women we commemorate in this resolution are among many more who deserve our recognition and gratitude year-round.”
Chairman Murkowski said: “Native women have always been leaders, guiding their families and strengthening communities across Alaska and throughout Indian Country. They are the bearers of language, culture, and tradition and remain the foundation of those communities. Through this resolution, we honor all Native women, including many from my home state of Alaska, such as Laura Beltz Wright, Mary Jane Fate, Katie John, and Elizabeth Peratrovich, who left lasting legacies through military service, civil rights advocacy, businesses, and the protection of Indigenous lands and traditions. During Women’s History Month, I thank my Senate colleagues for supporting our resolution recognizing Native women and their continued impact across America.”
A number of senators co-sponsored the resolution from both parties. The full text is available online.
The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs supports self-determination for Native American communities through policy development and oversight according to the official website (https://www.indian.senate.gov/). The committee oversees legislation related to education, health care and economic development for tribes as reported by its official website (https://www.indian.senate.gov/). It also addresses issues affecting Alaska Natives as well as other U.S. insular regions according to its official website (https://www.indian.senate.gov/). The committee influences federal policy regarding tribal sovereignty and self-governance as detailed on its official website (https://www.indian.senate.gov/), operates as a standing committee dedicated to these affairs (https://www.indian.senate.gov/), and became permanent in 1984 after originally forming in 1816 according to information provided by its official website (https://www.indian.senate.gov/).
The passage of this resolution reflects ongoing efforts within Congress to recognize the historical significance of Native women's roles in shaping both local communities and national policies.
