Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Hawaii
“I was so pleased to learn of … a commitment of resources that would be dedicated to ensuring that all of these aspects of the expression by Native people of their natural gifts and talents could be afforded an environment in which to grow … so I write to convey my strong endorsement for your efforts and to offer you my assistance …”
“These gifts demonstrate strong tribal interest in creating a powerful funding engine for protecting and preserving Native art and culture—the very cornerstones of tribal sovereignty. A foundation of this nature will help reverse the long history of government suppression of Native culture done as part of the United States' assimilation program. Through gifts of this nature, Indian Country can direct its resources to protect what is closest to home to all Indian tribes—our own cultures."
