Museum honors First Americans
Guest opinion by SEN. MIKE CRAPO
Sen. Mike Crapo, a Republican, is Idaho?s junior senator.
This week, the Smithsonian Institute made a significant step in our ongoing efforts to recognize and preserve our American heritage. The National Museum of the American Indian opened on the National Mall, taking its long overdue place next to other museums that document who we are as a nation.
Imagine combining many traditions and experiences, from the distant past to the present in one place, in order to best honor all the Native Nations; it was a daunting task, but W. Richard West, Jr., the museum?s director and a Native American himself, and many others met that challenge. The museum attests to a proud, ancient cultural tradition that is alive and as important today as it has ever been. The exhibits and educational outreach of the museum and its partner museums and research centers in Maryland and New York are an invaluable resource to educators, students of American history, and the public. This museum has particular significance to Idaho, as our state is home to multiple Native American Nations.
The legacy and contributions of Native American Nations in Idaho go far beyond now familiar names such as Kootenai, Shoshone, Bannock and Lemhi. Without the help of the Shoshone and Nez Perce, Lewis and Clark may have perished in the Idaho wilderness or at best turned back, failing in their quest to reach the Pacific Ocean. Considering the history and unique spiritual connection that Native Americans have always had to the land, water and sky, their leadership often makes the difference between success and failure in the collaborative management of many of today?s issues. While agreement on every point is not essential, tribal input is necessary to the collaborative process. We all share in the stewardship of our state?s natural resources and will continue to do so for generations. Challenges must be met with solutions that best suit all Idahoans, and these solutions are emerging across Idaho every day. Collaboration involves appreciating the path that others have walked to reach a particular place, and this museum provides a glimpse into the history of the first Americans. It is a fitting tribute to the Native American Nations and offers insight into the role they play today.
The new Museum and its outreach efforts will enrich our knowledge and appreciation of this portion of our nation?s history and the ongoing contributions of Native Americans. I recommend a visit to this incredible place if you or your family are in Washington, D.C. For those who won?t be in Washington, D.C., anytime soon, my November Capitol Watch program will feature Director West and footage of the new museum. For information on viewing this cable program on Tuesday, Nov. 9, in your area, please visit my Web site at www.crapo.senate.gov, or contact any of my offices. The museum Web site is www.americanindian.si.edu.
