PRESIDENT RICHARD NIXON SPECIAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS ON INDIAN AFFAIRS
(1970) QUOTE
The special relationship between Indians and the Federal government is the result instead of solemn obligations
which have been entered into by the United States Government. Down through the years, through written treaties and
through formal and informal agreements, our government has made specific commitments to the Indian people. For
their part, the Indians have often surrendered claims to vast tracts of land and have accepted life on government
reservations. In exchange, the government has agreed to provide community services such as health, education and
public safety, services which would presumably allow Indian communities to enjoy a standard of living comparable
to that of other Americans.
This goal, of course has never been achieved. But the special relationship between the Indian tribes and the
Federal government which arises from these agreements continue to carry immense moral and legal force. To
Terminate this relationship would be no more appropriate than to terminate the citizenship rights of any other
American.
(1970) QUOTE
The special relationship between Indians and the Federal government is the result instead of solemn obligations
which have been entered into by the United States Government. Down through the years, through written treaties and
through formal and informal agreements, our government has made specific commitments to the Indian people. For
their part, the Indians have often surrendered claims to vast tracts of land and have accepted life on government
reservations. In exchange, the government has agreed to provide community services such as health, education and
public safety, services which would presumably allow Indian communities to enjoy a standard of living comparable
to that of other Americans.
This goal, of course has never been achieved. But the special relationship between the Indian tribes and the
Federal government which arises from these agreements continue to carry immense moral and legal force. To
Terminate this relationship would be no more appropriate than to terminate the citizenship rights of any other
American.
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