GOP Rep. Paul Gosar Calls Native Americans 'Wards Of The Federal Government'

[Lakhota]

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Paul Gosar's reference to American Indians as "wards of the federal government" has struck a harsh chord with tribal members and legal experts in the days following a discussion about a controversial Arizona land deal that would make way for the country's largest copper mine.

The Arizona Republican was responding to concerns from Phil Stago of the White Mountain Apache Tribe when he made the comment that stunned people at the round-table talk.

Stago said the phrase is antiquated and ignores advances made in tribes managing their own affairs and seeking equal representation when it comes to projects proposed on land they consider sacred.

More: Rep. Paul Gosar Calls Native Americans Wards Of The Federal Government

Sad and unbelievable that any elected official would make such a public comment about Native Americans.

 

[Stephanie]

WHAT? the truth hurts?

they were for many years. didn't hear you bitching about it then

 

[Dont Taz Me Bro]

What did he say that was incorrect?

 

[TheOldSchool]

Native Americans need to arm themselves to get ready to put down a lot of republicans when they come for their land.

 

[Dot Com]

is this true Katzndogz tinydancer ???

 

[TheOldSchool]

is this true Katzndogz tinydancer ???

Katz is now Tipsycatlover

 

[blackhawk]

Did he say Redskins? If not stop your bitching.

 

[LordBrownTrout]

Theyre a bunch of drunks. They need to get off their lazy ass and fight the govt.

 

[tinydancer]

is this true Katzndogz tinydancer ???

Taken in context Gosnar was pointing out a painful truth in regards to this negotiation regarding the land in Tonto National Forest.

Stago threw down the gauntlet first by claiming that this business proposal was an insult to First Nations sovereign rights when they have absolutely no claim to the territory that is being discussed with the mining company.

If one wanted to be callous basically the Apache First Nations have no right to be at the table in these discussions.

They should consider themselves fortunate to be included and have their voices heard.

This so called "insult" is much ado about nothing.