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Minutes for HB2498 - Committee on Federal and State Affairs
Short Title
Prohibiting governmental entities from prohibiting the wearing of tribal regalia and objects of cultural significance at public events.
Minutes Content for Thu, Feb 1, 2018
Chairperson Barker opened the hearing on HB2498. Jason Long, Revisor, gave an overview of the bill (Attachment 1). In response to a question by Representative Miller, Mr. Long stated that this bill would apply to everyone, not just Native Americans.
Chairperson Barker recognized Representative Les Osterman as a proponent of HB2498 (Attachment 2). Representative Osterman stated he is a Rosebud Sioux from South Dakota. Their ceremonies mean a lot to them. When an individual graduates from high school, they are given an eagle feather by their parent, grandparent or close family member during a special ceremony to signify that accomplishment. These feathers are a sign of accomplishment and pride. A lot of places will not allow Native Americans to wear their feathers at graduations. The law needs to be changed.
Chairperson Barker recognized Representative Ponca-We Victors who testified as a proponent on HB2498 (Attachment 3). This bill addresses a Native American's right to wear tribal regalia and objects of cultural significance during times of importance. Their traditional clothing is called regalia, not costumes. They consider the regalia their best suit and proudly wear it during special times. Eagle feathers and the regalia are a part of their religion and are an extension of themselves like a body part, such as an arm. Prohibiting Native Americans from wearing their regalia is a direct contradiction to the First Amendment and the Declaration of Independence. This same legislation was passed last year in Montana. Questions were asked by Chairperson Barker and Representatives Highland, Rafie, Smith, Clayton, and Ruiz.
Carole Cadue-Blackwood was recognized by Chairperson Barker as a proponent of HB2498 (Attachment 4). She is a member of the Kickapoo Tribe. Graduation ceremonies are a huge milestone in a child's life, and even more so for Native American students. Allowing these students to wear their traditional regalia and objects of cultural significance at graduation ceremonies will enable them to showcase and take pride in their culture and encourage younger students yet to graduate.
Chairperson Barker recognized Georgia Blackwood as a proponent of HB2498 (Attachment 5). She is an eighth grader and a member of the Kickapoo Tribe. She lives in Lawrence where there is a large Native American population so wearing the regalia is not an issue there, but she is concerned that if she moves to another town that may not be allowed.
Sophia Suke then testified as a proponent (Attachment 6). Miss Suke spoke first in her native language. She stated that their regalia is part of who Native Americans are. She explained the significance of some of the different items of the regalia. They should be allowed to wear their regalia to be recognized and honored as the people they are.
Chairperson Barker recognized Liana Onnen as a proponent of HB2498 (Attachment 7). She stated that regarding cultural appropriation, one of the most ironic things is that a non-Native American can show up at many events dressed as a Native American, but a Native American who does so is told they cannot dress as a Native American. The epitome of hypocrisy is that it is acceptable for a person to dress up as a caricature Native American, while a Native American is told he cannot wear his native clothes. Representative Smith made a few comments and thanked everyone for appearing before the Committee.
Chairperson Barker noted that there was written proponent testimony from Maura Garcia (Attachment 8).
Representative Highland requested that the Revisor provide the Committee with a copy of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act.
Seeing no other conferees, the hearing on HB2498 was closed.
Chairperson Barker opened the floor for requests for bill introductions. Representative Highland requested a bill regarding the open records act as it relates to the unlawful use of names derived from public records. Seeing no objection, the request was approved.
There being no further business, Chairperson Barker adjourned the meeting at 9:50 a.m.
