Native Americans, stand up

The other day when I read that Donald Trump and his supporters engaged in more racially demeaning behavior against Elizabeth Warren, of course I was appalled as were many others. Yet I wondered why it is that other politicians who would have us believe they are champions of fairness, equality and social justice for Native Americans haven’t stood up and declared that “enough is enough.”

Although appalling, Trump’s behavior is not nearly so frightening as those who, in positions of power, remain silent in the face of it. Perhaps it’s because they agree with Trump’s characterization of Elizabeth Warren or perhaps it’s because of their dislike of her that they choose not to defend her.

For years we Native Americans have objected to Daniel Snyder’s refusal to change the name of his football team, claiming that the self worth of our children is threatened. Yet in the face of this reprehensible behavior of this racist bully whose only qualification for leadership is that he’s a billionaire, we remain silent. Regardless of the reason and regardless of what we may think of Warren, we cannot afford silence, but need to stand up and make ourselves heard.

John Nicholas

Deer Park