Correspondences on the Treatment of Navajo Students in Shiprock, New Mexico: 1971, 1971-01-01 - 1971-12-31

Item — Box: 235, Folder: 14

Identifier: CAC_CC_026_1_235_14_014

Scope and Contents

The letter is from Senator Fred Harris to Mrs. Norma Ruth Harvey regarding the treatment of Indian students at the public school in Shiprock, New Mexico. The Department of the Interior has responded, stating that a petition was circulated by students, leading to a meeting with parents and tribal leaders. A Navajo legal aid organization has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the students, which is pending in Federal Court. Mrs. Harvey had previously contacted Senator Harris about discrimination against Navajo students by white teachers at the school. The letter details instances of harassment, threats, intimidation, and physical abuse towards Navajo students. Mrs. Harvey is willing to provide testimony under oath and has faced accusations from local authorities. The situation is described as a reaction to "Navajo Power" and a paranoid persecution of Navajo students.

Dates

Creation: 1971-01-01 - 1971-12-31

Creator

From the Collection: Harris, Fred R., 32nd Chair of the Democratic National Committee (1969-1970); United States Senator from Oklahoma (1964-1973), 1930- (Person)

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