In recognition of Native American Heritage Month, which begins today, DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement:

“This November, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month. From our earliest days to the present, the Native American community has made lasting contributions that have shaped our national identity.

“However, we must acknowledge that these contributions to our nation have come despite a difficult history sometimes fraught with violence and broken promises. We must learn from these mistakes and resolve to do better moving forward.

“I am proud of the unprecedented commitment that President Obama’s administration has made to the Native American community, including continued engagement with tribal leaders at the annual White House Tribal National Conference. Under President Obama, Democrats included more than $3 billion in funding for tribal communities in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, expanded access to quality, affordable health care through the Affordable Care Act, and ensured the inclusion of protections for Native American women in the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

“As we recognize Native American Heritage Month, it is an opportune time to remember that a celebration of the Native American community should not offend those we seek to honor. It is important to be mindful that the names and images we use not undermine our desire to draw strength from their values, embrace their traditions, and pay respect to their history.”