This November 2004, the five American Indian selections for recognition are: Johnnie Hernandez, Delphine Rose, Juana Majel, Paul Cuero and Carmen Lucas

The Mayor, Alcalde, Kuchutt of San Diego and his advisory Committee selected the month of November to recognize, celebrate and honor the history of Native Americans. It is by historical intent and purpose that Native American people were not recognized politically as citizens of the United States of America. Tribal people would, in the main, remain so until a special Congressional Citizenship law was passed in 1924. Even more astonishing is that the final ratification of the same U. S. Congress American Indian Citizenship bill would be held up from being made the law of the land by Western states with large Tribal populations and would not be ratified until 1948!

In mutual cooperation the Tribal Bands of: Santa Ysabel, Campo and Pauma graciously provided a sit down reception at the U.S. Grant Hotel. Jamul Village Tribal Elder Jane Dumas was called upon for the blessing in her Tipai/Kumeyaay language. It is truly a fine day in Americas finest City for the Honorees, their families and friends.

THEREFORE, the President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2001 as National American Indian Heritage Month. We call upon the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.

As we move into the 21st century, American Indians and Alaska Natives will play a vital role in maintaining our Nation's strength and prosperity. Almost half of America's Native American tribal leaders have served in the United States Armed Forces, following in the footsteps of their forebears who distinguished themselves during the World Wars and the conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf.

The Administration will continue to work with tribal governments on a sovereign-to-sovereign basis to provide Native Americans with new economic and educational opportunities. Indian education programs will remain a priority, so that no American child, including no Native American child, is left behind. We will protect and honor tribal sovereignty and help to stimulate economic development in reservation communities. We will work with the American Indians and Alaska Natives to preserve their freedoms, as they practice their religion and culture.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I, President of the U.S. of A have set my hand this twelfth day of November, in the year two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.