SHAWNEE TRIBE CHIEF BEN BARNES SHAWNEE STATEMENT ON COMMITTEE VOTE ON TRUTH AND HEALING COMMISSION ON INDIAN BOARDING SCHOOL POLICIES ACT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: media@shawnee-tribe.com

In response to today’s vote by the House Education and Workforce Committee on the “Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act of 2024” (H.R. 7227), Chief Ben Barnes of the federally recognized Shawnee Tribe made the following statement:

“We are deeply grateful to the Committee for passing the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act. For 150 years, the United States carried out policies that aimed to destroy Native American languages, cultures, and families through federally operated and funded boarding schools. It is crucial that we remember and honor the sacrifices of those affected by these policies so that future generations may learn the lessons of this historical period and current generations may find healing through understanding. We thank Chairwoman Foxx and Ranking Member Scott for their leadership and urge swift bipartisan approval in the full House.”

###

Back

More News

Feb 5, 2026

RECYCLING SPOTLIGHT: HOW TO RECYCLE CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Did you know that the average US Citizen throws away an average of 70 lbs. of clothing annually? The fashion industry is a major contributor to global pollution, generating about 10% of annual CO₂ emissions. Reusing, donating, or recycling clothing helps reduce its environmental impact. Clean Out Your Closet—Responsibly Finished cleaning out your closet and […]

Read More
Feb 5, 2026

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: JENEAN PERRYMAN

Hello! My name is Jenean Perryman, and I’m so grateful to join the Shawnee Tribe as the Education Outreach and Special Projects Director. I’m honored to be part of this community and appreciate the opportunity to work alongside tribal youth, families, and our education partners. I am a citizen of the Choctaw Nation – Halito […]

Read More
Feb 5, 2026

FEBRUARY IS DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

The Shawnee Tribe’s Behavioral Health Program is providing information in February for Dating Violence Awareness Month. This is a time dedicated to raising awareness about a serious issue that impacts people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Dating violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to gain power and control over a partner in […]

Read More
Feb 5, 2026

THE OKLAHOMAN GUEST COLUMNIST CHIEF BARNES: OKLAHOMA TRIBES ARE STRONGER TOGETHER

On December 24, 2025, The Oklahoman published Chief Ben Barnes’ op-ed on important priorities for the state in 2026. As Oklahoma prepares for an election year and the 250th anniversary of the United States, this is a fitting moment to reflect on who we are as a state and what kind of future we want […]

Read More
Jan 7, 2026

HOUSING DEPARTMENT MOVES LOCATIONS

The Housing Department is moving! Housing is now located at 1525 A St NE, Miami OK 74354. Directly behind (East) of the Sonic Restaurant.  * As with the previous location (at the Headquarters building) please press the button to be let inside. DOWNLOAD directions to the new location from the headquarters building.

Read More
Dec 22, 2025

JANUARY IS STALKING AWARENESS MONTH

The Shawnee Tribe’s Behavioral Health Program is providing information in January for Stalking Awareness Month. Stalking is a serious and often misunderstood form of victimization. It involves a pattern of behaviors that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or experience significant emotional distress. Stalking is not rare, and it is not […]

Read More
Dec 22, 2025

RECYCLING SPOTLIGHT: WHAT TIRE RECYCLING IS

Tire recycling (or rubber recycling) is the process of collecting worn-out tires and reprocessing them into useful materials instead of letting them take up space in landfills. Because tires are durable and don’t break down easily, recycling them protects the environment, reduces fire risks, and eliminates potential mosquito-breeding sites in improperly disposed tire piles. Common […]

Read More
Dec 4, 2025

HEALING & TRAUMA: NAVIGATING TRIGGERS AROUND THE HOLIDAYS

For many people, the holiday season brings connection, celebration, and routine changes. But for survivors of domestic violence or past trauma, this time of year can also bring unexpected emotional challenges. Increased stress, family expectations, and sensory triggers can intensify anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. Holiday environments can activate the brain’s trauma pathways. Sensory […]

Read More
See All News