Biden to deliver apology to native Americans for boarding school atrocities

President Biden has decided to formally apologize to the Native American community for the historical injustices perpetrated during the era of federal Indian boarding schools. The apology, scheduled to take place in Arizona on Friday, marks a significant acknowledgment of the painful legacy left by these institutions.

“I’m heading to do something that should have been done a long time ago,” Biden stated to reporters before boarding Marine One on Thursday. “Make a formal apology to the Indian nations for the way we treated their children for so many years.”

The apology comes in the wake of a comprehensive federal investigation into the Indian boarding school system, led by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve in a Cabinet position. The investigation revealed that over 400 boarding schools operated for more than 150 years, where tens of thousands of Indigenous children, some as young as four, were forcibly removed from their families and communities.

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Speaking on Air Force One, Haaland expressed the personal weight of this moment, noting, “For decades, this terrible chapter was hidden from our history books. But now, our administration’s work will ensure that no one will ever forget.” She emphasized the pride of Indigenous Americans in their heritage and their contributions to the country, stating, “This is our home. We love this country. We have fought for this country, even before we were citizens, even before we could vote.”

Biden’s upcoming apology represents a critical acknowledgment from the highest levels of government regarding the systemic cruelties faced by Indigenous peoples. However, reactions from Native leaders highlight that words alone are insufficient for true reconciliation. Chase Iron Eyes, Director of the Lakota People’s Law Project, remarked, “An apology is an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, but it is not any form of redress… It calls for a deeper examination.”

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. praised the president’s forthcoming apology as a “profound moment for Native people across this country,” but underscored the need for meaningful action: “We know from experience that true healing goes beyond words — it requires action, resources, and commitment.”

Biden’s administration has taken steps to repair relations with Native American tribes, incorporating billions of dollars for infrastructure investments in Native communities through legislation such as the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As the nation awaits the president’s apology, many hope it will catalyze further dialogue and concrete measures to address the enduring impacts of colonial violence and facilitate healing within Indigenous communities.