SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – It drew outrage in May when a Farmington High School grad was told to remove a graduation cap adorned with Native American beads. Now, some state senators are pushing a new law to keep school administrators from doing it again. The bill would codify in state law, that Native American students in public schools can wear tribal regalia at graduation ceremonies or public school events.
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“How disrespectful that was, in terms of those of us, and how we as native people look at an eagle plum. You know and what it represents,” said Senator Benny Shendo, (D- Jemez Pueblo).
It’s a video that still sparks intense emotions for some. A Farmington teen at a May graduation ceremony was told to replace her graduation cap because it was decorated. In this case, it was adorned with Native American beads and a feather.
Sen. Shendo is hoping a new state law can make a difference. His bill would make it explicitly legal for Native American students to wear regalia at school graduation ceremonies or events. A specific protection, he says, is needed after the Farmington incident. “It was kind of unfortunate, I felt almost ashamed that something like this would happen in the state of New Mexico where you know, particularly at a school where a large majority of those are native students,” said Sen. Shendo.
In committee on Tuesday, students and Pueblo leaders showed support.
“Our traditional clothing is our strength; it helps us find our connection back to our ancestors and community. Our traditional clothing tells our story,” said Alicia Kreese, bill supporter.
“Senate bill 163 will allow our Indigenous students to wear their regalia at school ceremonies without the fear of being denied participation or being punished,” said Santiago, bill supporter.
Some lawmakers are worried the bill doesn’t clearly define what regalia would be allowed and could be misinterpreted to include offensive symbols. However, the bill passed with unanimous support. “I think us knowing what New Mexico is, I didn’t think we needed a law you know for our students to you know to present who they are at graduation but for these incidents, here we are today,” said Sen. Shendo.
The bill is expected to head to the Senate Education Committee next. Lawmakers also recommended that the bill include an emergency clause so that it would take effect before this year’s high school graduation ceremonies.