SANTA FE — Native American students in New Mexico moved one step closer to freely expressing their cultural heritage at graduation ceremonies after Senate Bill 163 cleared a crucial legislative hurdle in the House, drawing praise from tribal leaders and legislators across the state.
“Our department is happy to have brought forth this legislation in partnership with our sister agency and our legislative sponsors as this is an important victory for New Mexico’s Native students and their families,” Josett Monette, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department, said. “Graduation is a major milestone, and every student deserves the right to honor their culture and identity by wearing their regalia.”
Under this legislation, New Mexico school boards and charter school policies cannot prevent Native American students from wearing regalia that represents their cultures. New Mexico will join 18 other states with similar regalia laws protecting these rights for Native American students.
This legislation is monumental as Native American students in New Mexico have faced challenges and restrictions in wearing regalia and culturally significant clothing, accessories, and objects.
SB 163 unanimously passed through both the Senate and the House. The bill now moves to the governor’s desk for final approval, bringing New Mexico one step closer to ensuring that Native students can celebrate their heritage and achievements without barriers.
“Our cultural regalia is a right to our self expression and it’s a way we maintain our dignity and honor, our individual identities, our families, our communities, our tribes, our pueblos, and a way we express who we are and where we come from,” Rep. D. Wonda Johnson said. “And it pertains to our cultural, religious, and spiritual birth rights.”
Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico’s Public Education Department Marianna Padilla also showed her support for the bill.
“Senate Bill 163 is a powerful affirmation of the cultural heritage and identity of Native American students across New Mexico,” she said. “Every student deserves the right to celebrate their academic achievements while honoring their traditions. The passage of SB 163 ensures that tribal regalia is rightfully recognized and respected at graduation ceremonies, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity, and dignity for our Indigenous communities.”
