Summary
The National Congress of American Indians criticized a Pentagon decision to keep medals awarded to US soldiers involved in the 1890 Wounded Knee Massacre. The review panel recommended not revoking the medals, and the decision is now final. The massacre marked a significant event in Native American history.
Key Facts
- The National Congress of American Indians disapproved of the Pentagon's decision to keep medals for soldiers from the 1890 Wounded Knee Massacre.
- The Pentagon review panel advised keeping the medals, and the current decision is conclusive.
- The Wounded Knee Massacre saw US soldiers kill over 300 Lakota Sioux people, including men, women, and children.
- The incident marked the end of the Indian Wars, during which Native Americans lost land and were moved to reservations.
- In 1990, Congress formally expressed regret for the Wounded Knee Massacre.
- Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of Defense, supported keeping the medals, stating they are deserved.
- The previous defense chief was criticized for not making the same decision.
- The Pentagon has faced criticism for lessening focus on diversity and historical commemorations.
