Biden Apologizes for Native Boarding School Abuses

President Joe Biden formally apologized for the U.S. government's role in operating abusive Native American boarding schools, acknowledging the generational trauma inflicted upon Native communities. Speaking at the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona, Biden described the policy as a 'sin on our soul' and emphasized its long overdue acknowledgment. His apology was interrupted by a heckler criticizing his support for Israel amid the Gaza conflict, highlighting ongoing tensions over U.S. foreign policy. The visit was part of Biden's efforts to solidify his legacy, particularly in battleground states like Arizona ahead of the November 5 election. U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American cabinet secretary, emotionally supported Biden's apology, reflecting on her family's personal history with the boarding school system. This apology follows similar acknowledgments in Canada and aims to advance reconciliation efforts with Native American communities.