Albuquerque Indian School Cemetery Officially Recognized at 4H Park

Oct. 4, 2021

Resolution 21-205 has passed city council with a unanimous vote. Mayor Keller sent the resolution to Council following the recommendations of the Commission on American Indian and Alaska Native Affairs (CAIANA) and Native American stakeholders guiding the process to determine the future of the Albuquerque Indian School burial ground at 4-H park.

 “We are grateful for the guidance that our community and Pueblo and Tribal leaders have provided as we work to pay proper respect to this sacred space,” said Mayor Tim Keller.  “Today’s resolution marks another formal acknowledgement on behalf of the City of Albuquerque of the trauma that Indian boarding school policies have left over generations in Native American communities. We are committed to following their recommendations and to working collaboratively to address these histories of trauma and racism.” 

Since June of this year, the City has been seeking input and guidance from community stakeholders towards reconciliation and properly respecting the sacred burial site.

The resolution is expected to be signed by Mayor Keller with City Councilors on Indigenous People’s Day. Councilors Benton, Borrego, and Sena are sponsors of the resolution.

Last week, community and City leaders gathered to acknowledge the site and hear a formal apology from the City of Albuquerque given by Mayor Keller.

More information on the site and the collaborative process of determining next steps can be found here.