SENATE MEMORIAL 19

47th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2006

INTRODUCED BY

Leonard Tsosie

A MEMORIAL

RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTION OF THREE IMPORTANT NEW MEXICANS TO THE CULTURE AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF ALL NEW MEXICANS.

     WHEREAS, the state of New Mexico and its citizens lost three important New Mexicans in recent months; and

     WHEREAS, Dyan Jojola, a member of the Isleta pueblo who passed away at age fifty in August 2005, worked tirelessly on Native American education issues, implementing literacy programs, speaking out on environmental issues and breaking down the digital divide for which she was honored posthumously with a New Mexico distinguished public service award last year; and

     WHEREAS, R.C. Gorman, called the "Picasso of American Indian art" by The New York Times, who passed away at age seventy-four in November 2005, was considered by many to be the premier Native American artist whose simple and lyrical images attracted many collectors and admirers; and

     WHEREAS, Pablita Velarde, born and raised on the Santa Clara pueblo, who passed away at age eighty-seven in January 2006, was one of the first Native American painters who became famous for her images of Native Americans in ceremonial poses and the paintings and murals she created at Bandelier national monument as part of the Works Progress Administration; and

     WHEREAS, Native American artists who incorporate elements of their native heritage, traditions and culture in their art have been extremely important in bringing world attention to the American southwest and tribal populations; and

     WHEREAS, each of these individuals has played a significant role in increasing appreciation of the value and beauty of cultural diversity in our lives;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that Dyan Jojola, R.C. Gorman and Pablita Velarde be recognized for their contributions to their native state and the value and beauty of cultural diversity; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the families of Dyan Jojola, R.C. Gorman and Pablita Velarde.

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