U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) applauded the Rosebud Sioux Tribe for examining ways to prevent suicide during their Sacredness of Life Summit in Mission. Johnson said he has repeatedly fought to secure resources for Indian communities across the state to help deal with the suicide epidemic that plagues our reservations.
'Suicide is a preventable tragedy, and I commend the Rosebud Sioux Tribe for bringing attention to this issue and taking a look at the root cause of suicide,' said Johnson.
The two day event featured local stories on the effects of suicide as well as panel discussions examining the issue. Rodney Bordeaux, President of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, and Lionel Bordeaux, President of Sinte Gleska University, opened the summit on July 1. A representative addressed the gathering on Johnson' behalf later in the day.
Johnson is a member of the Indian Affairs Committee and the Appropriations Committee. Johnson said that last year he demanded that the Indian Health Service focus more agency resources on the youth suicide epidemic."
