Sanders Questioned By Native American Activist

[@vonnedavienwilson8150]

As a Black person, it upsets me that the man tried to shut him up with the "This is a Black forum." No, Black activism needs to build solidarity with Native activism.

[@grandrivercountryhomeofthe3829]

+K. D. Wilson right on.

[@cinnireseisri]

+TheOkaynam Way 2 build consensus. Good job.

[@cinnireseisri]

+K. D. Wilson There are similarities and differences in our issues. I'd be lying if I didn't say that I haven't had just as much racism come from black people as I have from whites. But...I respect what you are saying. Hopefully, despite all the differences that exist we can find common ground and move forward together. Much respect.

[@vonnedavienwilson8150]

I agree.

[@hurrderr6985]

+K. D. Wilson the poindexter was annoying, normally I would object but the native guy seemed reasonably on point unlike SO MANY natives that rant and ramble, the literal "I don't want to hear your life story" response is usually warranted but not so much in this case because he wasn't doing the drunken ramble thing I usually hear you hear it in all sorts of activist communities actually, people who are amateur at speaking don't get to the points and make a lot of noise with no communication

[@resihampton1272]

They have disrespected a 79 year old Native Elder!! Not only did they fail to allow him time to speak on the Broken Treaty topic, they interrupted an Elder while he was Speaking Words of Wisdom and Truth of our Native People and Native Land and Native Issues. He was attempting asking an important question from All the Native Elders, who probably needed to see Bernie's integrity, before voting for him. Bernie Sanders should have silenced the moderator to not only HEAR Mr. Clyde Bellecourt, but LISTEN to his powerful message, then truthfully give his personal answer. Not many people recognize the greatness of being in the presence of a Powerful man as Mr. Clyde Bellecourt. It is an honor to have his attention....yet Bernie missed this epic moment.

[@turtleislandnorthwest6943]

I remember seeing this I had a fucking smile on my face. This is the state of democracy, which is why proletariat rule is needed

[@meldenyse1970]

I am ashamed of the "black" people that sat their ass there and did not check the moderator. Even Bernie could have been 5 minutes late to his other meeting.

[@andrelefebvre5453]

Man says: "Get to the point." Native Man says : "Listen to the story behind the question, behind the point, I'm giving you the proper background for you to reflect, to think before you speak, and understand. Otherwise we are just moving our lips, while our hearts are not moving together."

[@Prodigyz8]

+Andre Lefebvre Except for that part where Bernie Sanders is actually on the campaign trail trying to become our next President. He actually does have a strict schedule at this moment in time. "We are on native land after all and we are going to honor if you can honor the time we have" Period.

[@andrelefebvre5453]

+Prodigyz8 :: I certainly hear that, yes. But here, Bernie is meeting with an historical figure, reaching out to him with a very serious question, and establishing his relevance in the present moment. Meanwhile, yes, probably the schedule is pushing things, but Bernie was already up ready to go, unwilling to engage any further. He basically said: "You have been mistreated and we will look into this AFTER I'm elected." He could have said something to the effect that he actually doesn't know much about those treaties, asked him to contact his office to help him understand more clearly the issues faced by the Native Americans. It wasn't the perfect forum, but Bernie, as you said, is on the road. I do hope he will however come back to the question, instead of confirming that this generation has no real interest in rectifying the cultural genocide of Native Americans. It's all about blacks and whites. However if you fix the Native American situation in a synchronized and strategic way, I suspect many other social issues will resolve themselves, or light a way for their resolution.

[@sjs-stev]

He was on Native land and he KNEW that Bellecout was there, he should have acknowledged him FIRST!!

[@nofreak222]

+Andre Lefebvre No. The background story gibberish clearly wasn't helping him to get the point across. He was just being angry. He should have been stopped sooner.

[@Styxhexenhammer666]

+Andre Lefebvre Sanders is a jew.

[@joyebraun2082]

DISRESPECTFUL what's the name of that moderator?? Both him and Bernie DISRESPECTFUL to one of Native American activists and ELDER... I bet if Clyde was black he would of let him speak! This really gets me mad... yes I am Lakota, don't disrespect my people! Bernie if you or your ppl read this, we the Natives have been supporting you. I thank you for your support against KXL, yes I am a pipeline fighter, I thank you for taking a stance on Dakota Access pipeline.. for standing up for sacred water and climate justice.. but we the indigenous people are on the frontlines.. treaties and the ignoring and blatant disregard for those treaties r part of the problem! For ALL people honoring the treaties is part of climate justice.. sit down with us! Hear our issues.. we do make up part of your swing vote if that's all you care about... but we will not be marginalized anymore.. that moderator was HUGELY DISRESPECTFUL... sickening really...

[@SohailJafar1]

Joye, I believe Bernie should've given a more detailed answer and I believe he will start addressing Native Americans problems etc. Here is what he believes :): feelthebern.org/bernie-sanders-on-native-american-rights/

[@joyebraun2082]

I don't need a primer on Bernie! You all don't even get it! Clyde Belcourt is one of the three original founders of the American Indian Movement... he is about as a big a deal in Native Activism as it gets... to disrespect him, interrupt him, is appalling!

[@Matthem8697]

This interaction started with "we're gonna honor your question if you can honor the time that we have." No matter who you are if you refuse to respect the time available you can't expect to get a good response. This played out like a cable news show. The interviewer refuses to ask a simple question and give the interviewee time to answer. Instead Clyde rambles refusing to get to his question as the time runs out and everyone loses because we get no time for a good response. I was pissed of watching because I wanted an answer and Clyde wasted all the available time on his introduction. Such a great man should've been able to calm down and ask his question instead of letting his anger get the best of him. Then we could be discussing Bernie's response. Unfortunately we don't get to.

[@GRTVO]

+Joye Braun I bet if he was black. Do you know black people are being murdered by the police in the STREET. Damn. That elder was correct. The moderator was using black to shut him down and it's not about black it's about people of colour being slaughter.

[@joyebraun2082]

Do YOU know Natives are being murdered in the streets more than Blacks and no one cares?? More unsolved murders, more rapes,...

[@cinnireseisri]

Take notice. This is what a living legend looks like people.

[@darrellseki7221]

he ignored him he don't ever mention native Americans in his campaign..makes wonder if I should support bernie...I was supporting Bernie but not sure after seeing this video!!! thank u clyde for opening my eyes!! I respect u brother!!!

[@mickeyminaj7296]

They never have enough time. Well 200 some fucking years has been long enough! That is my family and we are the same Bellecourt's. Just like my farther I'am proud of my family and my people !

[@aligorzeimet4029]

I'm a Bellcourt too. I honestly think he should have been a bit quicker and to the point seeing as it was a Q and A. And from what I hear, Sanders was running late. I do know Sanders respects the native people but I wish he would be more vocal about it the way h is for African Americans.

[@A_massive_wog]

+Legend Silva Bernie doesn't represent a 200 year old racist system, he's just one person.

[@walmartian422]

+Legend Silva another full of shit fucking clownshow

[@aligorzeimet4029]

wal martian Hold on there. Many natives have gotten to be easily angered, yes, but no need to be so angry. They've grown bitter because most of the reservation now is in poverty and native society has nearly collapsed. The Native Americans, including the tribe I am from, have had theirbland, culture and language stripped away. Hell. Most natives now are nothing like what the tribes once were. They've all been relentlessly attacked in early America and now the world ignores them. I don't like folks who easily get angry at non full blood natives nor do I like the racism and hate in modern native society, but many of the tribes have faced troubles causing us to be bitter. I've lived on White Earth, it is like crossing into a different country. And not for the better.

[@robinbressler7505]

+Aligor Zeimet Not to mention all the money stolen by land management.

[@meldenyse1970]

Clyde Bellecourt spoke truth. I am embarrassed that the people in the audience did not check the disrespectful man with the mic AND Bernie.

[@hillbill7016]

+meldenyse1970 Sanders was already late for another forum.

[@heatherheals1]

+meldenyse1970 YOUR AN IDIOT< NATIVE HAVE to be heard FINALLY , NAtive before blacks !!!

[@heatherheals1]

+Hill Bill so fucking what, he IS late FOR ANSWERING AND way overdue QUESTION AND ADDRESSING WITH RESPECT THE INGENIOUS FINALLY !

[@TheOkaynam]

+meldenyse1970 BERNIE WILL HELP US MORE THAN HILLARY

[@punkwrestle]

That's what she was saying.

[@melanieortiz712]

whites always run on clocks. Our elders ask questions it is like Clive. They give speeches with this much weight added so when you hear their question you may fully understand it.

[@cinnireseisri]

+Melanie Schneiter You know the guy telling him to hurry up is black, right? At a black community forum. I thought that was obvious since they said that in the beginning.

[@grandrivercountryhomeofthe3829]

+cinnireseisri "black" is a legal designation, a policy built on racial class. If you have rights to the american constitution, you are white regardless of skin tone.

[@cinnireseisri]

Grand River Country: Home of the Six Nations OK, so now we're getting on the crazy train and leaving behind reason and basic comprehension. No, thanks.

[@grandrivercountryhomeofthe3829]

Sure was a politicians answer, We need to enforce our treaties, will We honor the treaties and fight for justice,. Justice can not be delegated without loss of identity.

[@cinnireseisri]

***** I don't know why you're arguing a point that I wasn't making. Also, the executive branch doesn't make treaties or enforce them it is the legislative branch that does that. But it is the sole jurisdiction of the Federal government. Not much the POTUS can do about that, which is a sad truth. Fact is that Sanders is the best candidate for Native people there is currently who is running. Of course the treaties should be recognized FULLY and in the true spirit of the original agreements. Even this isn't enough. The BIA needs to be abolished. Realistically there are things that Sanders can do. Recognizing full sovereignty of First nations is a big step in the direction of decolonialization and he has been supporting that consistently. This is more than any of the other candidates has done. There is no way I trust Clinton who was AWOL against the XL Pipeline and has said nothing about Oak Flat or the Dene water crisis or the contamination of Dene and Lakhota land by open uranium mines. Then when it came to the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act every single GOP candidate did everything they could to torpedo it. Sanders' support was instrumental in it's passing and changes in its language to include non-Native domestic partners/spouses on the reservation. You know what that means and why it is a good thing, right? Is there room for improvement? You better believe it. But considering how everyone else is for the TPP (which would be devastating for Native communities in particular) it is again clear who I should support for my people's communities. It's not Hillary and it sure as hell isn't Trump. I'm not at all arguing against Mr. Bellacourt. In my mind, he is a living legend. Because he is.

[@shannaleota]

Natives also deserve a forum to have a voice. Their vote matters just as much as any race in America. In Minnesota it is a very large Native population and they have been trying to be heard and treated as if they are invisible. It saddens me to have Clyde not get the respect that he deserves as an elder and a leader of the American Indian Movement and his history and fight is strong. He deserves a real answer. It's all politics and fighting for votes and the Native vote doesn't seem to matter to politicians. No one talks about Native American issues and there is a lot to talk about. Miigwetch.

[@goyahtlamon]

+Shanna Dempsey , the reason we have been shunned from politics, the media, the justice system is because politicians and Government know that if somebody like me with the right legal arguments are allowed to prove our sovereign status, interests (as real party), self-governance that we can overcome the systematic destruction of mother earth, our sweat equity (the labor that the people of this country has had to suffer as indentured slaves without equal representation in any court), and our conscience. I can remember going against a Bank in Federal Court where the Justice (Judge) outright lied and agreed with the Banks defense; given that the case I used was relevant to the immoral, belligerent, unconscionable conduct of that Bank...in short, opposing counsel said that my case was inapposite, a strategy used in the Senate, Congress, Courts and any public official in any public office who evades the question of moral responsibility in Securities Law, Commercial Law, Contract Law, but most importantly Constitutional Law. It almost appears as is Sanders is evading but cannot be completely sure because maybe just maybe the time constraints were to important like it happens in court in medical facilities, in congress; when urgent matters necessitate a stand against economic tyranny. Let's all together stand.

[@sjs-stev]

Another reason is that we represent such a small percent of the population. That is why it is essential for everyone to put their tribal affiliation on the census when it comes around - to show that we are still here!

[@hurrderr6985]

you guys do know that the most sympathetic group outside of your tiny little tribe are socialists and that we hate tribalism right? we're for the little guy, but we're not for them if they've got an ethnocentric attitude, we'll gladly drop you right back to the bottom of a pit if you try that sort of thing on us, look what happened to big chief aryan adolf hitler of the german natives liberation movement in 1945 :>

[@MazelTovCocktail]

Btw, Bernie has had native events before. And this man, as a person of color, does deserve to speak at this event but he doesn't have the right to filibuster it. He was told before he started speaking that they were short on time and he still took forever to ask the question. If he wanted a better answer than he should have taken less time.

[@gravecruiser5062]

You must not have heard what pissed him off..They said it was a Black meeting..That would have pissed me off too...

[@4SM93]

it's about time someone said this. one important issue that needs to looked over and publicized more

[@Delta6500ThisIsAURL]

the emotion this man has in this speech. I love it.

[@phawgg2]

The answer is: "The Native American people have gotten a terrible deal from the federal government. I will do everything I can to redress that, (gotta go ...) Thank you all very much." I too hope a longer answer is not only given, but also acted upon in solid, binding, contractual, long standing terms.

[@hurrderr6985]

+Lynnette Knapp well, I don't even like listening to people that ramble so while clyde can get away with it as someone of note, most people, native american or otherwise better not ramble like a drunk or I'm not caring about what they want except to laugh and tell them no

[@A_massive_wog]

+Lynnette Knapp The guy was just trying to do his job as a moderator. Bernie obviously had to be somewhere else where people are expecting him, what do you expect him to do? If he waited around to listen to every single ranting person who approaches him, he wouldn&#39;t be able to get anything done! That rant was meaningful and powerful, but maybe that guy should have reached out to the campaign to talk to Bernie and have a proper discussion one on one. Nothing was going to be achieved from an endless rant at Bernie. "he shouldn't have been on native land". That's not his choice, he was born here.

[@hurrderr6985]

ehh, I think clyde was alright on this one, maybe it's because he had been working for a while before but being a smug bastard interrupting people isn't going to speed anything along when the person you're interrupting is a key figure

[@Leveer13]

+Lynnette Knapp Nobody was trying to silence him. Bernie was there to answer questions, the man took several minutes to talk about HIMSELF before ever getting to a question and only finally spat it out when it was clear Bernie had to leave.

[@rochellebellecourt7605]

He was not talking about himself he was talking for all Native American People ... He had to leave no he was addressed a political question.. I think If I was running for president I would of addressed the question and not been in a hurry to leave.. No answers will get you no votes...

[@EricCortez11]

As a Native myself... Bernie just told on himself and a gave a typical white politician answer. The way walked out on an elder like that speaks volume. I didn't support Bernie Sanders before for various reasons from my own deductive reasoning. But now I really don't now! Or ever...

[@keviinkins]

+EricCortez11 Don't be misunderstood. feelthebern.org/bernie-sanders-on-native-american-rights/

[@SohailJafar1]

The activist was told twice to give a question, there was also another event to get started for Bernie. Please do not think Bernie would walk out of he had more time. Are you voting Hillary instead?

[@cinnireseisri]

+EricCortez11 Bernie put forth legislation to undo the McCain-Fisk land grab of the Apache sacred Oak Flat. What the fuck did Hillary do? Where was she when XL was being pushed? AWOL. Trump? He endorsed it, as did just about every GOP candidate for POTUS. Bernie isn't perfect. He is sour and cranky. He also has a lot to learn about Native issues. But, he is miles above the rest. At least he gives a fuck.

[@rockymissouri1021]

PRECISELY!!!

[@cinnireseisri]

***** The activist? You clearly have no idea about Native issues. Clyde Bellacourt is THE activist. He is the Malcolm X of NDN people. Typical. The contempt Americans have for Natives is shameful. Was told three times? Oh yeah? We're not your subjects. Your forum? It's our land, even by your own treaties that you people have yet to follow - ever.

[@MaximillianGreil]

Bernie's on a campaign trail. He was asked to keep the question brief, he did not. Bernie has never, in his life turned away a person who was struggling for civil equality. The man marched with Martin Luther King, he was arrested while fighting for civil rights. If he had time to address it, he would, but I'm willing to be as it's not a major issue this election, he hasn't researched it. Bring it to his attention, and he'll address it as he always has.

[@mickeyminaj7296]

He didn't have 6min to spare, speaks well for the people. If a man cannot make time for the people, what's he worth to the people?

[@mickeyminaj7296]

The Supremacy Clause of the Constitution of the United States (Article VI, Clause 2), establishes that the Constitution, federal laws made pursuant to it, and TREATIES made under its authority, constitute the "supreme Law of the Land", and thus take priority over any conflicting state laws] It provides that state courts are bound by, and state constitutions subordinate to, the supreme law. The US honors treaties made with other nations but the closest ones. We honor the treaties made with despot dictators and nazis, yet the 1855 MN treaty of washington is almost null and void in accordance with DNR and LEO officials. This man and others made it legal to practice Native American religion, The American Indian Reglious Freedom Act, this man, my family member, had to run from traditional gatherings it was ILLEGAL, to be a traditional Native American until 78, basic civil liberties were denied, just as another white man denied us 6min of time, yes he was I'll prepared, but he came into South Minneapolis, it's where the AIM was started by Clyde and Vernon Bellecourt and Denis Banks. MN has 7 reservations and 4 dakota "communities" he must have had an idea, yet like everyother governmental rep, they've forgotten my people.

[@obsoleteelite8258]

Bernie was afraid of the price he would have to pay for keeping his word and advocating for the Native People:

[@AmericanAbsolute]

Native Indigenous Lives matter! So do their Concerns!!

[@dorianklich7117]

He's speaking from the deep pain of millions of American Natives. He's the voice to be respected, loved and taken to consideration. After all, 60 millions of American Natives were extinguished due to taking their homeland away from them. I salute him for his courage to speak about rights of American People. I and the Polish people salute all the American Indians! We pray to the Great Spirit for your justice and well-being!

[@DakkonDS]

+Dorian Klich i guess they should have fought harder than, huh! to the victor goes the spoils.

[@goyahtlamon]

+zack waugh, you continue to utter stupidity. Kid or not, a lesson in history is in order. There were approximately about 500 or more tribes with less than 300 members. Out of those 500 or so tribes only about 49 went to war with the United States. Under the rules of war and international law a declaration of war need to exist between all involved and with it the a just cause. You tell me how many tribes signed any war declarations in your research and I will desist from posting on this video.

[@MrIzzyDizzy]

i think if anyone will try and help wronged people , bernie will. perhaps he doesnt know exactly what treaty and what it entails, but he will be fair to everyone. if there is an egalitarian candidate for all people its bernie.

[@moheka30]

Bernie answered Clive's question, Clive was entitled to his kōrero, the person on the panel telling him to hurry up, needed to actually STFU and listen with his heart. I know people like Bernie have got a schedule to keep, but from memory, he did visit reservations throughout the US to give Native Americans a voice

[@jacobysalazar966]

"I am one of those colors."

[@ad2_d.a.d627]

waiting on the first Native American president. Then I'll vote.

[@transfire]

A little unfair, since Presidential candidates are often on tight time tables and this was the end of the meeting. Hell, Bernie might have just needed to go to the restroom very badly. But I agree the American Indians have gotten a raw deal throughout our history and it is shameful.

[@francissaxor530]

I want to see Mr. Bellecourt try the same tactic to Mrs. Clinton and/or the Republican candidates. Then we can possibly compare Bernie with them.

[@jmjfanss]

Rand should have never dropped out of the race.

[@Mosdeftito23]

+nativesupport2 sounds more like liberals, they pretty much shut this guy out.

[@Leveer13]

I am Native, but it was pretty clear to me this activist wanted to spend several minutes talking about himself and was only there to get attention.

[@goyahtlamon]

+Neil Kiernan, you are probably right Neil, but don't you get this sense that all politicians not only Bernie do not want to answer this question due to the nature and scope of its implication? Maybe he did have his narcissist moment; yet I am reluctant to believe that some of emotional rant was not from past injustices granted he might have skeletons behind the closet.

[@Leveer13]

I believe Bernie's answer 100%.

[@tykramer5074]

+Neil Kiernan what do you mean attention?? hes a old guy he is mature the only one that will be acting like that is the blackLivesmatter group

[@aligorzeimet4029]

+Walt Mora Sanders may not have responded too heavily to Clyde, but that is because he was running late for another event. He does care about Native Americans, he has done many things in the past such as preventing a pipeline from being run through a reservation that would destroy a Native place of worship. Clyde is good hearted but he should have been quicker. He is my cousin, I understand what he says. I agree. But the thing is, it was a Q and A.

[@Thomas_Oklahoma]

+Neil Kiernan You're not a native, you're a troll

[@leabeckman3558]

America need the damn native Americans president!!!

[@c0xb0x]

Too bad Bernie was late for another speech, that guy deserved a longer answer.

[@kylemiller2822]

+c0xb0x to bad he rambled on for 6 minutes before asking a question. I agree he deserves a detailed response, and i hope Sanders addresses this in the future. Im glad Sanders attends events like these

[@joyebraun2082]

That "guy" was about the Biggest person in Native Activism, Native rights, as it gets... for you all to refer to him as that guy shows just WHY he needed to be heard... colonised thinking and acting and not even knowing it... Clyde Belcourt and AIM... big big deals... by doing what they did, especially that moderator, huge mistake...

[@c0xb0x]

Joye Braun I apologize for my ignorance. I am Swedish and have to admit, to my shame, there are areas of the historical and contemporary American society that I am a less aware of than others. I do know from before that native Americans are still very much suffering from the many injustices that have been committed against them from people coming over from my part of the world. If I had any assets whatsoever I would donate to their cause, but I want you to know that Nee-gon-we-way-we-dun's voice was heard by many people around the world that night.

[@keviinkins]

+Joye Braun i agree with you but he needed to be more brief and ask his question so he can get a longer answer with the little time he had

[@tazsheart]

+VariantOne he wouldn&#39;t have gotten a longer answer because, again, they were pushed aside by the government, (both sides) that VOWS they are here to help everyone. WE have known for years, there are only the &quot;chosen&quot; groups during elections that matter. The poor that will always be poor because they believe the lies told every election. This year, Democrats choose blacks, illegals, LGBT. Republicans choose gun owners, anti-illegals, etc. EVERYONE will NEVER be helped because our government has gotten out of control, and our votes for president have not mattered for years and years. They are pre-chosen before elections even begin. They would hate for all of us to be happy with one another, because then they would have no leverage to make the political parties fight. I KNOW you all have noticed the great job they are doing the last 7 years making &quot;hate&quot; rise again. Just think about it.

[@jonathanjensen7892]

Bernie is a totally compassionate man, but he is only one man. He has supported Native American causes in the past and will continue doing so. Bernie Sanders is the Presidential candidate for this year that is totally dependable and trustworthy.

[@winston2015]

"Will you honor the treaties made with native Americans?" Could he have asked a more general question? Sanders could not have fairly and honestly answer that even if he'd wanted to.

[@joshisanonymous]

I have no idea where Sanders had to go, how pressing it was, or how long Mr Bellecourt was going to speak before asking the question, or how normal it really is for American Indians to pose questions this way, but Sanders has beyond a doubt made American Indian issues more central to his campaign than any presidential candidate I've ever seen, possibly more than any presidential candidate ever. Just try to find Clinton (or any GOP candidate) talking about American Indian issues, whereas Sanders has made prominate ads where Indians are both involved and focused on. He's spent large amounts of time speaking about Indian sovereignty during his Arizona rallies. Where was Clinton on this? Nowhere, because she has not had a single rally or town hall in Arizona and has none scheduled at least until the end of April. She's instead spending her time throwing private fundraisers with a minimum entrance fee of $100. So maybe he could have waited through the whole speech and spent some time answering, but it seems far from fair to suggest that Sanders doesn't care about American Indians.

[@ElijaWB]

Bernie is the only one running for president right now that would even sit there to listen to the words of Mr. Clyde Bellecourt. It is something that needs to be heard, and its a shame he didnt have more time.

[@pageachatter229]

I am a white woman of European descent, but I hold great respect for the Native American people. I think their culture is beautiful, and the fact that they have been able to keep it alive in spite of the previous attempts to destroy it is worthy of respect all by itself. I think what was done to them in the past was atrocious. They have gotten screwed over so many times, and I think it's high time we set things on the correct path. Let's try to do it right this time, shall we?

[@MichaelNosbisch]

feelthebern.org/bernie-sanders-on-native-american-rights/

[@NESalMonella]

+Michael Nosbisch Well, now that he realizes that Native Americans still are surviving in this country....I should say JUST BARELY surviving, perhaps he will have one of his college aides look into our history so he can give a one line answer to our issues. I dont expect anything to come from him at all. he is the Democratic Trump,....all yelling and harsh words but nothing in the way of answers to the issues the FIRST AMERICANS are living everyday.

[@jakecross4628]

+Elo Janis Technically the FIRST AMERICANS were what are termed American Aborgines who arrived in America about 50,000 years ago. They were almost completely wiped out with the arrival of people's about 10,000 years ago crossing the Being Straits originating from Central Asia who are the ancestors of what are termed "Native Americans". Whether the first Americans or not they need to be well treated by all peoples. All needs to be done to help poor people's whether Native American or Black or from any other community. We can't turn back time and make all the wrongs of history right, but we can address inequality that exists today.

[@jakecross4628]

+Elo Janis When people think about Bernie Sanders they should remember that he is the son of Holocaust survivors. 6 million of which were killed by the Nazis. So he is from a very much persecuted people. So many people throughout history have been persecuted at one time by other peoples and so most peoples have at one time mistreated other peoples.

[@joyebraun2082]

We have always been here... your colonized version and white American approved history book lesson... ugh.. I swear people...

[@jakecross4628]

Joye Braun Are you saying you don't believe all people originated in Africa?

[@vrei6419]

This man has all the right to be angry . my respect goes out to him .

[@Prodigyz8]

Listen, he got to ask his question for a whole 3 minutes before he was interrupted one time. News flash people.. Bernie Sanders is actually a very busy person right now. He wasn't trying to avoid the question. The guy wouldn't have stopped talking. Something had to be done. "We are on native land after all and we are going to honor if you can honor the time we have" Period.

[@inannashu689]

Thank you Mr.Bellecourt,for speaking up(as usuall) but for also making a stand.

[@sarawilliams7064]

I wish he would have asked the question at the beginning of the forum to allow time for a proper answer. It certainly would have set the tone for the entire forum. But more importantly, when is our community going to hold a forum for the presidential candidates? Who is willing to set that up and make it happen? I'm in Arizona and at the minimum can ask our AZ Democratic Party Native Caucus to try and set something up. Please try to do the same in your regions throughout the U.S.

[@melanieortiz712]

it is sad Bernie couldn't run on NDN time a be a little late to give a more weighted answer. I still think Bernie is the best choice in tee he whole field.

[@ManjMau]

+Melanie Schneiter I have a feeling Bernie will at some point attempt to listen to them when he gets an opportunity. He is all about those disenfranchised. And who more so than the Natives?

[@XxSeedOfEvilxX]

When you take 6 minutes to ask a question and then don't even ask a proper question, what else do you expect? Ask about specific policies. So much ridiculous vitriol in this comment section from Native Americans. Everybody who feels disenfranchised wants their group to be mentioned. He should address problems of women, latin people, muslim people, gay people, transgender people, black people, Native American people, low income white people. Next thing you know, other groups will want their problems addressed like vegans, MRAs, Indian people, atheists, and the list just goes on and on. If you're gonna ask a question you're passionate about, be concise, specific and not hostile with your "I don't care if you drag me out" line. Bernie did the same thing with BLM activists who kept interrupting him and being hostile to him.

[@82ryujin]

+Genial Idiot 100% spot on

[@mikeynorcross3222]

Everything was actually pretty significant, uless you sympathise a mass genocide and cover-up

[@rochellebellecourt7605]

Thunder Before The Storm ~ I LOVE IT WHEN UNCLE GETS FIRED UP~HOWWAAHHH

[@squigglyline6488]

Your uncle is very cool. I think it's disgusting that police arrested him especially at his age. I saw it in the newspaper. My uncle and cousin are native American through adoption.

[@TheExumRidge]

I think it was okay. Bernie listened. He is wise and will respond in a great way. Clearly this is new to him, but he fights for human justice and it will be a heartfelt response if he wins office. Listening and learning was crucial - who else has done this?

[@jimclam6734]

Clyde you Rock! I hope Bernie and the United States Government repay the Native American Peoples what they are owed.

[@clearlypellucid]

It's time for native Americans to accept that their empires are dead, and will never return. Do I feel bad that the Roman Empire was destroyed and overrun by barbarians who had no understanding of what they ruined? Of course. Do I spend all of my time weeping over it and demanding that the descendants of those barbarians repay me for the things their ancestors destroyed? No. It's time to move on.

[@hurrderr6985]

+nativesupport2 well stop being ignorant and educate yourself silly, conundrum's telling the truth :)

[@Kharonas]

+Conundrum We are not of an empire but a culture, that is sadly being wiped away even though we THRIVE.

[@Kharonas]

+hurrderr No he's not. Are you a Native of America? I am and my family is. It's not anything about ruling or an "empire". It's about the spirit and soul of the land and our people, being wiped away without anyone caring or knowing the facts. There are plenty of Native Americans around and we refuse to let our culture be doused by bigotry and ignorance.

[@clearlypellucid]

ClaudiusPlays Whose responsibility is it to preserve your culture? I'd say yours.

[@Kharonas]

Obviously, but ignorant people who don't know the history or don't care about the genocides in the world keep us from preserving anything.

[@leonardticsay8046]

5:18 . Bernie is uncomfortable. Leaves like the coward he is.

[@MC-kt8xb]

He was already late and literally made 5 minutes which he informed the person prior. He made time for him by being even more late. However, the person unfortunately let his anger get the better of him and used the majority of the time to get political recognition (which is a smart move politically speaking for awareness) so that we can discuss his issue now. Bernie has addressed it before, its even on his website. It would have been better if he did a quick run down of his org. and then a quick back and forth, he could have gone deeper into the topic.

[@jakewaw101]

Clearly you are missing the entire point of why Clyde did it this way.

[@ImmaNinjaw1234]

I'm a Navajo still for Bernie. I have alcoholic relatives whom love to blame the white man for all of their problems even though they chose to blow their monthly "disability" checks on alcohol and go on week long drinking binges. Yes, what happened to us many many years ago was a terrible, terrible thing but at some point, we have to stop blaming the white man for what we are doing now. We were given a shitty deal, there's no doubt about that but what we need is for college educated Natives to start giving back to their communities and likewise, this whole negative stigma that Natives living on the Reservation have about educated Native Americans being "white" or "citified" needs to end. Also, tribal government is corrupt as hell. Maybe we should start with that? Just my 2 cents.

[@tendies]

Stick to your provided time. ranting for 3 minutes isn't a question.

[@mJay__42]

I woulda done the same honestly. like the Fuck dude? u had a minute or so to ask a question. instead ur looking for a pat on the back for what you've done. I get it. you've been done raw. but had u directed the question within a min. you woulda got a better answer.

[@Nakedwow]

I guess I'm out on my own on this one. As a black man I understand what clocks are and do not hate them.

[@mikeynorcross3222]

If you talked for 25 years straight you still couldn't even cover the henious crimes in every corner of this planet. You're one of the black people who hates natives okay we get it. But just know you're puney. Black panthers and this man marched in the 60's & 70's together and into now. You will never know anything solidarity & anti-racist. How do I know I was at the wake when the black og's spoke.

[@trich5621]

Chief Clyde said "I'm tired of this bullshit!" Clyde laid down the law!!!

[@Israhellistheproblem]

He supports israel, just look what they are doing to the Palestinians and you will have your answer.

[@Israhellistheproblem]

***** 100% true. Sad how many people have no clue about these dirtbags they support. Doesn't really matter anyway, because unless you're an elector your "vote" don't mean jack shit anyway.

[@A_massive_wog]

+Israhell is the problem Remember when Hillary had more super-delegates then Obama?

[@AlberYouTube]

+Israhell is the problem If you want to compare what Israel has done through history vs. what Muslim nations have done I'm afraid you'll lose very quickly.

[@Israhellistheproblem]

Alber Compare away zionazi.

[@Israhellistheproblem]

Kheglen Ann Did I say any of that nonsense you just spewed?

[@bhd812]

anyone know what the treaties Clyde was talking about?

[@signoresantinoburnett1169]

Stick to your povided time. ranting for 3 minutes isnt a question.

[@emitabaulenu]

Rest In Peace Clyde.

[@runningantelope50]

ask a quick question don't show off

[@willswift3611]

He's introducing himself, this is manners in native culture. This man worked his whole life for this, he has the weight of all native people on his back at this moment. He's addressing what could be the next president, he's speaking with compassion, not showing off...

[@yvetteroach7002]

+mi hi that's not showing off that is PISSED OFF!

[@hurrderr6985]

+mi normally you'd be right but he wasn't off point in this case, it's so annoying, get to the point, don't waste time that's what manners is in modernity, right? nevermind "native politeness" which sounds like indian giver, just get to the point etc but the guy had a hefty background, and sometimes a qualifier is necessary for points like what he was trying to make

[@sbmwoman607]

Clyde went on too long and was disrespectful of the forum. The moderator was totally appropriate in respectfully requesting multiple times for the question.

[@naomilinklater9253]

+sbm woman The moderator is on Native territory, he should be more respectful of the Elder. The moderator was totally rude talking over the Elder and getting him to hurry up. I am sure it is because he doesn't have a clue but that man needs to be schooled about behaving appropriately and respectfully when addressing an Elder.

[@nolimitzgw2832]

+Naomi Linklater fuck respecting elders by default he comes in unprepared and goes on rambling and disrespects the forum as a whole by wasting time with a rant instead of giving a concise question. 1 maybe 2 minutes tops but 5 minutes of ranting? gtfo respect my time old man maybe just maybe ppl there would have respected what you had to ask. takes respect to give respect. fuck being elderly.

[@naomilinklater9253]

+nolimitz GW Nice logic and great use of the vernacular. Anyone who does not know Clyde Bellecourt and thinks he is given respect by default for being elderly is ignorant and clueless. Your lack of knowledge and lack of respect for First Nations culture and your contempt for the Elderly demonstrates that you come from a culturally impoverished background. The KZbin comments section is probably the only place where you get to air your sad comments. How nice that the internet has finally provided the perfect forum for angry men like yourself. Everyone rises to the best of their abilities.

[@nolimitzgw2832]

the old man was lecturing when it was stated specifically to keep it concise to a question not a rant. clearly no one gave much of a shit who he was when u have the incessant ramblings of an old man when he could have asked his question. He didn't respect the speaker's time constraint so fuck whatever he was blabbing about after 5 minutes.

[@buckfunster]

+nolimitz GW EXCUSE ME, but your time is UP here. You've repeated your self many times. Thank You. NEXT.

[@rockymissouri1021]

THANK YOU.

[@sopmod5566]

God bless our Native Americans.

[@goyahtlamon]

As an American Indian born to the Pokomam clan of Salvadoran Maya, I can tell that discourse will be futile, so long as people like Clide make a stand. Bernie has made attempts against the Banks. I caution him for that, as I have personally seen colleagues fall in the hands of the Banking Mafia. For the most part I have lost; not without causing a dent, however. I have also partially won, but this is not enough. I'd rather talk about collaborating with others like Americans of African, Asian, European, and Latino descent, who see the structure of post colonialism gradually breaking. As a independent law researcher who has won a Federal court case against the banks and two in State court, I can tell you that Bernie cannot by himself dismantle the banks because doing so would cause havoc in local, State, Federal, and International public offices who owe their very existence to the Banks. American Indians like myself can call on the constitutional constraints found implicitly through article 47 of the Vienna Convention, and Article 46, wherein: "A party may not invoke the provisions of its internal law as justification for its failure to perform a treaty obligation", to end all this madness, but it would take the participation and most importantly the vigilance of all Americans to make it crumble. You see the establishment (Council of Foreign Relations, the U.N. Council, IMF and others that I cannot name) cannot allow Bernie to continue picking at the Banks without blaming the Attorneys who are artfully creating legal fictions of law at the whim of the Communist Banks. Clide knows what he's talking about as this Government has outright lied in keeping with broken treaties and most importantly the Declaration of Indigenous Rights that were accepted only as an acknowledgement, but not a commitment to restore the lands to the American Indian predicated on International Contract Law precepts and internal Contract Law precepts. Two give an example when this happened in the recent past, recall that under Clinton's cosmetic apology to the Hawaiian's under Public Law 103-150 in November 23, 1993; when the U.S. Corporation under false pretenses foisted a de-facto Government, prohibited by International Law during that time-which now carries a nullity of Title, not only to the Sovereignty of Hawaiian territories but most notably the American Indian territories of Central America, South America, North America and the Carribean. In collaboration with all peoples of this hemisphere it is incumbent for all American Indians to do the same as Clide, so that there is a settlement agreement for the land with exclusion to the monetary strings that binds us to their dogmas, doctrines, Euro-American expansionism (more particularly -- interest groups -- Federal Reserve -- IMF -- Banks -- Supreme Courts -- Federal Courts -- State Courts -- Public Offices -- Sheriff Departments -- IRS -- FBI and the rest of the alphabet gang) for subverting the rest of the world through threats-and-intimidation. Meantime I will wait for rebuttals to the above mentioned anxiously; since I can only socratically reach a consensus on the subject matter of equality, land ownership, reparations, immigration and other subject matters. I welcome any scholar, Judge, undercover agent, peer, American Indian or others for a rebuttal.

[@monicaacosta-zamora718]

“It’s a Black forum “? What disrespect! Listen to the question. I don’t think I’ll be voting for Bernie!

[@mikeygoodboi]

If he's 79 he's amazing. Wow. Such energy and intelligence.

[@friendlyanalyst273]

Ah it was surprising to see him go backstage in that manner, instead of saying something fuller and more heartfelt, but then again I expect there are important details of context going on in the background. Did he appoint Tara Houska after this event?

[@KingbabyKc]

Bernie obv had to leave and was about to leave before he even asked the question then went on for minutes. On another note he's right however in-eloquently he said it, we have practically abandoned the Native American people of this land. I hardly ever see any politician talk about it and it hardly ever crosses my mind. However Bernie has spent his life working and fighting for regular middle class and low income families, he's helped and past countless bills to help black, white, Hispanic and every color of the rainbow. He is not owned by anyone except for his voters ,as it should be, and his policies fighting for the regular American people reflect to the Indians as well. Though I'm not aware of any bill Bernie has passed to help native Americans he does not shy away to help or protect people from being discriminated. Whatever that bill was if it discriminated against the Native Americans he would not have signed it. It's as simple as that, furthermore the takeaway from this is this......I have no idea what bill this man was referring to since he really didn't get to the point. It shows that there where better ways to express his message.

[@loqutor]

That's as much of an answer as Bernie ever gives to any question.

[@riverlizard9158]

Clyde......for the 150th time......just ask the question. Never mind....thanks for coming Bernie....sorry but Clyde is in his own little world where all he wants is a forum to rattle off his views and tell Bernie that he has plenty of time because we all know that Clyde does all of Bernie's scheduling. Clyde is a special kind of guy....short bus or not....just ask the freakin' question.

[@daviddebergh254]

Im only part Native American (Mohawk Indian, I don't know how much) and my wife is part Native American as well. I respect the culture a lot. It's sad what happened and I think we should embrace your culture.

[@clayguy1]

Clyde's voice that isn't heard or reported on.. his words are truth. Bernie couldn't stand in the light of truth.

[@Leveer13]

+David Lemon He stood there... for about 10 minutes of the man talking about himself waiting for his question.

[@brianwesley28]

One of my Native American friends mentioned the Quantum Blood issue. Regardless as to which candidate is installed, I do intend to address that issue with them.

[@kathcasey2090]

Have Native Americans tried to get a question on any other Townhall, debate or rally? Seriously asking.

[@glumberty1]

This is why they pre-screen the questioners at those events.

[@randomgryffindor9204]

Makes you question the black lives matter movement, native American lives matter should be our main concern.

[@Angelum_Band]

"The Native American people have gotten a terrible deal from the Federal Government. I will do everything I can to re-address that. absolutely!" Bernie Sanders

[@Zachito15]

Sounds like Trump talking

[@Brian22790]

While this wasn't a glowing example of Bernie Sanders compassion, he has spoken about the plight of Native Americans more than any other candidate, and was the only one to talk about them until Hillary followed his lead again. I'm confident that Bernie Sanders is the only candidate who would fight for Native American rights and against corporations that would exploit tribal lands.

[@kbbbb7]

Compared to what Canada and Australia have done for their indigenous populations (and the UN still condemns what Australia does - despite the huge sums of money and in lands which are locally managed by indigenous communities), the USA have treated their indigenous people like garbage and have never apologised for their mistreatment. I can see why Clyde is angry. The UN has a lot to answer for.

[@oldyelir919]

Wow. That is incredibly rude and I would even go as far to say evil what Bernie did to that man. He gives him an emotional speech that you can tell he's been trying to get off his chest for a long time, and all the while he's being pushed around and told to hurry it up and spit it out. When he finally asks the question, what does Bernie do? Bernie, the progressive socialist senator whose entire campaign is supposedly "for the people"? He gives him a half assed answer for 10 seconds and then walks off stage. What a fucking disgrace

[@sumeetsingh0464]

The people who lived on the north american soil for centuries and later get ignored after the colonial rule, the judicial and sociopolitical system at any given time is questioned on their motives towards fair treatment to their people

[@amyrose3792]

Native Americans are the poorest minority. Unfortunately the people with money have the power, not just politically, but socially, control of their own lives. Bernie seeks to redistribute this wealth. This will benefit all minorities but especially Native Americans.

[@2006nationalchamps]

being cherokee native american i support clyde , the government doesnt give DAMN ! ABOUT THE NATIVE AMERICAN PEOPLE !. THEY STILL TO THIS DAY ! do not HONOR our treaties . .

[@rezryda207]

what does Clyde have to say about Annie Mae?

[@sjs-stev]

Disrespect as usual. Not one of the candidates for the Presidency care at all about Native Americans, and regardless of what little crumbs the People have gotten from Obama, he doesn't really care either. We are on our own, but WE ARE STILL HERE and there is nothing they can do about it

[@thecrookedfingerkid]

This is disgusting. How can he get away with shitting on Clyde Bellecourt's question. Ridiculous!

[@1101millie97]

'The federal government had committed so many evils and abuses against us in the past -why then should we trust it when it claims it wants to help us?' I can see where he is coming from....

[@thebigphenom]

Watch Bernie's other address' to Native Americans. As a Bernie supporter, I admit his response looks bad, but you will not find a man who is more committed to ALL of the vulnerable people in our society, including the natives.

[@notnapoleon22]

All Bernie answered was that he was going to do his best to help out the Native Americans. He didn't answer the full question. Everyone needs help in this country. Everyone.

[@IgnorancEnArrogance]

Clyde Bellecourt hijacked the conversation when they were about to end, and they gave him an extra 5 1/2 minutes to speak his peace. He would have kept rambling if Bernie hadn't gotten up. Bernie did answer his question; he said he would honor the treaties and do everything he could do give the Native Americans the deal they deserve. Bernie is an incredibly busy man and sometimes does several T.V appearances, rallies, and forums even in one day. I was at his rally in Utah last month, and he spent about 5 minutes explicitly talking about how we must bring the plight of Native Americans back to the forefront, because they, more than anyone else, know that we must live with nature and not against it. Since then, he has almost always dedicated a bit of time to talk about their history and what we must do to ensure their belated prosperity. Do not assume Bernie is indifferent or rude because of this one video. Clyde should have put a little more thought into his question and given Bernie more time to give a long-form answer. The mediator was also very respectful with his interjections and Mr. Bellecourt didn't seem to care, he obviously seemed prepared to have a predisposition of anger towards Bernie no matter what would have said to him. He has every right to be angry and passionate, but one still must have some social tact and a sense of respect if they want to be understood properly.

[@laurenfazzio8491]

Man with the camera looks so scared.

[@AndrewArndts]

sad to say this but... apparently his handlers failed, if you pardon the parallel, failed like Custer at Little Big Horn Fail, to brief Sen Sanders on the potential questions that may be asked.

[@CounterRevolutionary]

New archaeological evidence suggests that America was first discovered by Stone Age people from Europe - 10,000 years before the Siberian-originating ancestors of the American Indians set foot in the New World. A remarkable series of several dozen European-style stone tools, dating back between 19,000 and 26,000 years, have been discovered at six locations along the US east coast. Three of the sites are on the Delmarva Peninsular in Maryland, discovered by archaeologist Dr Darrin Lowery of the University of Delaware. One is in Pennsylvania and another in Virginia. A sixth was discovered by scallop-dredging fishermen on the seabed 60 miles from the Virginian coast on what, in prehistoric times, would have been dry land. www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/new-evidence-suggests-stone-age-hunters-from-europe-discovered-america-7447152.html

[@904PinballZine]

What? GODvernment loves you!

[@intertribalalliancemovemen1587]

We are ignored by the government things need to change

[@admiralkeelhauled42]

Bernie opens his mouth *lie detector starts beeping*

[@phawgg2]

Target the needy, focus on rebuilding neighborhoods, communities long short-shifted; they will return, with better consumerism, to advance the stability of the whole structure if we join & use our heads. Micro-economics based on sustainable disciplines.

[@SuperJakey92]

This country is so divided, it's only a matter of time till we collapse.

[@danielvincentkelley]

He should have said "YES, I will honor the treaty." He might even have added that he'd honor all the lawfully established treaties (not criminal shit like NAFTA and the TPP, but the treaty's with the natives, certainly). It'd be his job if he was President, to honor the lawfully established treaties.

[@monifarr84]

As an independent leaning toward Bernie, I am very disappointed to see him dismiss this Native American man so abruptly. I look forward to a statement of policy from Bernie addressing Clyde Bellecourt's MOST LEGITIMATE concerns.

[@TheTexasLeftist]

+monifarr84 Maybe if the guy got to the question, then Bernie would have given a longer response.

[@monifarr84]

+SonicSoundtracks1 The guy was so frustrated by a lifetime of being ignored and dismissed although his concerns are totally legitimate. He relished the chance to have a microphone in his hand and to vent. Yes, he did take a long time getting to his question, but when he did, it was whether Bernie would honor of the treaties between the native Americans and the government. I think Bernie would, that's why I wish Bernie had given a longer, encouraging response/explanation to the man.

[@gamernation2842]

Bruh, this happened almost a century ago. We don't give a shit because it isn't affecting us today. GET WITH THE TIMES.

[@abdurrahmanmuhammad9707]

You must honour the treaties of the natives, native lives matters.

[@andrelefebvre5453]

MY POINT WAS: stereotypically, the western mind prefers to go from point A to point B quickly. However, when you give a Native representative the microphone, they will express things that will be beyond the "main" point. And these things are important for that person. Granted, the setting here is not conducive for this kind of interaction, I do understand that. I wasn't blaming Bernie, but the moderator. However, because of this special moment, and Clyde's credentials, Bernie should have sat down and acknowledged a freedom fighter who stood up to the US Government bullyish attitude and actions. That would have been the least thing he could do. But it's too late, so be it. It doesn't make Bernie a worse person, I was just pointing out that this was a great opportunity missed, and I do hope Bernie turned around later on and reached out to Clyde for a meet. Maybe smoke some herbs? Bernie would love that I'm sure... ;)

[@ToddBoyle]

Clyde was part of the AIM leadership who executed Anna Mae in 1975...

[@DakkonDS]

+nativesupport2 sounds like you are taking a threatening tone. check yourself.

[@DakkonDS]

+nativesupport2 do I give a fuck as to if you care? no one cares about you pocs. when will you learn? probably never, history has shown you natives to be pretty stupid. I mean, you were talked into becoming permanent second class citizens. how's it feel to be less than blacks now?

[@DakkonDS]

Kheglen Ann as a white man, did I say you should speak to me. Fuck off bitch. Get back in the kitchen.

[@KheglenAnn]

zack waugh loool

[@KheglenAnn]

,

[@ILLLusion87]

I agree this isnt the best answer Bernie has ever given but heres some context: he was late and leaving to a democratic dinner function that both him and Hillary was going to . Hillary bailed on this forum entirely while Bernie opted to arrive at the fancy dinner late AND do the black forum. Clive just caught him as he was leaving with the worlds longest (albiet justified) question.

[@brettkeaneparticularyoutub9782]

It wasnt justified situation. He didnt need to go on that long.