Bad Az. Bill Being Passed

Last night the governor of AZ received a bill that would honor a weapon that is responsible for the murders of many. As a short range weapon, it was used by the military up through 1892 for that short range final kill of the wounded. Please let me share some background with you from Sen. Albert Hale, Navajo, of AZ. Time is of the essence.


Dear Honorable Indian Nation Leaders and fellow Native Americans:

SB 1610 state firearm, a bill to designate the Colt Action Army Revolver as the official gun of the state of AZ, is moving through the legislative process. In the House Judiciary Committee, I voted in opposition to SB 1610. In explaining my vote, I stated that this bill "honors and glorifies a weapon that killed my ancestors and many Native Americans. Through use of such weapon, almost all things that belonged to Native American people and nations were taken."

I urge your immediate expression of opposition to SB 1610. The bill will be before the full House for Committee of the Whole (COW) consideration and thereafter for Third Read. Your immediate action is requested and is appreciated. Attached is a copy of the Senate Engrossed Bill and House Summary Sheet for your reference.

Thank you.

Respectfully, Rep. Albert Hale


If you are interested in expressing opposition to the governor signing this bill into law, a sample letter is below. You can either fax, call, post, or email the letter. Addresses follow the letter, which would need your signature and address. Thank you. If you have folks you would like to circulate this to, please do - of course taking out my name and reference, adding your own. The governor has 10 days to decide, so time is of the essence. Anyone from anywhere can write and condemn this bill. Thank you ~ Billie



April 20, 2011

The Honorable Jan Brewer
Governor of Arizona
1700 West Washington
Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Governor Brewer,

I strongly oppose SB 1610 that would make the Colt 45 (Colt Single Action Army Revolver) the official firearm of the State of Arizona.

I oppose the proposed law on the grounds that it glorifies a weapon used to kill many Native Americans and to remove Native Americans from their traditional lands by threat of death.

I urge you to veto this legislation.

Sincerely,

((Name, address etc))



TELEPHONE: (602) 542-4331 (Press '3' to leave a message or Press '4' to speak with a representative)

In State Toll Free: 1-(800) 253-0883 (outside Maricopa County only)

FAX: (602) 542-1381

An E-MAIL can also be sent via the Governor's website: http://azgovernor.gov/Contact.asp
with the subject title " Please VETO SB1610!"