Hands Off!: Haaland Speaks in New México

Darren Thompson

Posted April 10, 2025

This past weekend, people in more than a thousand cities across Turtle Island organized to demonstrate disapproval of the Trump administration, corporate oligarchy, and attacks on the workforce and human rights. Millions reportedly joined the call for the administration to keep its “Hands Off!” Demonstrators aimed criticisms at attacks on social security, education, and healthcare, executive orders slashing federal jobs and funding, the federal government’s denial of DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) efforts, and the Department of Government Efficiency, headed by Elon Musk.

I happened to be at a meeting regarding the Albuquerque Urban Indigenous Resource Center, blocks away, when I found out about the Hands Off! rally at the Civic Plaza downtown. Not knowing exactly what to expect — particularly regarding participation from Indigenous People — I decided to take a look. Then I saw a group of Pueblo and Navajo women making signs that read, “HANDS OFF OUR LANDS!” so I displayed my press credentials, began unpacking my camera gear, and made my way to the plaza. Once I arrived, I headed toward the stage, where I immediately saw the former U.S. Secretary of the Interior (and Pueblo of Laguna citizen), Deb Haaland! I encourage you to watch my video highlighting Haaland’s remarks and some of the event’s other featured speakers.

Haaland, who is now running to become governor of New Mexico, was first on the speaker’s list. She called out the administration’s attack on veterans and working families, as well as tariffs and tax breaks for the wealthy, and she spoke to the power of organizing. I noticed how she didn’t make claims to speak for any tribe or tribal coalition. Tribal people are careful not to speak for others. Leadership is complicated in many Indigenous communities and societies.

I was happy to see legendary workers’ advocate Dolores Huerta was also there to speak, and that several other Indigenous People were able to voice their concerns on the microphone to the thousands in attendance. In times past, when tribal sovereignty was threatened, the people have always united — and this day felt no different.

I think it’s important to say this: While this administration’s policies and personnel may present direct challenges to our rights and humanity, attacks on Indigenous people, our lands, and our ways of life are nothing new. Taking the responsibility to defend ourselves — to advocate, organize, and support our communities — has always been at the forefront of our consciousness, regardless of the political party in the White House.

The traditional exclusion of Indigenous people in the halls of power continues, so we’ll keep exercising our voices to influence decisions that affect us. Unfortunately, ensuring that Indigenous people and communities are healthy has never been a top priority for the federal government — but that won’t stop us from making noise and making change. We’re still here, and we’ll keep documenting and amplifying the movement each step of the way. As always, we’re very grateful to you, because your support empowers us to do just that.

Miigwech — thank you for standing for justice and humanity!

Darren Thompson is Director of Media Relations for Lakota People’s Law Project , Sacred Defense Fund.