Editor:
I came to New Mexico in 1970 and taught kindergarten at Santa Clara Pueblo for seven years. Later I was the science facilitator for the Espanola School District. I have lived in Velarde for 44 years.
I have observed that the history taught in most schools does not reflect the accurate events of the conquest of the pueblo people.
When the statue of Oñate was erected in Alcalde it felt to me like a slap in the face to our pueblo neighbors. Although Oñate brought much to the area that we appreciate such as fruit trees, domestic animals, metal tools and a rich, beautiful culture, he also brought subjugation of a resident culture and cruelty to all. Finally he was recalled to Spain to pay for his misdeeds.
I believe that most of the people in the Española Valley want to live in peace and harmony with each other. It is so important to listen to each other with an open heart and find common ground to build on. It is important to have safe places where we may come together as neighbors to solve these challenging issues.
Our Rio Arriba County Commissioners have a timely opportunity and responsibility to facilitate such dialogue.
I hope that the Oñate statue will find a home in a museum where the history will be told in an impartial way so that all may understand the blessings and the curses of that time.
Judith Chaddick
Velarde