Whereas is a poem castigating the use of a systematic language used by the US to address its acts of violence. The poet, Layli Long Soldier, responds to the congressional joint resolution of apology to Indian tribes. The resolution was signed by President Obama and dominantly employs the word “whereas,” which seems to have irked Long Soldier. The U.S government is used to using casual and informal language in documents addressing serious issues. The use of such language shows that the government does not regret the injustices subjected to the victims.
The documentation of resolutions using almost similar words in every document justifies the government’s actions of refusing to accept full responsibility. Native Americans have suffered every kind of injustice and deserve an official apology from the federal government. Long Soldier opines that Native Americans have the right to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. The federal government is captured by individuals who believe Indian tribes are second-class citizens.
The word “Whereas” is used sarcastically to make the audience get insight into the brutalities and cultural expurgation of Indian tribes. The government admits the systematic violence against native tribes by white settlers but fails to account for its inequities. The resolution argues that, whereas Native Americans were subjected to torture and oppression, there were cases of good interaction between white settlers and Indians. Such statements vanquish the value and importance of resolution.
