Why did the U.S. government sterilize thousands of Native American women in the 1970s? New Mexico is investigating
New Mexico officials are opening a state-level inquiry into historical sterilizations of Native American women, targeting abuses that occurred in the mid-20th century and resurfaced in investigations. The effort aims to document the scope, identify affected communities, and uncover how state systems allowed or enabled coerced sterilizations.
Advocates and lawmakers say these actions reflect long-standing injustices and underscore the need for accountability, survivor support, and systemic reforms. The investigation seeks to preserve records, interview affected individuals or families, and collaborate with tribal Nations and federal authorities.
Officials emphasize that this is part of broader national reckonings with reproductive coercion and rights violations, with implications for policy changes, reparative justice measures, and improved informed consent practices in U.S. health care.