I am glad that they are finally recognised as citizen. It is kinda sad since they're actually the ones who have been staying longer in the land, which is a fate similar to any other indigenous people, as you said.
                     
Here in Australia, we have also something like this. There are some debates about the celebration of Australia Day since for the indigenous people, it is not a good day at all, obviously. If you are interested to know more, you can read more about it here.
                     
Anyway, that matter aside, I hope you will enjoy a good weekend, koto-san :).