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American Indian Education: A History of Oppression and Resistance

Reed Mitchell

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The history of American Indian education is a long and complex one, marked by both oppression and resistance. From the early days of colonization, when Native American children were forced into boarding schools designed to strip them of their culture and language, to the present day, when Native American students continue to face systemic racism and discrimination in schools, the story of American Indian education is one of struggle and resilience.

American Indian Education: A History

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	384 pages

The Early Years

The first European settlers in North America brought with them their own ideas about education. They believed that Native American children were "savages" who needed to be "civilized." This belief led to the establishment of boarding schools for Native American children, where they were taught English, Christianity, and other aspects of white culture. The goal of these schools was to assimilate Native American children into white society and to erase their own culture and traditions.

Boarding schools were often harsh and abusive places. Children were forced to cut their hair, wear uniforms, and speak only English. They were punished for speaking their native languages or practicing their traditional customs. Many children died in these schools from disease, malnutrition, or abuse.

The Indian New Deal

In the 1930s, the federal government adopted a new policy towards Native Americans known as the Indian New Deal. This policy was designed to improve the lives of Native Americans by providing them with education, healthcare, and other social services. The Indian New Deal also led to the establishment of new schools for Native American children, such as the Indian boarding school in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The Indian New Deal schools were less harsh than the earlier boarding schools, but they still had a negative impact on Native American children. The schools continued to promote white culture and values, and they discouraged Native American children from speaking their native languages or practicing their traditional customs.

The Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s had a profound impact on American Indian education. Native American activists began to challenge the racism and discrimination that they faced in schools. They demanded that Native American children be taught about their own culture and history, and they fought for the right to speak their native languages in schools.

The Civil Rights Movement led to a number of important changes in American Indian education. In 1968, Congress passed the Indian Education Act, which provided funding for Native American schools and programs. The Indian Education Act also established the National Indian Education Association (NIEA),which advocates for the rights of Native American students.

The Crisis in American Indian Education

Despite the progress that has been made in recent years, the crisis in American Indian education continues. Native American students still face systemic racism and discrimination in schools. They are more likely to be suspended or expelled than white students, and they are less likely to graduate from high school or college. Native American students also have lower test scores than white students, and they are more likely to live in poverty.

The crisis in American Indian education is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, there are a number of things that can be done to improve the lives of Native American students. These include:

Increasing funding for Native American schools and programs
Creating culturally relevant curricula that teach Native American students about their own culture and history
Hiring more Native American teachers
Supporting Native American students who are struggling in school
Advocating for policies that address the needs of Native American students

The Future of American Indian Education

The future of American Indian education is uncertain. However, there is reason to hope that the crisis can be overcome. Native American students are resilient and determined, and they are working to create a better future for themselves and their communities. With the support of educators, policymakers, and the general public, Native American students can achieve their full potential and make a positive contribution to society.

Learn more about the history of American Indian education in this book.

American Indian Education: A History

4.5 out of 5