Race and Ethnicity - Native Americans

Race and Ethnicity SOCI 1306 Native Americans Being the sole nonimmigrant group in the United States, Native Americans, sometimes referred to as Indigenous peoples, occupy a unique position that highlights their deep historical and cultural ties to the nation. The term "Native American" refers to a broad range of groups, as defined by the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI): American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Chamorros, American Samoans, and people who are Native Americans living in the United States as well as members of Canadian First Nations and Indigenous communities in Mexico, Central America, and South America (NCAI 2020, p. 11). The broad and diverse character of Indigenous identity is emphasised by this inclusive definition, which acknowledges the close ties that exist amongst Indigenous peoples throughout the Americas and transcends contemporary political boundaries. Millions of Native Americans formerly made up the continent's population, and they thrived in intricate cultures with intricate systems of political, economic, and spiritual organisation. They were the first stewards of the earth, having spent thousands of years managing the local ecosystems successfully thanks to their deep understanding of them. grasp the depth of their continuing cultural legacy and their relationship to the land requires a grasp of this historical backdrop. But for Native American communities, the coming of European settlers signalled the start of a profound and sometimes devastating transition. Their population and power were significantly diminished as a result of conflict, relocation, newly spread illnesses, and assimilationist policies. According to the U.S. Census, as of 2010, the percentage of Native Americans in the country was just 0.9%. This sharp decline in population is evidence of the centuries-long fight for survival that Indigenous people have endured as a result of systemic marginalisation and colonisation. Native American societies have demonstrated incredible adaptation and tenacity in the face of these difficulties. According to Norris, Vines, and Hoeffel (2012), there are now 2.9 million Native Americans who identify as Native Americans alone, and an additional 2.3 million who identify as Native Americans mixed with another ethnic group. This indicates both an increased interest in and acceptance of Native American origin among the general public, as well as a deeper knowledge and acceptance of mixed heritage. Numerous reasons, such as the revival of Indigenous cultural practices, the revitalization of languages, and the strengthening of tribal government and sovereignty, are responsible for the survival and expansion of Native American identity in the modern day. Numerous tribes are actively engaged in community projects, educational programmes, and cultural events in an effort to protect and promote their distinctive cultures, languages, and customs. These initiatives are essential to preserving the unique identities of the many Native American tribes and transferring to the next generation their rich cultural legacy. Furthermore, there have been notable advancements in the legal and political standing of Native American tribes, particularly with regard to tribal sovereignty. Treaties, legislation, and court decisions have all contributed to the complicated connection that exists between Native American tribes and the United States government today. Tribes are acknowledged as independent states with the innate right to self-govern, administer their territories, and enforce their own legal codes. The sovereignty of Native American tribes is a vital component of their identity and is necessary for their autonomy and right to self-determination. An important factor in Native American tribes' empowerment has also been economic growth. Numerous tribes have made use of their sovereignty to participate in business endeavours including tourism, gambling, and resource management. These businesses have given tribal governments much-needed cash flow and have supported vital services including infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Certain tribes have been able to support sustainable development that is in line with their traditional values and goals and reinvest in their communities as a result of their economic success. The political involvement of Native American communities has been crucial in promoting their rights and interests in addition to economic activities. Native American concerns have been brought to light and significant policy changes have resulted from Native American activism, which dates back to the American Indian Movement (AIM) of the 1960s and 1970s and continues to this day in the fight against pipelines and land encroachments. A new generation of leaders and activists has increased the visibility of Native American voices in the public realm by using social media and other platforms to promote their communities and inform the general public about Indigenous history and rights. Important areas where advancements are being achieved are also representation and education. In an effort to provide students a more accurate and thorough grasp of American history, there is a rising push to incorporate Native American history and viewpoints into school curricula. Furthermore, Native Americans are becoming more visible and wellrepresented in a variety of fields, such as politics, the arts, and the media. In order to dispel misconceptions, promote understanding, and guarantee that Native American perspectives are heard in national dialogues, this representation is essential. Another important area that Native American groups are working to improve is healthcare. When compared to the broader American community, Native Americans have historically had considerable health inequities, such as greater prevalence of chronic illnesses and shorter life expectancies. More funding for health infrastructure and culturally competent healthcare services are needed to address these discrepancies. The goals of tribal healthcare efforts and collaborations with federal agencies are to support public health campaigns, improve access to healthcare, and enhance the general well-being of Native American populations. Natural resource conservation is closely related to Native American spiritual and cultural traditions. Numerous tribes are leading the charge in environmental conservation initiatives, pushing for the defence of natural resources, ancestral grounds, and holy sites. Their generation-old traditional ecological knowledge provides important insights into biodiversity protection and sustainable land management. An approach to environmental stewardship that is more comprehensive and respectful of Indigenous knowledge and traditions is being fostered via partnerships between environmental organisations and Native American tribes. As the first people to live in the United States, Native Americans have a rich and complicated history that is characterised by both great accomplishments and major obstacles. Their identity is complex and encompasses many different cultures, languages, and customs. Native American societies have always shown strength, adaptation, and resilience in the face of past and present adversity. Native Americans are not only conserving their legacy but also paving the way for a bright and sustainable future via initiatives in cultural revival, economic development, political action, education, healthcare, and environmental protection. Their opinions and contributions are essential to the composition of American society, and their tenacity and advocacy throughout the years are striking examples of their lasting spirit.