Many years ago, the only people living on Turtle Island (now called North America) were Indigenous. Indigenous means the first people to settle in a particular place and care for the land. Native Americans, or American Indians, are the Indigenous peoples of the United States. Each had their own Tribal name, language, traditions, and customs.

Colonization changed the lives of Native American people, damaging the relationship between Native American tribes and the government. Native Americans were not looked at the same as other people. In fact, they were not even considered U.S. citizens until 1924 and could not vote or practice their beliefs until recently. Not so long ago, Native American children were not even raised by their own families but were taken away by government and church officials and placed in boarding schools.

Being sent to an Indian boarding school was a scary experience for a Native American child. Beginning in the 1860s, they couldn’t live with their families and were transported away from home. The children were forced to speak English, their long hair was cut, and they were not allowed to dress in traditional clothing. Customs, spiritual practices, and Tribal languages were lost for many generations.

Life has gotten better for Native American people. Many have started to heal from a long history of people trying to erase their culture. They are now able to freely leave their reservations, dress how they want, openly practice their cultural ceremonies, and are proud to wear long hair again. Even their languages are starting to be spoken again.

The majority of Urban Native Americans, or those living off the reservation, reside in cities and walk in what they refer to as “two worlds.” It’s sort of like putting a Nike shoe on one foot and a moccasin on the other. They are part of the modern world but haven’t forgotten their culture or history. They proudly speak their languages again, openly dance at powwows, and stand up to the government about their rights.

Now, Native American people are serving in leadership positions at all levels and within the government. Secretary Debra Haaland, the first Native American to be elected to the Cabinet of the White House, is a role model to many. To think that only one generation ago, American Indian people were not able to even vote and now they are leaders in the U.S. government is truly amazing!

While many Tribal communities have struggled to keep their culture, traditions, and languages going, some have kept the fire of their ancestors’ teachings alive and have done everything they can to preserve their beliefs and pass along knowledge, spirituality, and languages to the next generation. Even though there are still scars from the pain of their ancestors, Native Americans have gained a sense of renewed pride in themselves and plan to carry it forward for years to come.

All people in America, including American Indians, share a history that is full of moments of great sadness, but also great joy. There is a shared past but also a bright future. By learning about Native Americans and realizing that they are important members of our communities, we can all join the fight to keep the past from repeating itself. Now more than ever, it is important to stand up for Native Americans and help them to take back their culture and heritage. Together, we can all move forward into a better tomorrow.