Native American Reservations and their residents are an incredible example of resilience. Decades of trauma and persecution led many Natives to choose to distance themselves and their children from traditional lifestyles. Despite the hardships and often seemingly limited opportunities on various Reservations, many people are using them as a harbor for culture revitalization. They have given Native youth a new opportunity to connect with their culture, such as language, ceremony, and art. By allowing Natives to occupy a space that is primarily Native and filled with important knowledge sources, youth have found new opportunities to connect with their heritage.
The Rez is filled with loved ones and perhaps a sense of comfort, therefore, it is not feasible or desirable for some to leave. But colonial norms demand productivity and education for success, so many Natives are turning inward to find this. For example, many tribes are offering language immersion schools. This allows those who may not have had access to the language before, the opportunity to be immersed in language and connect more with the culture. This is an important skill and also preserves the language for the tribe moving forward.. Similarly, some people have been able to learn traditional crafting skills, like weaving or pottery. This is a form of healing, a way to preserve customs, and contribute to the society. Further, it is a beautiful example that when we judge someone within a society that is made for them we are more likely to find their talents and strengths. It is less likely these type of programs would have emerged without Reservations because Natives would likely be more scattered and more occupied with white ways of life. But by resisting and choosing to look inward for better opportunities, Native Reservations allows youth to learn about traditional ways of being. They have been shown to help heal intergenerational trauma and ensure that these traditions are not lost forever.
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