Wilma Mankiller, Chief of the Cherokee nation from 1985 to
1995, gave a speech at Sonoma State University in 2008, in which she spoke
about the misconceptions held by many in mainstream society, of Native American
Peoples. She provided a brief review of American history in order to help
clear up common misconceptions of Indian identity, transformation, continuity
and resilience.
Folks in mainstream U.S. culture sometimes think of Indians
as a cultural relic of the past, as rather an artifact or as people in need of ‘advancement’.
Mankiller spoke of the importance of context, such as time and place, in
relation to understanding Native American Peoples. Native American Peoples are
diverse groups of people still living who enjoy modern lifestyles.
Clearing up the common misconception of a singular ‘Indian’
identity, Chief Mankiller discussed some of the 550 plus tribal groups,
speaking of their distinct political structures, their unique histories,
languages, beliefs, customs and ceremonies. Many in mainstream U.S. culture are
unaware of the cultural and historical complexity of Native American societies.
Mankiller provided her audience context for understanding
Native Americans living today with a brief discourse on Indian Nation and U.S.
relations. She pointed out that many people in mainstream U.S. society do not
know the full details of American history, including the Native American
perspective, whereas Native Americans have been compelled to learn and adapt to
the dominant culture’s perspective and lifestyle. Ignorance about both the
history and the current reality relative to Native American people can lead to
the misunderstanding of the issues with which Native Americans currently
struggle.
Native Americans embrace and hold onto their unique cultural
heritage while they also work to adapt to the dominant culture. Sometimes
adjusting is difficult, but Mankiller spoke of maintaining a positive attitude
as key to living a happy and productive life. She stressed that it is important
to remain positively focused because, as she said, “It is hard to see the
future with tears in your eyes or anger in your heart (Mankiller).” Thus,
Chief Mankiller showed us that Native Americans are a resilient people; they
find positive ways to adapt to change.
In this speech, Chief Wilma Mankiller demonstrated for the
audience that Native Americans, are a resilient, living modern people who are
adapting to their new circumstances while at the same time they embrace their
unique cultural heritages and lifestyles.
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