#sherman alexie indigenous

[eros-thanatos89]

Thoughts on Reservation Dogs

I recently watched the Reservation Dogs finale and my soul is destroyed, but like, in a good way? The show just consistently leaves me feeling hollowed out, but like, in the way of that quote about opening ing a hole so you can let the light in…(can’t remember where thats from now…)

I’ll try not to give away any spoilers for folks still watching S3, but I felt the need to just process my thoughts and feelings about the series as a whole.

First of all, it’s amazing to see such an explosion of Indigenous-made media in the last few years (I also highly recommend the fun teen horror film Slash/Back!) and Reservation Dogs just feels steeped in the tradition of not just Indigenous culture, but Indigenous film and literature. I’m the first to admit that I’m pretty ignorant when it comes to Indigenous media as a whole, so I’ll just speak to what I know.

I’m a big fan of the author Sherman Alexie and his influence (particularly his short story collection The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven and his movie Smoke Signals, which is based on it) on Rez Dogs is really clear: that balance of humor and tragedy, the surrealism/magical realism, the tongue in cheek way the narrative pokes fun at itself and characters poke fun at themselves and each other and use humor to cope with their struggles.

I really love how the show bounces around between present and past, characters speak to spirits and ancestors, and the community and culture anchor even the most lost characters on their search for themselves and for meaning. The way it handles intergenerational trauma and its impact on individuals and the community is so poignant. And then, in the same episode, it’ll have you in stitches cracking up at the antics and misadventures of the characters. AND the equal attention paid to both male and female characters and the older and younger generations is SO GOOD. And really highlights how sadly rare that still is in mainstream media.

This show has made me cry (several times in one episode, on multiple occasions), made me laugh out loud, and made me think about history, community, identity and friendship.

Seriously, if you have to yet watch it please, please do!! Sterlin Harjo and the others writers are fantastic, the cast of actors is amazing, the music slaps, the visual storytelling is great…seriously this show kicks so much ass and is so impactful! And fun!!

Ok, I could rant forever about how much I adore Reservation Dogs.

I’ll definitely be rewatching! Just want to steep myself in that world a little longer! ❤️❤️

(Come howl with me about it if you’re also a fan! Owoo!)

[harmonyhealinghub]

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian: A Captivating Journey of Identity and Resilience

Shaina Tranquilino

October 26, 2023

Sherman Alexie's novel, "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian," is a powerful coming-of-age story that delves into the challenges faced by Native American teenager Arnold Spirit Jr., also known as Junior. Through humour, heartbreak, and introspection, Alexie skillfully explores themes of identity, resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at why this novel has resonated with readers worldwide.

A Glimpse into Reservation Life: "The Absolutely True Diary" offers readers an authentic glimpse into reservation life on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Washington State. As Junior navigates between his community and the predominantly white school he chooses to attend outside the reservation, we witness firsthand the stark disparities in resources and opportunities. This contrast underscores deeper issues like poverty, alcoholism, racism, and cultural assimilation that many Indigenous peoples face daily.

Humour as a Coping Mechanism: Alexie brilliantly infuses humour throughout the narrative to alleviate some of the weighty topics addressed in the book. Junior uses his wit to cope with difficult situations while providing readers with moments of genuine laughter. These humorous anecdotes serve as reminders that even amidst adversity, it is essential to find joy wherever possible.

The Quest for Identity: One of the central themes explored in "The Absolutely True Diary" is Junior's quest for identity. Struggling with feeling like an outcast both within his tribe and at his new school, he embarks on a journey to find his place in the world. Alexie paints a complex picture of how one's sense of self can be shaped by culture, heritage, family dynamics, personal experiences, and societal expectations.

Friendship as a Lifeline: Throughout his journey, Junior develops profound friendships that provide solace during challenging times. With his best friend, Rowdy, and a new ally in Penelope, Junior finds unwavering support, loyalty, and understanding. These relationships highlight the significance of connection and how it can help individuals overcome adversity.

Resilience and the Power of Education: As Junior leaves behind the reservation to attend a predominantly white school outside his community, he faces numerous obstacles. However, his determination to pursue education becomes a symbol of hope for both himself and those around him. Alexie emphasizes the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of breaking free from societal constraints to achieve one's dreams.

An Authentic Voice: One cannot discuss "The Absolutely True Diary" without acknowledging its semi-autobiographical nature. Drawing from his own experiences growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation, Alexie brings an authentic voice to every page. This personal touch adds depth and rawness to the story while allowing readers to gain insights into Native American culture often overlooked or misrepresented in mainstream media.

Final Thoughts: Sherman Alexie's "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" is a profound exploration of identity, resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. By blending humour with heart-wrenching moments, Alexie crafts a novel that resonates with readers from different backgrounds worldwide. Through Junior's journey, we are reminded of the importance of cultural pride, empathy, understanding, and perseverance in navigating life's complexities.

Whether you're seeking an emotionally charged coming-of-age story or hoping to gain deeper insight into Native American experiences, "The Absolutely True Diary" is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who embarks on this remarkable literary adventure.

[abracazabka]

PLEASE READ THE SHORT STORY "WHAT YOU PAWN I WILL REDEEM" (2003) BY NATIVE AMERICAN AUTHOR SHERMAN ALEXIE

[manwalksintobar]

How It Happens  // Sherman Alexie

Every day for a year three Indian men waited at that bus stop then one morning, only two and only two for the next year or so then yesterday, only one clutching a brown paper sack. As I drove by that last one turned away Then this morning, briefly I considered stopping to ask the one what happened to the two though of course I already knew.

[thebanishedreader]

Book Bans in Colorado (Pt. 2)

As of June 2023

Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe

Brief Summary: Author Maia Kobabe (e/em/eir) tells eir experience finding the words to express eir identity through adolescence and adulthood, from inside the closet and out.

Banned pending investigation as of September 2022.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Blackwell's (UK)

Let's Talk About It: The Teen's Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human (A Graphic Novel) by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan

Brief Summary: An approachable and thoughtful graphic novel that covers topics ranging from romantic and platonic relationships to understanding the functions and connection of one's body, and how those interact in a social world.

Banned from libraries and classrooms as of September 2022.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Blackwell's (UK)

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie*, illustrated by Ellen Forney

Brief Summary: Junior, an indigenous-american adolescent and aspiring cartoonist is torn between escaping his poverty and addiction-stricken home life on the Spokane reservation, and facing racism and other obstacles for a chance at achieving his dream.

Banned from libraries as of February 2023, based on a formal challenge.

*Rather than including links to places you can purchase this novel to support its circulation, I am including a link to a full downloadable PDF. While it is a remarkable book, Sherman Alexie has been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women. I cannot in good faith condone the purchasing of his novel and the addition of money to his estate, since he used that fame and wealth to victimize women. So, read the book! It's wonderful, but do not buy it.

Download Full Novel Here

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Brief Summary: Sethe, an emancipated enslaved person, is haunted by the horrors of her violent past on a farm called Sweet Home. Her future is not free either, as her new home is haunted by the horrible loss of her unnamed infant, whose tombstone bears only one word: Beloved.

Banned from libraries as of February 2023, based on a formal challenge.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Blackwell's (UK)

Statistics Source: Pen America

Support the American Library Association!

[bookclub4m]

20 Books Adapted into Film/TV by BIPOC Authors (and 7 Being Adapted Soon)

Every month Book Club for Masochists: A Readers’ Advisory Podcasts chooses a genre at random and we read and discuss books from that genre. We also put together book lists for each episode/genre that feature works by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, & People of Colour) authors. All of the lists can be found here.

The Color Purple by Alice Walker | The Color Purple (1985)

The Women of Brewster Place by Gloria Naylor | The Women of Brewster Place (1989 mini-series)

Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel, translated by Carol & Thomas Christensen | Like Water for Chocolate (1992)

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan | The Joy Luck Club (1993)

Beloved by Toni Morrison | Beloved (1998)

The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie | Smoke Signals (1998)

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi | Persepolis (2007)

Q&A by Vikras Swarup | Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

Push by Sapphire | Precious (2009)

Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup | 12 Years a Slave (2013)

Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly | Hidden Figures (2016)

Silence by Shūsaku Endō, translated by William Johnston | Silence (2016)

Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese | Indian Horse (2017)

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan | Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas | The Hate U Give (2018)

If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin | If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han | To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)

Tiny Pretty Things by Sona Chararipotra | Tiny Pretty Things (2020 TV series)

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga | The White Tiger (2021)

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee | Pachinko (2022 TV series)

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang | American Born Chinese (2023 TV series)

The Color Purple by Alice Walker | The Color Purple (2023)

Exit West by Mohsin Hamid | Exit West (2023)

Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam | Leave the World Behind (2023)

The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin, translated by Ken Liu | The Three-Body Problem (2023 TV series)

Blackout by Dhonielle Clayton, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas, Ashley Woodfolk, and Nicola Yoon | Blackout (forthcoming film & TV series)

The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris | The Other Black Girl (forthcoming TV series)

[peyton--warren]

I 💚 Sherman so much and that book is so good.

“You have to love somebody that much to also hate them that much, too.”

— Sherman Alexie, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

[heiserosandhesapollo]

that blazed post was satire right

REAL fucking suspicious that all these rolled into my inbox in a single night, back to back. Almost like you forgot to turn on anon for half of them 🤔🤔🤔

But let's go ahead and give you the benefit of the doubt.

"How to be a trans man (according to the internet)" was loosely inspired by Sherman Alexie's "How To Write The Great American Indian Novel" in the sense that I wanted to do non-rhyming couplets that directly contradicted each other to point out how people outside of a marginalized group stereotype and fetishize said group. (Alexie's poem is much, much better than mine. He breaks the format pretty quickly and the last two lines are the greatest gut-punch I've ever read in a poem. I am white and did not want to appropriate an indigenous man's pain, so I tried to only take broad inspiration from the opening lines and go in my own direction.)

Now, with that context, let's examine the title.

"How to be a trans man" denotes a set of instructions or rules for behavior. But the poem has a parenthetical, "(according to the internet)", which implies that these are not the author's (my) rules, but rather something that comes *from* the internet. Reading the poem I used as inspiration, and the last two lines, "In the Great American Indian novel, when it is finally written,/ all of the white people will be Indians and all of the Indians will be ghosts," we can infer that this is a poem not about representation, but about cultural appropriation (and, really, genocide). It is not meant to be serious advice, but layers of irony about how colonizers use literature as a tool to erase an entire culture.

When you take irony into consideration, you can then look at the structure of my poem.

Every couplet (except the final one) starts with "You must", with the second line starting with "but". This sets an expectation, then immediately limits or contradicts the expectation. For instance:

"You must have a common, boring name,/ but nothing as common as "Aiden."" If you pay any attention to how trans men's names are treated, you may have heard jokes about trans men having the names of "Drowned Victorian orphans", which is just a way to say that trans men pick old fashioned, pretentious, or "weird" names. A trans man who is not out may see these jokes and therefore try to steer towards really common names, especially ones that are common *right now*. This meant that a few years ago, there was a flood of trans mascs naming themselves "Aiden". But again, if you've paid attention to the treatment of trans men the last few years, you'll know that "Aiden" is used to insult trans men with "basic" names.

Again, look to the title of the poem. This is how *the internet* tells trans men to behave - giving them one set of instructions and then immediately punishing them for following it. The poem uses an ironic structure to show the irony that trans men experience daily.

All of the lines in the poem were either things I have been told to my (digital) face, or seen other trans men on Tumblr, Twitter, Youtube, and Tiktok been told.

Now, not to be mean, but perhaps do some literary analysis when you find a poem that rubs you the wrong way. Look at the title, structure, imagery. Perhaps even look at the rest of the author's work - if you search my blog for "trans", you'll find multiple poems about the trans male experience (my personal favorite is "I relate to werewolves for more than just aesthetic reasons"). These, taken together, paint a pretty straightforward picture of my views on the trans male experience.

I'll admit, had I gotten these asks when I first posted these poems, I would've freaked out, wondering if I was being too subtle. But at this point, with over 4,000 notes on the post and tons of people in the tags telling me that they have felt the exact emotions of the poem... I think you and anon either aren't taking the time or don't care to actually analyze a (pretty straightforward) poem.

[sweetthoughtsbymarie]

Thursday September 19th

Warrior Day Sherman Joseph Alexie Jr. (born October 7, 1966) is a Native American novelist, short story writer, poet, screenwriter, and filmmaker. His writings draw on his experiences as an Indigenous American with ancestry from several tribes. He grew up on the Spokane Indian Reservation and now lives in Seattle, Washington. Alexie was born with hydrocephalus, a condition that occurs when…

[impishcupid]

yo shout out to my freshman year english teacher for having us read “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie because not only was that like a really good book and he used it as a really good bounce point to teach us about racism towards indigenous people in present day, he got us to care about it by presenting it perfectly to a bunch of high schoolers.

He told us it was super super serious he was letting us read it because it’s a banned book and he could get in so much trouble for it, which could’ve been absolutely true (and it is a banned book) but my class ate that shit UP dude! I don’t think i’ve ever seen a class w that many people invested in the topic, the entire time he was teaching it he made it feel like we where getting away with something. Whole time he was having us read chapters then would show us material from present day and we had to compare how they where similar and what racist troupes where at play, and what ones may have developed between.

Anyway shout out Mr.G, thanks for letting me know Lovecraft was a racist you’re so punk rock

[treefey]

Toned down doesn't mean removed necessarily, so fingers crossed?

To anyone saying "it's only 4 episodes," no. It's directly mentioned in those episodes, but it's part of his character growth the whole time after, esp in the Northern water tribe. Who comes up with the idea of Katara learning waterbending at night from Aang? Sokka! That's a very different Sokka than the one who originally didn't support waterbending or his sister. Who is directly impacted by a woman having no say in her marriage? Sokka! Who is the first to recognize Toph's strengths and also to the first to support her when she needs eyes? Sokka! These scenes are so impactful because we know where he started.

I can see the complaint about the water tribes' patriarchy being bad rep of real life indigenous tribes, who traditionally don't have 1950s-type gender roles. So if that's how and why they changed it could be interesting. However, colonialism has distorted a lot of the traditional indigenous concepts irl, hence modern decolonization efforts battling erasure + generations of forced assimilation. (Like, Sherman Alexie's creepy words and actions aren't the result being surrounded by a culture viewing women as equal) I think it could be really powerful for Sokka to try to be v masculine because of the way the war has broken his family/culture, then in becoming less sexist, he reclaims pre-war traditions (idk, I like the idea but doesn't work as direct allegory to real life as Fire Nation has female soldiers)

There is also a lot of value in seeing someone grapple with and overcome their sexist attitudes in a story. It's still relevant, maybe more relevant than when the animated show came out. ATLA is very good at having well-rounded male and female characters and showing that there're different ways to be strong/a leader/a boy/a girl

Alright now this pissed me off

What do you MEAN you're going to remove one of the most important aspects of Sokka's character arc in the first season? What do you MEAN you're going to remove Sokka unlearning misogyny, accepting change and embracing his role as a fighter and protector of the Avatar in order to end the war? What do you MEAN???

[kristenreviewsmedia]

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Realistic Fiction from Diverse Perspectives  The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie Alexie, S. (2007). The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. 3.5 Stars "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" is a coming-of-age novel by Sherman Alexie. Set on the Spokane Indian Reservation, the story follows Arnold Spirit Jr. or Junior.  Junior is faced with the harsh realities of poverty, alcoholism, and systemic racism, and he struggles to find his place in the world. The novel provides a candid and raw portrayal of life on the reservation, highlighting the challenges faced by Native American communities, including alcoholism, poverty, and systemic racism. 

Junior feels trapped by the limited opportunities available on the reservation because of the lack of opportunities and resources available to its members. So, he transfers to a predominantly white high school off the reservation. A choice that will bring both opportunities and challenges. Junior must navigate the unfamiliar territory of a new school, where he is ostracized and bullied, while also dealing with members of his tribe who view his decision as a betrayal and see this as him abandoning his heritage and turning his back on his community.

Despite the obstacles, Junior refuses to give up. With the support of his family, friends, and unexpected allies, Junior begins to carve out a path for himself, pursuing his passion for drawing and ultimately finding a sense of belonging and identity. This book is essential because literature has many white narratives; white experiences are often prioritized and centered as the norm. However, we must expand our horizons beyond only white authors as readers. Stories from marginalized communities tend to be marginalized or overlooked. Lack of representation can perpetuate stereotypes, reinforce inequalities, and contribute to a limited understanding of diverse experiences and perspectives. This book provides representation, raises awareness, fosters empowerment, and advocates for education. It is a powerful and meaningful narrative that resonates with Indigenous readers and helps others better understand different cultures and their aspects. Providing representation, raising awareness, fostering empowerment, promoting cultural pride, and advocating for education. It is a powerful and meaningful narrative that resonates with Indigenous readers and contributes to the conversation about Indigenous rights and representation.

Awards: National Book Award for Young People's Literature: 2007 American Indian Youth Literature Award: 2008 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award: 2008 California Young Reader Medal: 2009 Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Award: 2007

[alanlechuszaauthor]

Insights on Native Identity in Modern Literature Stories of Resilience and Cultural Renewal

Native identity is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been explored in various forms of literature. In modern literature, Indigenous authors have provided invaluable insights into the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Native peoples. These stories offer a window into the intricate journey of reclaiming and asserting Native identity in a world marked by historical injustices, cultural erasure, and the ongoing struggle for recognition. In this exploration of "Insights on Native Identity in Modern Literature," we will dive into some notable works and examine how they contribute to the broader narrative of Indigenous resilience and cultural renewal.

The Ongoing Struggle for Recognition

Native identity in modern literature often begins with the acknowledgment of the centuries-long struggle for recognition and sovereignty. Indigenous peoples have faced oppression, forced assimilation, and the loss of their lands, but they continue to assert their identities in profound ways. Works like "There, There" by Tommy Orange shed light on this ongoing struggle. In "There, There," Orange weaves together the stories of a diverse group of characters who share a common connection to an upcoming powwow in Oakland, California. Through their narratives, he explores the complexities of contemporary Native identity, showcasing the impact of historical trauma and displacement. Orange's novel is a powerful testament to the resilience of Native communities and the determination to reclaim their identities.

Cultural Renewal and Resurgence

Modern Indigenous literature also reflects the resurgence of cultural practices and the renewal of traditions that were once suppressed. Louise Erdrich's "The Round House" is a compelling example of this theme. Set on a North Dakota reservation, the novel explores the aftermath of a traumatic event and the role of traditional customs in the healing process. Erdrich's work highlights the importance of storytelling and rituals in maintaining Native identity. Through the protagonist, Joe, readers witness his journey of discovering his Ojibwe heritage and finding strength in his cultural roots. The novel celebrates the resilience of Native communities and their unwavering commitment to preserving their traditions.

Family and Community as Pillars of Identity

Native identity is deeply intertwined with the concept of family and community. In "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie, the protagonist, Junior, grapples with his identity as a Spokane Indian living on a reservation. He ultimately decides to attend a predominantly white high school outside the reservation, a choice that brings both opportunities and challenges. Alexie's novel emphasizes the significance of community ties and the complexities of navigating between different cultural worlds. Junior's journey highlights the importance of family, the role of mentors, and the resilience required to uphold Native identity amidst societal pressures.

Connection to the Land and Nature

The connection to the land and nature is a fundamental aspect of Native identity, and it is a recurring theme in modern Indigenous literature. Leslie Marmon Silko's "Ceremony" is a powerful exploration of this connection. Set in the Laguna Pueblo reservation in New Mexico, the novel follows Tayo, a World War II veteran who returns home carrying the psychological wounds of war. Silko's work delves into the spiritual relationship between Native people and the land, emphasizing the healing power of returning to one's cultural and natural roots. "Ceremony" serves as a testament to the enduring connection between Native identity and the environment, offering profound insights into the importance of preserving this bond.

Exploring the Intersectionality of Identity

Modern literature by Indigenous authors also delves into the intersectionality of identity. In "Heart Berries" by Terese Marie Mailhot, readers are introduced to the complex layers of Native identity through the author's personal memoir. Mailhot shares her experiences as a member of the Seabird Island Band, her struggle with mental health, and her journey to self-discovery. "Heart Berries" explores not only the challenges of Native identity but also the intersections of identity markers such as gender and mental health. This multi-dimensional narrative reflects the reality that Native identity is not monolithic but shaped by a myriad of experiences.

Resistance and Activism

Many works of modern Indigenous literature also highlight the themes of resistance and activism as integral components of Native identity. "An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States" by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz offers a comprehensive examination of Native resistance throughout U.S. history. Dunbar-Ortiz's book serves as a call to action, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the long history of Native resistance against colonization, forced assimilation, and land dispossession. It underscores the enduring strength of Native identity and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition.

Intersections of Traditional and Contemporary

Native identity in modern literature is often a dynamic fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. In "Monkey Beach" by Eden Robinson, readers are immersed in the life of Lisa, a Haisla woman in British Columbia. The novel explores her connection to traditional spirituality and the supernatural, while also addressing the challenges faced by the Haisla people in a contemporary world. Robinson's work beautifully captures the duality of Native identity, where ancestral traditions coexist with the demands and complexities of the present. "Monkey Beach" reveals the richness of this interplay and the resilience required to navigate these intersections.

The Evolving Narrative of Native Identity

Modern Indigenous literature offers invaluable insights into the ever-evolving narrative of Native identity. These literary works serve as a platform for Indigenous authors to reclaim, reshape, and share their stories. They shed light on the complexities of Native identity, including the struggles, resilience, cultural renewal, and enduring connections to the land and community.

Insights on Native identity in modern literature

As readers, we have the privilege of engaging with these narratives, learning from them, and contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of Native identity. By amplifying Indigenous voices in literature, we honor the diverse experiences and rich heritage of Native peoples while acknowledging the profound impact they continue to have on the literary world. Native identity in modern literature is not a static concept; it's a living, breathing testament to the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities.

[hussyknee]

Hi so because this post is ten years old none of the links work except the Hula Hands article. So I tracked them down and added them to my gdrive of decolonial academia.

The following are available in the Red Power folder:

Daniel M. Cobb (2016) Native Peoples of North America, The Teaching Company

Dina Gilio-Whitaker (2020) As Long as Grass Grows: The Indigenous Fight for Environmental Justice, Beacon Press

Glen Sean Coulthard (2014) Red Skin, White Masks: Rejecting the Colonial Politics of Recognition, University of Minnesota Press

Jessica Hernandez (2022) Fresh Banana Leaves: Healing Indigenous Landscapes through Indigenous Science, North Atlantic Books

Leanne Betasamosake Simpson (2017) As We Have Always Done: Indigenous Freedom through Radical Resistance, University of Minnesota Press

Leonard Peltier (1999) Prison Writings: My Life is My Sun Dance, St. Martin's Publishing Group

Linda Tuhiwai Smith (2012) Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples, Zed Books

Mary Crow Dog (1991) Lakota Woman, Harper Perennial

Nancy J. Turner (2014) Ancient Pathways, Ancestral Knowledge Ethnobotany and Ecological Wisdom of Indigenous Peoples, McGill-Queen's University Press

Nick Estes (2019) Our History Is the Future: Standing Rock Versus the Dakota Access Pipeline, and the Long Tradition of Indigenous Resistance, Verso Books

Robin Wall Kimmerer (2013) Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants, Milkweed Editions

Robin Wall Kimmerer (2001) Gathering Moss; A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses, Milkweed Editions

The Red Nation (2021) The Red Deal: Indigenous Action to Save Our Earth, Common Notions

Thomas Hylland Eriksen, Sanna and Jarno Valkonen (eds) (2018) Knowing from the Indigenous North: Sámi Approaches to History, Politics and Belonging, Routledge

Vine Deloria Jr. (1988) Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto, University of Oklahoma Press

Vine Deloria Jr. (1973) God Is Red: A Native View Of Religion, Fulcrum Publishing

Vine Deloria Jr. (1997) Red Earth, White Lies: Native Americans and the Myth of Scientific Fact, Fulcrum Publishing

Winona LaDuke (1999) All Our Relations: Native Struggles for Land and Life, South End Press

Sub-folder Red History:

Troy R. Johnson, (2007) Red Power: The Native American Civil Rights Movement (Landmark Events in Native American History), Chelsea House Pub

David Treuer (2019) The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to the Present, Little, Brown Book Group

Dee Brown (2017) The Native American Experience (Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee; Fetterman Massacre; Creek Mary’s Blood), Open Road Media

Dennis Banks, Richard Erdoes (2005) Ojibwa Warrior: Dennis Banks And The Rise Of The American Indian Movement, University of Oklahoma Press

K. Tsianina Lomawaima (1995) They Called It Prairie Light: The Story of Chilocco Indian School, University of Nebraska Press

Patrick Wolfe (1999) Settler Colonialism and the Transformation of Anthropology; The Politics and Poetics of an Ethnographic Event, Cassell

Peter Matthiessen (1992) In the Spirit of Crazy Horse: The Story of Leonard Peltier and FBI's War on the American Indian Movement, Penguin Books

Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz (2014) An Indigenous Peoples History of the United States, Beacon Press

Sarah Alisabeth Fox (2014) Downwind: A Peoples History of the Nuclear West, University of Nebraska Press

Ward Churchill (1997) A Little Matter of Genocide: Holocaust and Denial in the Americas 1492 to the Present, City Lights Books

Ward Churchill, Jim Vander Wall (1988) Agents of Repression: The FBI's Secret Wars Against the Black Panther Party and the American Indian Movement, South End Press

Articles and Zines:

Colonization and Decolonization: A Manual for Indigenous Liberation in the 21st Century, Warrior Publications (zine)

Headdress (2010) (zine)

Sherman Alexie (1993) Indian Education (short story)

Native American Struggles: Leonard Peltier and Norma Jean Croy, Social Justice Vol. 20, No. 1-2, Rethinking Race (Spring-Summer 1993), pp 172–175

Conger Beasley Jr. (1998) Looking for Leonard Peltier, North American Review, Vol. 283, pg 64–71

Andrea Smith (2003) Not an Indian Tradition: The Sexual Colonization of Native Peoples, Hypatia, Vol. 18, No. 2, Indigenous Women in the Americas, pp 70–85

Patrick Wolfe (2006) Settler Colonialism and the Elimination of the Native, Journal of Genocide Research, 8:4, 387–409

Troy R. Johnson (2009) Red Power and the American Indian Movement: Different Times, Different Places, Reviews in American History, Vol. 37, No. 3, pp 420–425

Danielle Endres (2011) American Indian Activism and Audience: Rhetorical Analysis of Leonard Peltier's Response to Denial of Clemency, Communication Reports, 24:1, pg 1–11

There are essential decolonial texts in the Decolonization folder, so look through them as well. I haven't read Guillaume Blanc and Hamza Hamouchene's books on Green Colonialism myself but the subject is a fascinating look at the ties between environmentalism and white supremacy and how Landback is tied to climate justice.

You can find The Schumacher Lectures here and buy The Ice Is Melting by Oren Lyons for USD 0.99.

As always, do try and support the authors if you have the resources to do so.

NATIVES READ TOO

NATIVES READ TOO

Browsing the internet, found some free PDFs to read:

Not an Indian Tradition: The Sexual Colonization of Native Peoples by Andrea Smith (article)«li

All Our Relations Native Struggles: Land and Life by Winona LaDuke

Lakote Woman by Mary Crow Dog

Lovely Hula Hands by Haunani Kay-Trask

Custer Died for Your Sins- An Indian Manifesto by Vine Deloria, Jr.

God Is Red: A Native View of Religion by Vine Deloria, Jr.

The Case of Leonard Peltier by Arthur J. Miller and Pio Celestino (zine)

Cultural Appropriation or Cultural Appreciation? (zine) 

Headdress (a small zine on native appropriation)

Colonization and Decolonization: A Manual for Indigenous Liberation in the 21st Century (zine)

Indian Education by Sherman Alexie

You have here, writings that detail Indigenous topics covering or in the style of: manifestos, creative writings, political, cultural, “feminist”, environment/ecosystems, and Natural Law. 

Enjoy the readings!

[the--art--of--reading]

book review + indigenous peoples day | The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Author: Sherman Alexie

Illustrator: Ellen Forney

Book Cover: Kirk Benshoff

Genre: Autobiographical, Young Adult, Humor

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sherman Alexie has mastered the art of writing a novel for young readers that is able to convey heavy topics without losing their interest. This book is unapologetic and honest. There is an abundance of content that so many preteens and teens can relate to (first loves, feeling out of place at school, sports). More importantly, however, there is content many of those readers have never been exposed to. This book is a great starting point for younger readers who want to get into books centered on BIPOC characters and their experiences.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day ⬇️

Beyond history and social studies classes, my knowledge of Native American culture and life of a reservation is limited. Alexie's firsthand account has made me realize that I need to work harder to seek out novels written by Native American authors. Our country’s narrative belongs to them as much as it does to all of us and my reading list has failed to reflect this (I have plans to fix this and you can send me suggestions by checking out the Book Recs tab on my page). I’m looking forward to celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ day by staying informed about the issues affecting this community and learning more about their customs and traditions from firsthand sources. 

[little--brittle]

So, if ever built, what will the United States Native American Genocide Memorial Museum contain? What will it exhibit? It will be one room; a 50 foot square with the same large photo filling the walls, ceiling, and floor. There will be only one visitor allowed at any one time. There will be no furniture. That one visitor will have to stand or sit on the floor, or lie on the floor, if they feel the need. That visitor must remain in that room for one hour. There will be no music. The only soundtrack will be random gunshots from rifles used throughout American history. Reverberation. What will that one photo be? It will be an Indian baby, shredded by a Gatling gun, lying dead and bloody in the snow.

Sherman Alexie, You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me