Member-only story

American Indian Boarding School Literature: Uncovering the Hidden Histories with "SUNY Native Traces"

Jeffrey Cox

·2.3k Followers· Follow

Published in Changed Forever Volume I: American Indian Boarding School Literature (SUNY Native Traces)

5 min read · 2 weeks before

725 View Claps

49 Respond

Save

Listen

In the annals of American history, the boarding school era stands as a somber chapter, particularly for Native American communities. These institutions, often euphemistically referred to as "Indian schools," were designed to assimilate Native children into white society, forcibly severing them from their cultural heritage and families.

The profound impact of boarding schools on Native individuals, families, and communities has been meticulously documented in literature. "SUNY Native Traces," a groundbreaking anthology edited by scholars Neil McKay and Jennifer Round, offers a comprehensive exploration of this literary genre.

Changed Forever Volume I: American Indian Boarding School Literature (SUNY Native Traces)

Changed Forever, Volume I: American Indian Boarding-School Literature (SUNY series, Native Traces)

by Arnold Krupat

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9120 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	406 pages

A Haunting Legacy: The Scope and Impact of Boarding Schools

American Indian boarding schools emerged in the late 19th century, driven by a misguided belief in the superiority of white culture. These institutions sought to "civilize" Native children, stripping them of their traditional beliefs, languages, and practices.

The consequences of this cultural genocide were far-reaching. Students endured physical and emotional abuse, neglect, and harsh punishments. They were forbidden from speaking their native languages or practicing their traditional customs, leading to a profound sense of cultural loss and alienation.

Literary Echoes of Trauma and Resilience

American Indian boarding school literature emerged as a powerful voice for survivors, providing a platform to share their experiences and reclaim their identities. In "SUNY Native Traces," readers encounter a diverse range of literary works that explore the complex emotions and lasting effects of boarding schools.

Through memoirs, novels, poetry, and plays, authors such as Sherman Alexie, Louise Erdrich, and Joy Harjo vividly portray the horrors of boarding schools while also celebrating the resilience and strength of Native survivors.

Uncovering Multiple Perspectives

"SUNY Native Traces" distinguishes itself by presenting a wide range of perspectives on boarding schools, including those of students, survivors, educators, and scholars. This multifaceted approach provides a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics within these institutions.

By incorporating historical documents, oral histories, and contemporary critical analyses, the anthology illuminates the broader sociopolitical context that shaped boarding schools and their enduring legacy.

Examining Historical Roots and Contemporary Resonances

"SUNY Native Traces" not only delves into the historical experiences of boarding schools but also examines their ongoing repercussions. Authors explore how the trauma inflicted on Native individuals and communities continues to manifest in contemporary society.

The anthology highlights the need for ongoing dialogue, healing, and reconciliation, advocating for the recognition of the lasting impact of boarding schools and the empowerment of Native communities.

A Call to Witness and Action

"SUNY Native Traces" is more than just a literary anthology; it is a call to witness and a catalyst for action. By shedding light on the horrors of boarding schools and their profound impact, the book urges readers to confront the legacy of cultural oppression and work towards reconciliation.

Through its diverse and powerful voices, the anthology empowers readers to advocate for the rights of Native communities, support healing initiatives, and promote a society that respects the diversity and resilience of Indigenous cultures.

American Indian boarding school literature, as exemplified in "SUNY Native Traces," is an essential body of work that demands our attention. By confronting the hidden histories and lasting impacts of boarding schools, we can contribute to a more just and equitable society that honors the dignity and resilience of Native American communities.

Through the power of literature, "SUNY Native Traces" invites us to bear witness, to learn, and to work towards a future where the traumas of the past no longer haunt the present.

Changed Forever, Volume I: American Indian Boarding-School Literature (SUNY series, Native Traces)

by Arnold Krupat

4 out of 5