History and Policies: Long history of poor treatment and broken treaties between the US government and Native American tribes.
Sovereignty: Reservations are sovereign nations within the state, subject to federal but not necessarily state laws.
Historical Context
Early Policies: White settlers imposed laws to assimilate and regulate American Indians, stripping away their culture and traditions.
Termination Policy (1950s): Aimed to eliminate tribes, successfully resisted by Montana tribes.
Relocation Program: Moved Native Americans from reservations to urban areas, often leading to further hardships.
Personal Stories: The Juneau Family
Stan Juneau
Born in Browning, Blackfeet Indian tribe.
Advised against college, attended vocational school (Haskell) instead.
Graduated in business, relocated to Oakland, met Carol.
Carol Juneau
BIA Vocational Training School in early 1960s.
BIA's termination policy led to relocation to urban areas for better employment, but often resulted in poverty.
Faced discrimination in housing and employment.
Impact of Relocation
Cultural Impact: Attempt to destroy Native culture and language, but led to strengthened cultural identity in urban Indian communities.
Employment and Housing: Low-paying jobs, housing discrimination, unprepared for urban life.
Political and Social Movements
American Indian Movement (AIM): Parallel to other civil rights movements (Black Panthers, Chicanos), AIM fought for Indian rights and pride.
Legislation: Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, Indian Education Act of 1972.
Education and Advocacy
Stan's Role: Became a high school counselor, promoted higher education for Indian students, encouraged return to teach in reservations.
Denise Juneau: Emphasized the importance of understanding Native history omitted from education, Indian power, and cultural pride.
Political Involvement
Carol Juneau: State legislator, advocates for Indian representation in decision-making at all government levels.
Future Outlook
Stan Juneau: Optimistic about future generations bringing economic development and environmental preservation to reservations.
Carol and Denise Juneau: Emphasize the need for continued progress, education, and political involvement to improve opportunities for Native Americans.
Conclusion
Sovereignty and Tension: Ongoing tension between US government and sovereign tribal nations, necessary for education and understanding of Native rights and identity.
Self-Determination: Time for Native Americans to assume power positions and decide their future without external imposition.