Lecture on Images of American Indians

Introduction

• Topic: Exploration of images and stereotypes of American Indians
• Key Imagery: Feathers, braids, beads, buckskin, warrior, chief, princess, squaw, Indian giver
• Metaphor: These images are like invisible wallpaper, pervasive yet unnoticed in shaping perceptions

Personal Connection

• Presenter: An American Indian from the Chiricahua Apaches
• Cultural Leaders: Geronimo, Cochise, Naichi, Lozen
• Challenge: Breaking stereotypes of Indian appearance (e.g., braids, buckskin)

Reality vs Fiction

• Urban Indians: Many American Indians live in urban areas (e.g., 100,000 in New York City, 33,000 in Albuquerque)
• Diversity: American Indians are diverse, not homogeneous, representing 562 sovereign nations
• Stereotypes vs Reality: Confusion and harm arise when fictional images replace reality

Cultural Appropriation

• Observations: Youth culture appropriates Indian imagery during Halloween, sports events, concerts
• Comparison: Discontinuation of dressing as Aunt Jemima vs. continued Indian dress-up

Research Findings

• Image Search Experiment:
  • "Hispanic girl" – Positive, empowering images
  • "African American girl" – Confident images
  • "American Indian girl" – Sexualized, demeaning images
• Victimization: American Indian women face high rates of sexual and physical abuse
  • 1 in 3 will be raped in her lifetime

Media Influence

• Imagery and Harm: Difficult to prove direct cause, but clear sexualization and harm
• Historical Context: US government's history of abuse against Native women
• Recent Examples: Companies like Paul Frank, No Doubt, Victoria's Secret have used sacred imagery inappropriately

Call to Action

• Education: Demeaning images and attitudes are learned behaviors
• Parental Responsibility: Avoid allowing children to participate in stereotypical Indian-themed activities
• Social Responsibility: Challenge cultural appropriations, choose to buy from Native sources
• Consideration and Conversation: Think Indian, consider Native perspectives, challenge assumed wisdoms

Conclusion

• Objective: Think twice, speak out, educate oneself, and have meaningful conversations
• Final Thought: Recognize the multi-dimensional identity and contributions of Native individuals beyond stereotypes