Americans pride themselves on being individualistic nonconformists. No self-appointed hereditary leaders (aka royalty) can tell us what to do. Our ancestors rebelled against the Crown Heads of Europe to establish an elective Democracy. We have the freedom to think, say and do almost anything. We are the champions of our own destiny. Right? Ha-ha-ha!
Many citizens of the United States of America suffer from the delusion of individualism. Perhaps a few self-sufficient hermits reside in the countryside qualify but they are an exception. We are interdependent upon others for electricity, clean water, food, waste removal, security, and every other variable of life. Perhaps you can grow your own calories during the warm months. The remainder of the time you must rely upon farmers, processing facilities, and the distribution system.
We are all interconnected. What affects one person affects everyone else. It may not be readily apparent but the whole concept of six degrees of separation is actually a lot closer. Social media shortens the gap. I know that people from around the world read this blog, which boggles my mind. We may never speak in person but somehow my odd life affects the reader’s life. If only to make you smile or laugh for a moment, we are linked. I am honored when people “Friend” me on Facebook because then I can learn more about their lives and make a closer connection. I have a couple Facebook Friends who have a parent with Alzheimer’s. When they write about their sadness, I understand completely. I may never have the opportunity to meet them but we are united in our loss.
I grew up with the concept of “All My Relations.” My grandfather and Dakota (Native American) kin emphasized that we are inextricably joined together. Of course, you have blood-kin who share your DNA and concern extends to others in the neighborhood (your band) and community (the tribal nation). But it doesn’t end there. Relationships broaden to all the affiliated tribal nations and beyond to ALL. ALL as in every creature, plant, and everything seen and unseen.
ALL is sacred, ALL is linked. Every single molecule, atom, quark, and components smaller than the most powerful microscope can examine. Matter, dark matter, its ALL bonded. The connectedness is wider than the sky, beyond what our telescopes can view. Humans are just one type of animal but we are aware. We can wax philosophically. I am thrilled that CERN scientists are proving the All My Relations concept with the Higgs-Boson Particle. It is what many indigenous cultures have taught, long before any written language was created. We are one; one is all. We all have to care about each other and everything seen and unseen. Period. End of Discussion. What have you done to help All Your/Mine/Our Relations today?
ALL is we.
Copyright © 2013 by Ima B. Musing; All rights reserved.
Showing posts with label Native American Indian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Native American Indian. Show all posts
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
FOR THE CHILDREN
The wounds run deep with horrific consequences in the Native American Indian community, regardless of where the descendent resides. Fear and pain cause negative behavior resulting in deplorable statistics. At one time, we were 100% of the continent’s population but oppression began as soon as the first settler declared the land as theirs.
The resulting systematic genocidal effort significantly shrunk the Native American population. The Indian Residential Boarding School System wrought some of the deepest and continuing tragedies. Armando Gutierrez G., a powerful artist, challenged me to explore the issue further. I had been stating that some members of the Native American community are dealing with “Suppressed Sorrow” but it may be a more intensive “Paralyzing Pain/Fear” due to the generational trauma. Extreme stress may render a person helpless, they are not able to think clearly or make good decisions.
Everyone reacts to trauma differently, it is important not to over-generalize. Not every Native American was directly affected by the Indian Residential Boarding School System. Not every Native American cares about it. However, a significant number of Native Americans are trying to live with the aftereffects of the trauma. Sadly, the pain and fear will continue to burden future generations unless we boldly expose the truth and seek reconciliation for ourselves. Everyone is cordially invited to join our petition on Facebook. We welcome all supporters to establish this effort throughout the United States of America. It’s for the children.
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801
Mr. Guiterrez’s website is AgutierrezG.com He is interested in learning about Clan Mothers.
Save the Children!
© Copyright 2013 Ima B. Musing: all rights reserved.
The resulting systematic genocidal effort significantly shrunk the Native American population. The Indian Residential Boarding School System wrought some of the deepest and continuing tragedies. Armando Gutierrez G., a powerful artist, challenged me to explore the issue further. I had been stating that some members of the Native American community are dealing with “Suppressed Sorrow” but it may be a more intensive “Paralyzing Pain/Fear” due to the generational trauma. Extreme stress may render a person helpless, they are not able to think clearly or make good decisions.
Everyone reacts to trauma differently, it is important not to over-generalize. Not every Native American was directly affected by the Indian Residential Boarding School System. Not every Native American cares about it. However, a significant number of Native Americans are trying to live with the aftereffects of the trauma. Sadly, the pain and fear will continue to burden future generations unless we boldly expose the truth and seek reconciliation for ourselves. Everyone is cordially invited to join our petition on Facebook. We welcome all supporters to establish this effort throughout the United States of America. It’s for the children.
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801
Mr. Guiterrez’s website is AgutierrezG.com He is interested in learning about Clan Mothers.
Save the Children!
© Copyright 2013 Ima B. Musing: all rights reserved.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION COMMISSION USA PETITION GRASSROOTS
Be a champion for truth and reconciliation. Talk to your family, friends, neighbors, and anyone who will listen. Explain to them that establishing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA (TRC USA) will benefit everyone. Truth and Reconciliation is an arduous process. It will expose painful memories and the results of genocide. We want to open the painful wound, clean it with TRUTH, and begin healing it with RECONCILIATION. The scar will remain but future generations of Native American Indians will not have to bear the burden of suppressed sorrow. We have a responsibility to make the world a better place for them.
Contact elders, tribal, community and faith leaders, and elected/appointed officials. Send faxes to the President of the United States, and Members of the United States Congress (best way to contact them). Visit or write your Governor, State Representative and State Senator. Ask your City Council and Mayor to support the TRC USA. Contact social justice activists. You are the grassroots. You are the agent of change. Your voice matters! Follow your heart and help the children. Too many members of the Native American community suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to direct or generational harm caused in part by the Indian Residential Boarding School (IRBS) system. This horrific legacy will continue unless we take responsibility to alter its path. We welcome non-Native people who wish to help our cause.
Please submit this RESOLUTION when attending your local Political Convention:
WHEREAS a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will be established, and;
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Commission will contribute to truth, healing, and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America, and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: the Commission will be established before the start of fiscal year 2016 and begin public proceedings no later than 2018.
We can’t be intimidated by the prospect of upsetting the proverbial “boat.” The boat is rotting and we have to save our children and future generations from drowning, we have already lost too many. Politics exist whenever two or more people are involved. Add in generational trauma, intense emotions with pain/fear and the political process can seem overwhelming. The journey of a nation-wide Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be fraught with politics. We have to keep our eyes upon the goal of acknowledging the injustices and harms experienced by Native American people and the need for continued healing for a brighter future.
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join and share our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801
Peace to all.
© Copyright 2013 Ima B. Musing: all rights reserved.
Contact elders, tribal, community and faith leaders, and elected/appointed officials. Send faxes to the President of the United States, and Members of the United States Congress (best way to contact them). Visit or write your Governor, State Representative and State Senator. Ask your City Council and Mayor to support the TRC USA. Contact social justice activists. You are the grassroots. You are the agent of change. Your voice matters! Follow your heart and help the children. Too many members of the Native American community suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to direct or generational harm caused in part by the Indian Residential Boarding School (IRBS) system. This horrific legacy will continue unless we take responsibility to alter its path. We welcome non-Native people who wish to help our cause.
Please submit this RESOLUTION when attending your local Political Convention:
WHEREAS a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will be established, and;
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Commission will contribute to truth, healing, and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America, and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: the Commission will be established before the start of fiscal year 2016 and begin public proceedings no later than 2018.
We can’t be intimidated by the prospect of upsetting the proverbial “boat.” The boat is rotting and we have to save our children and future generations from drowning, we have already lost too many. Politics exist whenever two or more people are involved. Add in generational trauma, intense emotions with pain/fear and the political process can seem overwhelming. The journey of a nation-wide Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be fraught with politics. We have to keep our eyes upon the goal of acknowledging the injustices and harms experienced by Native American people and the need for continued healing for a brighter future.
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join and share our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801
Peace to all.
© Copyright 2013 Ima B. Musing: all rights reserved.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
KIND HEARTED WOMAN AND TRC USA
Kind Hearted Woman is a compelling documentary of Robin Poor Bear and her family’s journey. It recently aired on PBS and exemplifies why we need a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA (TRC USA). More information at the end of this blog.
Tragic is the legacy wrought by the Indian Residential Boarding School system. Children were torn from their families and traumatized across the United States of America. A courageous group of people in the state of Maine is leading the USA in this matter. They want to open the painful wound, clean it with truth, and heal it with reconciliation. The scar will remain but future generations will not have to bear the burden of suppressed sorrow. We have a responsibility to make the world a better place for them.
The Maine Wabanaki-State Child Welfare Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) site states:
* The United States government has tried many different ways to solve what they called “the Indian problem” - stealing land, killing off entire tribes by war and disease and by taking Indian children away from their families and communities.
* In the 1800’s, different church groups with the support of the government took Indian children and sent them to boarding schools far away from their communities where they couldn’t speak their own language, wear their own clothes or practice their own religion. They also treated Indian children badly, abusing them physically, emotionally and sexually. Many of these children died. The ones who made it home after years in these schools were not the same as when they left.
* In the 1950’s, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Child Welfare League of America did an experiment where they took hundreds of Indian children from their families to raise them in white homes, thinking it was better for them.
* In Maine, Indian children were taken from their families and placed in white foster homes at a higher rate than most other states.
* In 1978, the federal government passed a law called the Indian Child Welfare Act that gave Indian children more protection and recognized a child’s tribal citizenship is as important as their family relationship. Maine child welfare has been working with Wabanaki tribes to have an improved relationship and to work better with Wabanaki people. A lot of progress has been made, but there are still some problems. This TRC will identify the problems and make suggestions to help fix these problems. (Maine Tribal TRC, 2013)
More details are at www.mainetribaltrc.org Please note that many Boarding schools remained open until the 1980s and many children remain in non-tribal foster care.
Part of the process is community dialogue. You can begin the progression by holding a community event. It will take a lot of audacity and planning to air out the painful truth of the boarding school legacy. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has created an excellent guide for community events at:
www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/File/pdfs/TRC_Comm_Events%20Guide_en_mar10.pdf
I am certain that they would connect you with a mentor in Canada who would be willing to provide guidance for your own community gathering.
Suppressed sorrow statistics were published in the March 21, 2013 and a potential proposal for the TRC USA is posted on March 22, 2013 blog entry.
You are cordially invited to join and advertise our effort -
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please JOIN our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
Peace be with you.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Tragic is the legacy wrought by the Indian Residential Boarding School system. Children were torn from their families and traumatized across the United States of America. A courageous group of people in the state of Maine is leading the USA in this matter. They want to open the painful wound, clean it with truth, and heal it with reconciliation. The scar will remain but future generations will not have to bear the burden of suppressed sorrow. We have a responsibility to make the world a better place for them.
The Maine Wabanaki-State Child Welfare Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) site states:
* The United States government has tried many different ways to solve what they called “the Indian problem” - stealing land, killing off entire tribes by war and disease and by taking Indian children away from their families and communities.
* In the 1800’s, different church groups with the support of the government took Indian children and sent them to boarding schools far away from their communities where they couldn’t speak their own language, wear their own clothes or practice their own religion. They also treated Indian children badly, abusing them physically, emotionally and sexually. Many of these children died. The ones who made it home after years in these schools were not the same as when they left.
* In the 1950’s, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Child Welfare League of America did an experiment where they took hundreds of Indian children from their families to raise them in white homes, thinking it was better for them.
* In Maine, Indian children were taken from their families and placed in white foster homes at a higher rate than most other states.
* In 1978, the federal government passed a law called the Indian Child Welfare Act that gave Indian children more protection and recognized a child’s tribal citizenship is as important as their family relationship. Maine child welfare has been working with Wabanaki tribes to have an improved relationship and to work better with Wabanaki people. A lot of progress has been made, but there are still some problems. This TRC will identify the problems and make suggestions to help fix these problems. (Maine Tribal TRC, 2013)
More details are at www.mainetribaltrc.org Please note that many Boarding schools remained open until the 1980s and many children remain in non-tribal foster care.
Part of the process is community dialogue. You can begin the progression by holding a community event. It will take a lot of audacity and planning to air out the painful truth of the boarding school legacy. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has created an excellent guide for community events at:
www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/File/pdfs/TRC_Comm_Events%20Guide_en_mar10.pdf
I am certain that they would connect you with a mentor in Canada who would be willing to provide guidance for your own community gathering.
Suppressed sorrow statistics were published in the March 21, 2013 and a potential proposal for the TRC USA is posted on March 22, 2013 blog entry.
You are cordially invited to join and advertise our effort -
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please JOIN our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
Peace be with you.
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Thursday, March 21, 2013
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION COMMISSION USA PETITION
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
* * * * * PROPOSAL DRAFT * * * * *
The following mandate proposal is adapted from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The terminology of “Native American” will be used in reference to all Indigenous Aboriginal Native American Indian Nations and Native Alaskans, enrolled and un-enrolled descendents as well as indigenous peoples of United States of America (USA) Territories who were affected by the Indian Residential Boarding School system. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will be referred to as the “Commission.”
INTRODUCTION: (Draft)
There is an emerging and compelling desire to put the events of the past behind us so that we can work towards a stronger and healthier future. The truth telling and reconciliation process as part of an overall holistic and comprehensive response to the Indian Residential Boarding School legacy is a sincere indication and acknowledgement of the injustices and harms experienced by Native American people and the need for continued healing. This is a profound commitment to establishing new relationships embedded in mutual recognition and respect that will forge a brighter future. The truth of our common experiences will help set our spirits free and pave the way to reconciliation.
PRINCIPLES: (Draft)
Through the Agreement*, the Parties* have agreed that an historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America (USA) will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will build upon the principles are as follows: accessible; victim-centered; confidentiality (if required by the former student); do no harm; health and safety of participants; representative; public/transparent; accountable; open and honorable process; comprehensive; inclusive, educational, holistic, just and fair; respectful; voluntary; flexible; and forward looking in terms of rebuilding and renewing relationships and the relationship between Native American and non-Native Americans.
Reconciliation is an ongoing individual and collective process, and will require commitment from all those affected including former Indian Residential Boarding School (IRBS) students, their families, communities, faith-based entities, former school employees, government, and the people of the United States of America. Reconciliation may occur between any of the above groups.
TERMS OF REFERENCE:
GOALS (Draft)
The goals of the Commission shall be to:
(a) Acknowledge the Indian Residential Boarding School experiences, impacts and consequences;
(b) Provide a holistic, culturally appropriate and safe setting for former students, their families and communities as they come forward to the Commission;
(c) Witness, support, promote and facilitate truth and reconciliation events at both the national and community levels;
(d) Promote awareness and public education of all Americans about the IRBS system and its impacts;
(e) Identify sources and create as complete an historical record as possible of the IRBS system and legacy. The record shall be preserved and made accessible to the public for future study and use;
(f) Produce and submit to the Parties of the Agreement* a report including recommendations* to the Government of the United States of America concerning the IRBS system and experience including: the history, purpose, operation and supervision of the IRBS system, the effect and consequences of IRBS (including systemic harms, intergenerational consequences and the impact on human dignity) and the ongoing legacy of the residential boarding schools; and,
(g) Support commemoration of former Indian Residential Boarding School students and their families in accordance with the Commemoration Policy Directive.*
* = to be determined
* * * * * END OF DRAFT * * * * *
Resources:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, more information at their inspirational website: http://www.trc.ca
The state of Maine leads the way in the United States: http://www.mainetribaltrc.org
Healing Lodge Flag is available at: http://www.manataka.org/page450.html
Flag is copyrighted by the © Manataka American Indian Council. All rights reserved.
Personal Note:
I seek to promote the establishment of the Commission. It will be a long, complicated, and difficult task. I hope that a nonprofit organization will take leadership of the effort.
Peace to All My Relations
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
* * * * * PROPOSAL DRAFT * * * * *
The following mandate proposal is adapted from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The terminology of “Native American” will be used in reference to all Indigenous Aboriginal Native American Indian Nations and Native Alaskans, enrolled and un-enrolled descendents as well as indigenous peoples of United States of America (USA) Territories who were affected by the Indian Residential Boarding School system. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will be referred to as the “Commission.”
INTRODUCTION: (Draft)
There is an emerging and compelling desire to put the events of the past behind us so that we can work towards a stronger and healthier future. The truth telling and reconciliation process as part of an overall holistic and comprehensive response to the Indian Residential Boarding School legacy is a sincere indication and acknowledgement of the injustices and harms experienced by Native American people and the need for continued healing. This is a profound commitment to establishing new relationships embedded in mutual recognition and respect that will forge a brighter future. The truth of our common experiences will help set our spirits free and pave the way to reconciliation.
PRINCIPLES: (Draft)
Through the Agreement*, the Parties* have agreed that an historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America (USA) will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will build upon the principles are as follows: accessible; victim-centered; confidentiality (if required by the former student); do no harm; health and safety of participants; representative; public/transparent; accountable; open and honorable process; comprehensive; inclusive, educational, holistic, just and fair; respectful; voluntary; flexible; and forward looking in terms of rebuilding and renewing relationships and the relationship between Native American and non-Native Americans.
Reconciliation is an ongoing individual and collective process, and will require commitment from all those affected including former Indian Residential Boarding School (IRBS) students, their families, communities, faith-based entities, former school employees, government, and the people of the United States of America. Reconciliation may occur between any of the above groups.
TERMS OF REFERENCE:
GOALS (Draft)
The goals of the Commission shall be to:
(a) Acknowledge the Indian Residential Boarding School experiences, impacts and consequences;
(b) Provide a holistic, culturally appropriate and safe setting for former students, their families and communities as they come forward to the Commission;
(c) Witness, support, promote and facilitate truth and reconciliation events at both the national and community levels;
(d) Promote awareness and public education of all Americans about the IRBS system and its impacts;
(e) Identify sources and create as complete an historical record as possible of the IRBS system and legacy. The record shall be preserved and made accessible to the public for future study and use;
(f) Produce and submit to the Parties of the Agreement* a report including recommendations* to the Government of the United States of America concerning the IRBS system and experience including: the history, purpose, operation and supervision of the IRBS system, the effect and consequences of IRBS (including systemic harms, intergenerational consequences and the impact on human dignity) and the ongoing legacy of the residential boarding schools; and,
(g) Support commemoration of former Indian Residential Boarding School students and their families in accordance with the Commemoration Policy Directive.*
* = to be determined
* * * * * END OF DRAFT * * * * *
Resources:Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, more information at their inspirational website: http://www.trc.ca
The state of Maine leads the way in the United States: http://www.mainetribaltrc.org
Healing Lodge Flag is available at: http://www.manataka.org/page450.html
Flag is copyrighted by the © Manataka American Indian Council. All rights reserved.
Personal Note:
I seek to promote the establishment of the Commission. It will be a long, complicated, and difficult task. I hope that a nonprofit organization will take leadership of the effort.
Peace to All My Relations
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
WHY WE NEED TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
Due to the complexities of correlating information from 565 federally recognized tribes in 35 states in the Unites States of America, it is extremely difficult to locate statistics. The following are some of the most shocking numbers. The term Native American Indian refers to all American Indian and Alaskan Native populations. Nearly 30% of Native American Indians lived in poverty in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding rate was 15.9 %.
Nearly 28% of Native American Indians (NAI) lacked health insurance coverage in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding percentage was 15.1 %. This is one factor leading to major health disparities. Alcoholism mortality rates are 514 % higher than the general population. Suicide rates are more than double, and NAI teens experience the highest rate of suicide of any population group in the United States. Diabetes incidence is 177 % higher, with the highest rate of type 2 diabetes of any specific population in the United States. Tuberculosis incidence is 500 % higher.
Native American Indian youth attain the lowest level of education of any racial or ethnic group in the United States. Graduation rates for NAI high school students hover around 50% nationwide, as compared to over 75% for caucasian students.
These depressing statistics are due, in part, to the terrible legacy of the Indian Residential Boarding School system. The IRBS broke apart families and communities and we are living with the tragic legacy. The establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will open the dialogue and lead to healing. The truth must be spoken to heal the pain in Indian Country. It doesn’t matter where the Native American Indian descendent resides, the healing process affects us all. Healing will move the statistics in a more positive direction. Improve the 2020 Census by establishing a Commission!
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
* * * * * STATISTICS * * * * *
Listed below is a brief review of verifiable facts. If more recent statistics are available, please send me a message with a link to the statistics. Please note that the term Native American Indian is interchangeable with American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/NA). Thank you!
Population:
5.1 million
As of the 2011 American Community Survey, the nation’s population of American Indians and Alaska Natives, including those of more than one race. They made up 1.6 percent of the total population. Of this total, about half were American Indian and Alaska Native only, and about half were American Indian and Alaska Native in combination with one or more other races.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~009
8.6 million
The projected population of American Indians and Alaska Natives, including those of more than one race, on July 1, 2050. They would comprise 2 percent of the total population.
Source: Population projections
http://www.census.gov/population/www/projections/summarytables.html
Income and Poverty:
$35,192
The median income of American Indian and Alaska Native alone households in 2011. This compares with $50,502 for the nation as a whole.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~006
29.5%
The percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives alone that were in poverty in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding rate was 15.9 percent.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~006
Health Insurance:
27.6%
The percentage of American Indians and Alaska Natives alone who lacked health insurance coverage in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding percentage was 15.1 percent.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~006
[Lack of health insurance] is one factor leading to major health disparities among the American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) population:
* Alcoholism mortality rates are 514 percent higher than the general population.
* Suicide rates are more than double, and Native teens experience the highest rate of suicide of any population group in the United States.
* Diabetes incidence is 177 percent higher, with the highest rate of type 2 diabetes of any specific population in the U.S.
* Tuberculosis incidence is 500 percent higher.
Statistics on Native American Youth:
*According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 16 percent of students at Bureau of Indian Affairs schools in 2001 reported having attempted suicide in the preceding 12 months.
* About 2 percent of US children are American Indian/Alaska Native, but AI/ANs represent 8.4 percent of the children in foster care. (NICWA. & Kids Are Waiting, 2007)
* AI/AN youth are arrested at a rate of 3 times the national average, and 79% of youth in the Federal Bureau of Prison’s custody are AI/AN. (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2004)
* Violence, including intentional injuries, homicide and suicide account for 75% of deaths for AI/AN youth age 12-20.
* AI/ANs attain the lowest level of education of any racial or ethnic group in the United States. Graduation rates for AI/AN high school students hover around 50% nationwide, as compared to over 75% for white students. (NIEA)
* Adolescent AI/ANs have death rates 2 to 5 times the rate of Whites in the same age group (SAMHSA), resulting from higher levels of suicide and a variety of risky behaviors.
* Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death – and 2.5 times the national rate – for AI/AN youth in the 15-24 age group.
* 22% of females and 12% of males reported to have attempted suicide, while 5% had serious thoughts of suicide in the past year.
* The reported rate of binge alcohol use over the past month was higher among AI/AN adults than the national average (30.6 percent vs. 24.5 percent). (SAMHSA)
* Only 1 in 8 (12.6 percent) of AI/AN adults (24,000 people) in need of alcohol or illicit drug use treatment in the past year received treatment at a specialty facility.
Sources:
“American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month: November 2012” http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/pdf/cb12ff-22_aian.pdf
- and -
“Fast Facts on Native American Youth and Indian Country” http://www.aspeninstitute.org/sites/default/files/content/upload/1302012%20Fast%20Facts.pdf
********** END OF FACTS ***********
Please join our Petition!
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Nearly 28% of Native American Indians (NAI) lacked health insurance coverage in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding percentage was 15.1 %. This is one factor leading to major health disparities. Alcoholism mortality rates are 514 % higher than the general population. Suicide rates are more than double, and NAI teens experience the highest rate of suicide of any population group in the United States. Diabetes incidence is 177 % higher, with the highest rate of type 2 diabetes of any specific population in the United States. Tuberculosis incidence is 500 % higher.
Native American Indian youth attain the lowest level of education of any racial or ethnic group in the United States. Graduation rates for NAI high school students hover around 50% nationwide, as compared to over 75% for caucasian students.
These depressing statistics are due, in part, to the terrible legacy of the Indian Residential Boarding School system. The IRBS broke apart families and communities and we are living with the tragic legacy. The establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will open the dialogue and lead to healing. The truth must be spoken to heal the pain in Indian Country. It doesn’t matter where the Native American Indian descendent resides, the healing process affects us all. Healing will move the statistics in a more positive direction. Improve the 2020 Census by establishing a Commission!
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
* * * * * STATISTICS * * * * *
Listed below is a brief review of verifiable facts. If more recent statistics are available, please send me a message with a link to the statistics. Please note that the term Native American Indian is interchangeable with American Indian and Alaskan Native (AI/NA). Thank you!
Population:
5.1 million
As of the 2011 American Community Survey, the nation’s population of American Indians and Alaska Natives, including those of more than one race. They made up 1.6 percent of the total population. Of this total, about half were American Indian and Alaska Native only, and about half were American Indian and Alaska Native in combination with one or more other races.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~009
8.6 million
The projected population of American Indians and Alaska Natives, including those of more than one race, on July 1, 2050. They would comprise 2 percent of the total population.
Source: Population projections
http://www.census.gov/population/www/projections/summarytables.html
Income and Poverty:
$35,192
The median income of American Indian and Alaska Native alone households in 2011. This compares with $50,502 for the nation as a whole.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~006
29.5%
The percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives alone that were in poverty in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding rate was 15.9 percent.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~006
Health Insurance:
27.6%
The percentage of American Indians and Alaska Natives alone who lacked health insurance coverage in 2011. For the nation as a whole, the corresponding percentage was 15.1 percent.
Source: 2011 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/11_1YR/S0201//popgroup~006
[Lack of health insurance] is one factor leading to major health disparities among the American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) population:
* Alcoholism mortality rates are 514 percent higher than the general population.
* Suicide rates are more than double, and Native teens experience the highest rate of suicide of any population group in the United States.
* Diabetes incidence is 177 percent higher, with the highest rate of type 2 diabetes of any specific population in the U.S.
* Tuberculosis incidence is 500 percent higher.
Statistics on Native American Youth:
*According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 16 percent of students at Bureau of Indian Affairs schools in 2001 reported having attempted suicide in the preceding 12 months.
* About 2 percent of US children are American Indian/Alaska Native, but AI/ANs represent 8.4 percent of the children in foster care. (NICWA. & Kids Are Waiting, 2007)
* AI/AN youth are arrested at a rate of 3 times the national average, and 79% of youth in the Federal Bureau of Prison’s custody are AI/AN. (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2004)
* Violence, including intentional injuries, homicide and suicide account for 75% of deaths for AI/AN youth age 12-20.
* AI/ANs attain the lowest level of education of any racial or ethnic group in the United States. Graduation rates for AI/AN high school students hover around 50% nationwide, as compared to over 75% for white students. (NIEA)
* Adolescent AI/ANs have death rates 2 to 5 times the rate of Whites in the same age group (SAMHSA), resulting from higher levels of suicide and a variety of risky behaviors.
* Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death – and 2.5 times the national rate – for AI/AN youth in the 15-24 age group.
* 22% of females and 12% of males reported to have attempted suicide, while 5% had serious thoughts of suicide in the past year.
* The reported rate of binge alcohol use over the past month was higher among AI/AN adults than the national average (30.6 percent vs. 24.5 percent). (SAMHSA)
* Only 1 in 8 (12.6 percent) of AI/AN adults (24,000 people) in need of alcohol or illicit drug use treatment in the past year received treatment at a specialty facility.
Sources:
“American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month: November 2012” http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/pdf/cb12ff-22_aian.pdf
- and -
“Fast Facts on Native American Youth and Indian Country” http://www.aspeninstitute.org/sites/default/files/content/upload/1302012%20Fast%20Facts.pdf
********** END OF FACTS ***********
Please join our Petition!
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Saturday, February 9, 2013
MY NATIVE TRUTH
The only way to heal is to clean out the wound, otherwise it festers and becomes infected. Native American Indian Nations (referred to as First Nation Indigenous Aboriginal Tribes in Canada) have been deeply injured by systematic cultural genocide. Establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the United States of America will be a profoundly intense effort because the wound is deep and intricate.
Native American Indians are Refugees; the United Nations would consider us to be Internally Displaced Persons. It doesn’t matter if you live on or off the Reservation, the terrible legacy of the American Holocaust continues. It was technically illegal to be a Native American until 1978. There was a palpable fear and hatred of outsiders and the “Feds.” Children were sent off to Boarding Schools to be “Americanized” until the 1980s. The list of atrocities is extensive and continues today with negative socio-economic indicators in Indian Country. Abject poverty, drug abuse, violence, physical and sexual abuse, hopelessness, and pain. Very few tribes (less than 5%) operate casinos and a lot of the profit is paid to non-Native casino management companies.
I am Dakota. My maternal grandfather was so terrified that his children or grandchildren could be taken away and placed in an Indian Boarding School that he destroyed all the enrollment paperwork. I remember visiting family on the Reservation. However, I was young and didn’t memorize names. I had to be snuck on because I am a “Red Velvet Cake,” caucasian on the outside and pink/red on the inside. I didn’t talk about my trip because my family could have been harmed. My beloved grandfather died when I was in middle school. I am a lost bird.
The tragic 150th Anniversary of the Dakota War and hanging of 38+2 in Mankato stirred my soul. I am related to Baptiste Campbell and his brother John Campbell. Baptiste was hung with the 38 and John was hung the following year. My dreams became filled with people crying but I didn’t understand the language. I began reading, researching, and talking to people about Native American Indian issues. It is terrific that there are many institutions dedicated to honoring the culture, language and arts.
I read about pain and healing. I tried to locate a Native American Holocaust or Genocide Museum. There are archives and a small museum but I could not find an institution dedicated to acknowledging of the cruelty committed against the First Nation Tribes. I thought that this might be my purpose. But the tear-filled dreams continued. I did more research and discovered the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. That night my dreams changed. The tears turned to sighs. I’m still not sure what it means but I must be on the right track.
I am compelled to bring forth this cause. I don’t plan to be involved in the actual establishment of the USA’s Commission. It will be a long and complicated process but worth the effort. The Canadian Commission provides an excellent model. I hope that we will follow the same path of healing in the United States of America soon.
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801
Healing Helps Everyone!
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Native American Indians are Refugees; the United Nations would consider us to be Internally Displaced Persons. It doesn’t matter if you live on or off the Reservation, the terrible legacy of the American Holocaust continues. It was technically illegal to be a Native American until 1978. There was a palpable fear and hatred of outsiders and the “Feds.” Children were sent off to Boarding Schools to be “Americanized” until the 1980s. The list of atrocities is extensive and continues today with negative socio-economic indicators in Indian Country. Abject poverty, drug abuse, violence, physical and sexual abuse, hopelessness, and pain. Very few tribes (less than 5%) operate casinos and a lot of the profit is paid to non-Native casino management companies.
I am Dakota. My maternal grandfather was so terrified that his children or grandchildren could be taken away and placed in an Indian Boarding School that he destroyed all the enrollment paperwork. I remember visiting family on the Reservation. However, I was young and didn’t memorize names. I had to be snuck on because I am a “Red Velvet Cake,” caucasian on the outside and pink/red on the inside. I didn’t talk about my trip because my family could have been harmed. My beloved grandfather died when I was in middle school. I am a lost bird.
The tragic 150th Anniversary of the Dakota War and hanging of 38+2 in Mankato stirred my soul. I am related to Baptiste Campbell and his brother John Campbell. Baptiste was hung with the 38 and John was hung the following year. My dreams became filled with people crying but I didn’t understand the language. I began reading, researching, and talking to people about Native American Indian issues. It is terrific that there are many institutions dedicated to honoring the culture, language and arts.
I read about pain and healing. I tried to locate a Native American Holocaust or Genocide Museum. There are archives and a small museum but I could not find an institution dedicated to acknowledging of the cruelty committed against the First Nation Tribes. I thought that this might be my purpose. But the tear-filled dreams continued. I did more research and discovered the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. That night my dreams changed. The tears turned to sighs. I’m still not sure what it means but I must be on the right track.
I am compelled to bring forth this cause. I don’t plan to be involved in the actual establishment of the USA’s Commission. It will be a long and complicated process but worth the effort. The Canadian Commission provides an excellent model. I hope that we will follow the same path of healing in the United States of America soon.
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801
Healing Helps Everyone!
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Friday, February 8, 2013
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION COMMISSION USA
PETITION:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
Introduction: (Example)
There is an emerging and compelling desire to put the events of the past behind us so that we can work towards a stronger and healthier future. The truth telling and reconciliation process as part of an overall holistic and comprehensive response to the Indian Residential Boarding School legacy is a sincere indication and acknowledgement of the injustices and harms experienced by Native American Indian people and the need for continued healing. This is a profound commitment to establishing new relationships embedded in mutual recognition and respect that will forge a brighter future. The truth of our common experiences will help set our spirits free and pave the way to reconciliation. (adapted from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada)
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, more information at their inspirational website:
http://www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/index.php?p=3
Maine leads the way in the United States: http://mainetribaltrc.org/
Healing Lodge Flag is available at:
http://www.manataka.org/page450.html
Flag is copyrighted by the © Manataka American Indian Council. All rights reserved.
Personal Note:
I only wish to promote the establishment of the Commission. It will be a long, complicated, and difficult task. I hope that a nonprofit organization will take leadership of the effort.
Peace to All My Relations
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA will be established to contribute to truth, healing and reconciliation between Native American Indian Nations and the United States of America.
Please join our Facebook page, search for "Petition to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission of the USA"
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Petition-to-establish-a-Truth-and-Reconciliation-Commission-of-the-USA/127454177426801?ref=hl
Introduction: (Example)
There is an emerging and compelling desire to put the events of the past behind us so that we can work towards a stronger and healthier future. The truth telling and reconciliation process as part of an overall holistic and comprehensive response to the Indian Residential Boarding School legacy is a sincere indication and acknowledgement of the injustices and harms experienced by Native American Indian people and the need for continued healing. This is a profound commitment to establishing new relationships embedded in mutual recognition and respect that will forge a brighter future. The truth of our common experiences will help set our spirits free and pave the way to reconciliation. (adapted from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada)
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, more information at their inspirational website:
http://www.trc.ca/websites/trcinstitution/index.php?p=3
Maine leads the way in the United States: http://mainetribaltrc.org/
http://www.manataka.org/page450.html
Flag is copyrighted by the © Manataka American Indian Council. All rights reserved.
Personal Note:
I only wish to promote the establishment of the Commission. It will be a long, complicated, and difficult task. I hope that a nonprofit organization will take leadership of the effort.
Peace to All My Relations
© 2013 Ima B. Musing
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