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What actions have been taken to address the trauma caused by the Native American Genocide?

Jaelynn Toone

There have been several actions taken to address the trauma caused by the Native American Genocide. One significant step was the establishment of the Indian Health Service in 1955, which aimed to improve the health and welfare of Native Americans. In recent years, there has also been an increased awareness and recognition of the historical trauma experienced by Indigenous communities, and efforts to address and heal from it.

One key initiative in this regard has been the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) established in Canada in 2008. The TRC brought together Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous Canadians to shed light on the impacts of residential schools, where Indigenous children were taken from their families and forced to assimilate to Western culture, and to create a path towards healing and reconciliation. The TRC's final report, released in 2015, included calls to action such as improving access to mental health services, preserving Indigenous languages, and implementing the recommendations for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Another important step has been the increased support for Indigenous-led healing practices and ceremonies. These programs are often centered on cultural traditions and emphasize the importance of community, spirituality, and connection to the land. In addition to providing an alternative to Western medical practices, these programs also help to strengthen and revitalize Indigenous culture and traditions.

Efforts have also been made to incorporate Indigenous perspectives and histories into mainstream education. In 2018, the state of New Mexico passed a law requiring its schools to provide a "cultural and historical education" for students that includes the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous communities. Similarly, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action include efforts to "revise curriculum and teaching resources" to reflect Indigenous perspectives and histories.

Finally, there has been a growing movement towards repatriation and returning land to Indigenous communities. This includes efforts to return sacred objects and remains that were taken from Indigenous communities without consent or permission, as well as efforts to transfer land back to Indigenous ownership and control. These actions not only address historical injustices, but also give Indigenous communities greater control over their own futures and resources.

In conclusion, while there is still much work to be done, there have been significant actions taken to address the trauma caused by the Native American Genocide. These initiatives range from improving access to health services to promoting Indigenous healing practices, incorporating Indigenous perspectives into education, and returning land to Indigenous communities. By working towards healing and reconciliation, we can take important steps towards a more just and equitable future for all.