To Remain an Indian: Lessons in Democracy from a Century of Native American Education

To Remain an Indian examines Native American education in the United States from the late 19th through the 20th century. The book focuses on federal Indian schools and the policies that shaped them, drawing from historical records and firsthand accounts. The authors trace the evolution of Native American education through key periods and policy shifts, including the assimilation era and later reforms. They present case studies of specific schools and programs, documenting both institutional practices and student experiences. The work incorporates oral histories, archival materials, and government documents to reconstruct daily life in Indian schools. It pays particular attention to the ways Native students and communities responded to educational policies aimed at cultural transformation. This historical analysis raises fundamental questions about democracy, cultural difference, and the role of education in American society. The book contributes to ongoing discussions about indigenous rights and self-determination in education.

Readers appreciate the book's detailed examination of Native American education policies and the tension between assimilation and cultural preservation. Many note the thorough research and extensive use of primary sources to demonstrate how federal policies impacted Indigenous communities. Positive comments focus on: - Clear analysis of historical documents - Personal stories that illustrate broader policies - Balance between academic rigor and accessibility Common criticisms include: - Dense academic writing style - Narrow focus on specific time periods - Limited coverage of contemporary education issues Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (12 ratings) One educator wrote: "The authors effectively show how Native communities resisted cultural erasure while navigating complex education systems." A student reviewer noted: "The academic tone made it challenging to get through, but the content provides crucial context for understanding current Indigenous education debates."

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📚 K. Tsianina Lomawaima is herself a member of the Mvskoke/Creek Nation, bringing personal insight and cultural understanding to her research on Native American education. 🏫 The book explores how federal Indian schools attempted to erase Native languages and cultures while simultaneously celebrating certain "safe" aspects of Indian identity, like art and dance. 🗓️ The research spans 100 years of Native American education policy, from the 1880s through the 1980s, documenting both government initiatives and Indigenous resistance. ✊ The title "To Remain an Indian" comes from a powerful statement made by a Pueblo leader who insisted on maintaining cultural identity while adapting to modern education. 🏆 The book won the American Educational Research Association's Outstanding Book Award in 2007, recognizing its significant contribution to understanding the complex relationship between democracy and diversity in education.