INDIGENOUS
PEOPLES
In Focus
"See more clearly when you are informed"
Indigenous Peoples
The original occupants and custodians of the United States, the Indigenous People of America comprises a wide range of rich cultures. Often the first to suffer and most affected by our nation's hardships, their struggles often make the news and shape national conversation. Below you will find key terms, statistics, and other useful tools to understand and talk about Indigenous People. If you would like to know more, consider coming to an IYC event. Our next one can be found below in the section labeled Our Events. We host them virtually, on a wide range of topics, discussing policy, civics, and current events.
Key Terms You Should Know
Nation:
A tribe that had organized under the Reorganization Act.
Sovereignty:
A legal term for the authority to self-govern.
Reservation:
Land governed by Native Americans and federal laws.
Winter Count:
Medicine men/tribal leaders' pictorial historical record.
Turtle Island:
Indigenous mythological term for Earth/North America.
Moments In History
40,000 B.C. - Indigenous Peoples Arrive in the Americas.
1886-1930s - Mohawk Skywalkers.
2016 - Water Protector Movement Began.
April 5, 1838 - Trail of Tears.
1924 & 1934 - Indian Citizenship & Reorganization Acts.
Statistics
574 federally recognized Indian Nations in the US.
2% Native Americans in the US (6.79M). 25% Live at Poverty Level.
6 Navajo Code Talkers
35 days of 'Iwo Jima'
800 precise messages
Native American Languages spoken in the United States:
300 Past
175 Present
20 Future
States with Largest Native American Populations:
Alaska: 146,557 / 19.86%
California: 806,874 / 2.02%
Values
Respect
Communitarianism
Tradition
Heritage
Harmony with Nature
Notable Names
Sitting Bull
Charles Curtis
Maria Tallchief
John Trudell
Deb Haaland
Symbols
Our Events
Past
Future
Further Resources
Indigenous Peoples Infographic
Share what you have learned about Indigenous Peoples. Our Infographic has been designed to be shared easily by printing, emailing, or posting on social media. Click on the image to view or download the PDF File. (Not for commercial use.)
Popcorn & Chat Event Video
Our crafting event for kids was lots of fun! Use your own materials to participate in our craft project. Watch the video to learn how to make your own Dream Catcher! You can also make an event out of it by hosting your own Celebrate & Create: Indigenous Peoples crafting party. Feel free to share this video with others! (Not for commercial use.)
Take Action
Refrain from insensitive costumes.
Visit a reservation, pow wow, or museum.
Commit to a weekly Indigenous friendly act.
Buy Native products from respected sources.
Share our Indigenous Peoples Infographic with friends, family, and anyone and everyone you think would appreciate becoming more informed!