Boarding schools

Definition

Boarding schools, particularly in the context of Indigenous peoples in North America, refer to institutions established in the 19th and early 20th centuries with the aim of assimilating Native American children into Euro-American culture. These schools often operated under the philosophy of 'killing the Indian, saving the man,' stripping students of their languages, cultures, and identities while enforcing Western educational practices. The legacy of boarding schools is deeply intertwined with historical trauma and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Boarding schools were often funded by the federal government and run by religious organizations, reflecting a systematic effort to erase Indigenous cultures.
2. Many children suffered physical and emotional abuse in these institutions, leading to long-lasting impacts on their mental health and family structures.
3. The trauma from boarding schools contributes to ongoing social issues in Indigenous communities today, including high rates of suicide and substance abuse.
4. The legacy of these schools has fueled movements advocating for truth-telling, reconciliation, and the restoration of cultural practices among Native communities.
5. Survivors of boarding schools have shared testimonies that highlight the importance of healing and cultural revival within their communities.

Review Questions

• How did boarding schools reflect broader assimilation policies towards Indigenous peoples in North America?
  • Boarding schools were a key component of the assimilation policies implemented by the U.S. government aimed at eradicating Indigenous cultures. These institutions were designed to detach Native American children from their families and communities, forcing them to adopt Euro-American customs and practices. The underlying philosophy was to assimilate Native children into mainstream society, which meant stripping them of their languages and cultural identities, ultimately reflecting a larger agenda of cultural genocide.
• What are some long-term effects of boarding schools on Indigenous communities today?
  • The long-term effects of boarding schools on Indigenous communities are profound and multifaceted. Survivors often face mental health issues stemming from trauma experienced in these institutions, contributing to intergenerational trauma that affects families. Additionally, the disruption of cultural transmission has led to challenges in preserving languages and traditions. The legacy of boarding schools continues to impact social issues like substance abuse and suicide rates within these communities, as they grapple with the loss of identity and connection to their heritage.
• Evaluate the importance of recognizing the history of boarding schools in contemporary discussions about tribal-state relations in child welfare.
  • Recognizing the history of boarding schools is crucial in contemporary discussions about tribal-state relations in child welfare because it informs current policies and practices affecting Native American children. Understanding this history sheds light on the mistrust many Indigenous communities have toward state systems that historically sought to dismantle their cultures. This recognition can lead to more culturally sensitive approaches that prioritize family preservation and community engagement while respecting tribal sovereignty. Addressing these historical injustices is essential for building better relationships between tribes and state authorities.

Related terms

Cultural Genocide: The systematic destruction of a group's culture, often through policies that erase language, traditions, and identity.

Assimilation Policy: Government strategies aimed at integrating Indigenous peoples into mainstream society, often at the expense of their cultural identity.

Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA):

A federal law enacted in 1978 to protect the best interests of Native American children and promote the stability and security of Native American tribes and families.