Research Reports
Reflections on Traditional American Indian Ways, 1998
Threats to Tribal Sovereignty, 1998
Traditional American Indian Leadership: A Comparison with U.S. Governance, 1997
Overview of Survey Findings
As indicated, a survey was completed by members of a rural community group working to improve race-relations and by persons acquainted with the group members. Survey questions and a summary of responses can be found in Appendix A.
The intent of the survey was to gather information about issues that make communications and relationships difficult between American Indian and non-Indian people, and to elicit ideas about ways to improve the situation other than through governmental venues.
Lack of understanding and racism are the most commonly identified issues between American Indian and non-Indian communities. One respondent related, "the Indian and non-Indian communities remain largely separate from each other. With some exceptions, there seems to be little understanding or respect for each other's values, traditions and lifestyles." Specific areas of concern between the communities are employment, housing, land tax and crime.
Respondents have attempted to expand communications and relationships between members of the two cultures in a variety of ways. As expected from this sample group, many participate in committees and groups working toward improving cross-cultural communications. Others are involved in taking or teaching cultural diversity classes and workshops and attending special cultural events. Only one respondent indicated that he or she works to improve communications through multicultural friendships.
Personal relationships, parent groups, different cultural program activities, radio and television talk shows and the Democratic party are cited as "non-governmental" venues through which the communities engage in dialogue. It seems, however, that the dialogue that occurs through these venues is limited, and the overwhelming response is that very few "non-governmental" venues exist for dialogue on issues between the communities.
Lack of knowledge is the most commonly cited barrier to ongoing communications between the cultures. It is not surprising then, that respondents view education as the main way to help expand communications and relationships between Indian and non-Indian cultures. Other ideas about ways to improve communications include socializing, working together and, "just plodding along with inter-racial relationships."
The
Well-Being of American Indian Children in Minnesota: Economic Conditions,
1994
top | Projects
| Research | Publications
| Links | About Us
| Contact Us | Home
© Copyright 2002, American Indian Policy Center. All Rights
Reserved.
1463 Hewitt Avenue • St. Paul, MN 55104 • tel: 651-644-1728
aipc@cpinternet.com
Last updated:
Tuesday November 1, 2005