Staff: Tasha R. Fridia-Tribal Youth and Justice Specialist
As America celebrates Veteran’s Day, many Indigenous people are torn. Our people serve in the United States Armed Forces at some of the highest rates of any group. Much of this is a result of our history and intrinsic warrior spirit. While most Indigenous people acknowledge this legacy and the selflessness and bravery military service entails, they struggle with serving a government that has been intent on our erasure. As the spouse of an active military member, even I have pondered this dichotomy. Where do we as Indigenous people fall in this multifaceted idea of service and patriotism? This conundrum is one I believe can only be explored and defined on an individual level. What I think most Indigenous people can agree on is that we share a warrior spirit.
It is important that we impart this legacy to our youth. As part of building self-esteem and self-worth we can share about our ancestors who fought for our ways of life, those who preserved our ceremonial ways when they were outlawed, those who keep these ceremonies alive, and those who fought and continue to fight for the rights of our people. We must remind our youth that strength and resilience runs deep in their DNA and that they have the capacity to make a difference. Whether this is through military service, cultural preservation, or formal education, our children ARE CAPABLE. They can achieve their wildest dreams. For some of our youth the ability to travel, structure and leadership training of the Armed Forces provides a foundation to excel that they may not have otherwise. We must continue to support our youth in all of the positive endeavors they pursue.
The content of this blog is the opinion of the author and does not reflect the ideas, ideologies or points of view of OJJDP, TLPI or TYRC.
