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Using Preferred Language for Native Americans
Native Americans, those who lived across the North American continent for thousands of years before Europeans arrived, have always played a vital role in the Thanksgiving holiday. It's been long taught that the holiday is in commemoration of the Virginia colonist's first successful harvest and their corresponding celebrations, which were attended by Native peoples. The meal largely consisted of American cuisine like turkey, cranberries, and pumpkin, which the Native people helped them successfully cultivate.
Over the years, it's become more widely acknowledged that although it's framed as being a celebration between Native Americans and European colonists, the relationship between the two groups has hardly been harmonious. We figured it would be worthwhile to share some resources and tips to help ensure that language surrounding Native Americans is handled eloquently and as correctly as possible.
- There is oftentimes confusion over what is the best term to use for Native Americans; is American Indian, Indian, Native American, Indigenous, or Native preferred? Though all of the terms are technically okay, the National Museum of the American Indian notes that Native people prefer their tribal names be used whenever possible. This helps acknowledge the diversity and extent of Native people.
- Some Native people have been able to retain the land they have always inhabited, while other tribes have been granted land after being removed from their original places. When referring to the lands tribes inhabit, it's important to know whether they are federally recognized or recognized only by the state, where the tribe originated versus where they currently are, if the land was purchased by the tribe or Native individuals, or if it was just placed under their stewardship.
- When writing pieces about learning about Native peoples, make sure you are specific and sensitive about trivializing important parts of the respective cultures. Pay special attention to whether something could be considered offensive if worn or repped by someone who is not Native; if you are unsure, try looking up an opinion from that specific tribe.
If you would like further information, check our resources like the
Cherokee Nation's official site (or the websites of other tribes), the
National Museum of the American Indian, and books, literature, blogs, and videos by Native peoples.
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