The Complexities of American Indian Identity in the Twenty-First Century

Native 24/7 is a mixed-methods study that explores modern-day American Indian identities through interviews and surveys, documenting how contemporary Native peoples feel, define, and contribute to the construction of Native identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Between 2011 and 2015, over 700 Native Americans from across the United States participated in Native 24/7, a mixed-methods study that explored modern-day American Indian identities through semi-structured interviews and accompanying surveys. The study, conducted by Daley and Daley, aimed to document the perspectives, voices, and stories of these participants to understand how contemporary Native peoples feel, define, and contribute to the construction of Native identity. The study covered various topics, including colonization, tribal enrollment, blood quantum, language, spirituality, family, and community.

One of the key findings of the study was that contemporary Native peoples have a diverse range of identities and experiences that are shaped by their unique historical, cultural, and social contexts. While some participants identified strongly with their Native American heritage, others had mixed or complex identities that included elements of other cultures. This diversity was reflected in the participants' responses to questions about colonization, tribal enrollment, and blood quantum.

Colonization was a significant theme in the study, with many participants describing the negative impact it had on their communities. They spoke of the loss of land, resources, and cultural practices, and the forced assimilation of Native Americans into mainstream society. However, some participants also noted that colonization had led to positive changes, such as increased access to education and healthcare.

Tribal enrollment was another important topic in the study, with many participants expressing concerns about the process and its impact on their communities. They noted that tribal enrollment can be difficult to navigate, and that it can exclude individuals who do not meet certain criteria. This can lead to feelings of isolation and marginalization among Native Americans.

Blood quantum was also a controversial topic in the study, with some participants arguing that it should be eliminated as a requirement for tribal enrollment. They argued that blood quantum is a racist and discriminatory practice that does not accurately reflect the diversity of Native American communities. Others, however, argued that blood quantum is necessary to preserve the cultural integrity of Native American communities.

Language was another important aspect of Native identity in the study, with many participants speaking their Native language fluently. However, many also noted that their language was in danger of extinction due to a lack of resources and support. This was particularly true for languages that were not widely spoken or taught in schools.

Spirituality was also a significant theme in the study, with many participants describing their spiritual beliefs and practices. They noted that spirituality was an important part of their lives and that it helped them to cope with the challenges of modern life. However, some participants also noted that spirituality was being threatened by the dominant culture.

Family and community were also important aspects of Native identity in the study, with many participants describing the importance of their families and communities in their lives. They noted that these relationships were often strong and supportive, but that they were also vulnerable to the negative impact of colonization and other social factors.

In conclusion, Native 24/7 was a significant study that provided valuable insights into the modern-day American Indian identities. The study found that contemporary Native peoples have a diverse range of identities and experiences that are shaped by their unique historical, cultural, and social contexts. While colonization, tribal enrollment, blood quantum, language, spirituality, family, and community were all important topics in the study, the findings were complex and nuanced. The study highlighted the need for greater recognition and support of Native American communities, and for the preservation of their cultural heritage.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793643872