The Rise of Native Identity Self-Identification

Recent census data shows a significant increase in the number of Americans identifying as Native, rising from 4.1 million in 2000 to 9.7 million in 2020. This surge cannot be solely attributed to demographic changes or undercounting on reservations, as there has not been a notable increase in birth rates among Native populations. Instead, more individuals seem to feel compelled to assert their Native identities, often influenced by cultural connections or familial ties. This growing trend raises questions about the nature of identity and what it means to be recognized as Native in a society where official tribal enrollment standards vary widely.