'The Indian Card' explores the question of Native identity in the United States
Oct 21, 2024
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Carrie Lowry-Schuettpelz, a passionate author and data analyst, dives into the complexities of Native American identity in her book, 'The Indian Card.' She discusses her discovery of a surge in people identifying as Native through Census data. The conversation touches on the historical implications of federal policies like the Indian Relocation Act, revealing how these have shaped personal and collective identities. Lowry-Schuettpelz shares poignant stories of disconnection, belonging, and the emotional impact of cultural loss in Native communities.
Federal policies like the Indian Relocation Act have drastically altered Native identity, leading to disconnection from cultural roots and communities.
Contemporary discussions around Native identity grapple with bureaucratic definitions and personal experiences, affecting belonging and tribal enrollment.
Deep dives
The Impact of Federal Policies on Native Identity
Federal policies have significantly influenced Native American identity and the sense of community among Native peoples. Historical policies such as the Relocation Act forced Native individuals into urban areas far removed from their original tribal lands, leading to feelings of disconnection and the loss of cultural ties. Through the lens of individual experiences, such as the story of an 84-year-old man who was taken away to boarding school, the personal consequences of these policies become evident. Many contemporary Native individuals grapple with their identities as they navigate the complexities created by these bureaucratic decisions and the loss of connection to their tribes.
The Search for Belonging and Understanding
Exploring the concept of belonging, the discussion highlights the struggle for acceptance and identity within Native communities, especially when some tribes lack federal recognition. The author reflects on her own experiences with identity, exemplified by her contemplation of tribal enrollment requirements while trying to understand her place within the Lumbee tribe. By incorporating diverse perspectives and personal stories, the narrative illustrates how historical circumstances have shaped contemporary views on community and belonging. This journey extends beyond individual exploration, prompting deeper questions about land ownership and the return of ancestral homelands to Native peoples.
Carrie Lowry Schuettpelz is a self-proclaimed data nerd. So, when she started work on a project on Native identity, she turned to the Census data. Quickly, she noticed that the number of people in the United States who identify as Native had skyrocketed over the last decade. That data made her curious about how communities–and the federal government–have historically defined Native identity. The result of that project is a new nonfiction book, The Indian Card, which combines research and interviews to tell stories about the relationship between identity and bureaucracy. In today's episode, Lowry Schuettpelz joins NPR's Scott Detrow to talk about the historical and personal impact of federal policies like the Indian Relocation Act, blood quantum and tribal enrollment.
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