Expand Indigenous Studies and Incorporate Native American Content at UMBC
Expand Indigenous Studies and Incorporate Native American Content at UMBC
The Issue
My name is Saleen Lewis and I am a Lumbee Native American, and I am a student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). It disheartens me to see the wide range of cultural classes offered at our university, yet there is only one class dedicated to Indigenous studies. Despite UMBC's commitment to inclusion and diversity, as evidenced by their land acknowledgements, it seems we are falling short when it comes to educating others on Native/Indigenous culture. This lack of representation in our curriculum represents the long history of erasure for Native/Indigenous cultures.
The United States has a rich tapestry of cultures woven into its history. However, according to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), less than 0.1% of all K-12 school curriculum content includes information about Native Americans post-1900's. This lack extends into higher education where courses on Indigenous cultures are often limited or non-existent.
Indigenous peoples hold a rich diversity of living heritage, including practices, representations, expressions, knowledge and skills that continue to be relevant and provide meaning in everyday life. Learning this is essential to understanding not only the current state of Indigenous peoples, but the state of our country as well. Students can become more informed and work toward Indigenous reconciliation, and be advocates for anti-racism, all in their own right and capacity. Indigenous history is a vital part of U.S./American history.
Our request is simple but significant: expand the number of Indigenous studies classes available at UMBC and incorporate more Native American content into classes focused on U.S history, gender, and race issues.
By doing so, we can foster an environment that truly values diversity and inclusion - one that acknowledges the importance of every culture's contribution to society's fabric. We can also help break down barriers that have led to misunderstandings and colonization about indigenous peoples' histories and contemporary lives.
We urge UMBC administration not just acknowledge our presence but also educate others about us by broadening their course offerings related to Indigenous cultures. Let us make true inclusivity, diversity, and a reality in our educational institution; let us learn from each other’s experiences; let us respect each other’s heritage.
Please sign this petition if you believe in promoting cultural understanding through education at UMBC.
129
The Issue
My name is Saleen Lewis and I am a Lumbee Native American, and I am a student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). It disheartens me to see the wide range of cultural classes offered at our university, yet there is only one class dedicated to Indigenous studies. Despite UMBC's commitment to inclusion and diversity, as evidenced by their land acknowledgements, it seems we are falling short when it comes to educating others on Native/Indigenous culture. This lack of representation in our curriculum represents the long history of erasure for Native/Indigenous cultures.
The United States has a rich tapestry of cultures woven into its history. However, according to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), less than 0.1% of all K-12 school curriculum content includes information about Native Americans post-1900's. This lack extends into higher education where courses on Indigenous cultures are often limited or non-existent.
Indigenous peoples hold a rich diversity of living heritage, including practices, representations, expressions, knowledge and skills that continue to be relevant and provide meaning in everyday life. Learning this is essential to understanding not only the current state of Indigenous peoples, but the state of our country as well. Students can become more informed and work toward Indigenous reconciliation, and be advocates for anti-racism, all in their own right and capacity. Indigenous history is a vital part of U.S./American history.
Our request is simple but significant: expand the number of Indigenous studies classes available at UMBC and incorporate more Native American content into classes focused on U.S history, gender, and race issues.
By doing so, we can foster an environment that truly values diversity and inclusion - one that acknowledges the importance of every culture's contribution to society's fabric. We can also help break down barriers that have led to misunderstandings and colonization about indigenous peoples' histories and contemporary lives.
We urge UMBC administration not just acknowledge our presence but also educate others about us by broadening their course offerings related to Indigenous cultures. Let us make true inclusivity, diversity, and a reality in our educational institution; let us learn from each other’s experiences; let us respect each other’s heritage.
Please sign this petition if you believe in promoting cultural understanding through education at UMBC.
129
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Petition created on February 21, 2024