Ivan F. Star Comes Out. Photo from Native Sun News
How can we find salvation in an educational system that nearly destroyed us?
By Ivan F. Star Comes Out
Native Sun News Columnist
www.nsweekly.com The term Homo sapiens (Latin) is the universally accepted scientific name for the human species of this planet. Homo refers to Neanderthals as well as other extinct species. Sapiens means the only surviving species of Homo. Although our ancestors would disagree, the term also distinguishes us from animals, except bipedal primates. Oral tradition (First Creation) tells us how we, the original inhabitants, came into existence on Unci Maka (Grandmother Earth). The original nations in the eastern half of this continent have their own Creation which establishes Turtle Island. At the same time, these indigenous teachings tell us to be mindful and respectful of other people and their beliefs. The Christian Bible teaches us that man was made in the image of God who is male and that the female was created from the rib of the first man. This initial teaching tells me that the Christian male deserves to own everything on earth, including his woman. Despite their covetous and materialistic demeanor, our ancestors accepted them out of respect for the Christian bible’s teachings. The problem in the Americas, which is actually of a racial nature, when the Christian leadership decided that anyone who is not Christian is sub-human and could be treated accordingly. After annihilating millions of natives, the newcomer decided to forcibly assimilate the remaining natives, especially the children, by setting up what they called an education system. So, what did this “education” as we know it today actually do for us as a culturally distinct group of people? I ask this in view of the persistent poverty and general disorder we have endured since the Fort Laramie Peace Treaty of 1868 was signed by the Oceti Sakowin (Seven Council Fires) leadership as a dignified sovereign nation.
Read the rest of the story on the all new Native Sun News website: How can we find salvation in an educational system that nearly destroyed us? (Ivan F. Star Comes Out can be reached at POB 147, Oglala, SD 57764, (605) 867-2448, or via email at mato_nasula2@outlook.com) Copyright permission Native Sun News
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