An Indigenous Navajo senior aged woman, receiving healthcare assistance in her home. (Credit: Getty/RichLegg)
On the 9th of August, 2023, the global community united to celebrate the International Day of Indigenous Peoples, a momentous occasion designated by the United Nations. This day serves as both a tribute to the diversity of cultures that indigenous communities uphold and a reminder of the ongoing violations of their fundamental rights. Rooted in history, these violations trace back to the deeply entrenched scars of colonization, both domestically within the United States and across international boundaries. While in North America, we frequently discuss our freedom and rights, the reality remains that these values often silent when applied to minority groups and the vulnerable.
The indigenous peoples of the world, numbering around 476 million and spanning across 90 countries, represent less than 5% of the global population. Yet, their distinct communal identities encompass some 7,000 languages and roughly 5,000 distinct cultures. These are societies that stand apart, with social, cultural, economic, and political identities distinct from the dominant counterparts, and their ongoing struggle to protect their ways of life truly is a testament to their resilience.
In the United States, we encounter approximately 9.7 million American Indian/Alaska Native and Hawaiian Native/Pacific Islander individuals. There 574 federally recognized tribes and nations, as well as 324 federally recognized American Indian reservations, that run across our nation. Yet, the realities of disparity cannot be ignored. These communities, often at the crossroads of socio-economic hardship, are affected by a range of challenges such as substance misuse, significant dependence on foster care and child welfare systems, and the harrowing specter of violence against women.
While this community makes up less than 2% of the total U.S. population, American Indian and Alaska Native individuals stand at the forefront of numerous inequalities. Struggles include areas such as unemployment, education, economic stability, and chronic health conditions. In 2019, the unemployment rate for this demographic stood at 6.1%, in contrast to the national average of 3.7%. Housing insecurity affected the lives of 85,000 individuals in native communities seeking refuge with family or friends due to housing unaffordability, resulting in overcrowding that affects 16% of tribal homes compared to just 2% of all other U.S. households.
WASHINGTON, DC – November 10, 2007. Native American Navajo Veteran Soldier at Veterans Day parade, Washington DC, USA (Credit: Getty/Paul Maguire)
Despite these adversities, the courage and contribution of American Indian and Alaska Native individuals shine brightly. Their representation within the U.S. Military branches surpasses the national average by fivefold, a commitment spanning over two centuries across every major conflict. In an inspiring testament to gender equality, 20% of American Indiam military members are women. These communities stand tall, fighting for their rights and liberties on a platform higher than their counterparts. Yet, the irony persists that they are disproportionately affected by leading causes of mortality, illnesses, and public health issues.
As we commemorate the International Day of Indigenous Peoples, let us reflect on Pope Francis statement on August 9th , 2022 “How precious is that profoundly genuine sense of family and community among #IndigenousPeoples! And how important it is to cultivate properly the bond between young and old, and to maintain a healthy and harmonious relationship with all of creation!” A moment to honor the vibrant cultural mosaic Indigenous People’s offer to humanity and acknowledge the deeply rooted struggles they navigate daily. By fostering understanding and collaboration, we take the first steps toward dismantling the barriers that have persisted for far too long, ultimately working towards a more inclusive and just world for all.
Information on St. Kateri Tekakwitha, first Mohawk Indian Saint
Prayer St. Kateri Tekakwitha, first Mohawk Indian Saint
https://www.dosp.org/our-faith/prayers/prayer-to-st-kateri-tekakwitha-2/
Prayer to St. Juan Diego, the first (international) Indigenous Saint