America Quote by Wilma Mankiller
“Though many non-Native Americans have learned very little about us, over time we have had to learn everything about them. We watch their films, read their literature, worship in their churches, and attend their schools. Every third-grade student in the United States is presented with the concept of Europeans discovering America as a "New World" with fertile soil, abundant gifts of nature, and glorious mountains and rivers. Only the most enlightened teachers will explain that this world certainly wasn't new to the millions of indigenous people who already lived here when Columbus arrived.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Indigenous Perspectives on Education, Wilma Mankiller, 2002
Indigenous histories are often omitted, leading to a skewed understanding of national narratives.
In simple terms: History taught often ignores native peoples.
Key Takeaway
Include indigenous viewpoints in education.
Themes
history
education
colonialism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
educational
social
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- museum exhibits
- media productions
- public policy debates
Key Concepts
postcolonial studies
cultural awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teachers present balanced histories?
- What impact does this have on indigenous youth?
A Different Perspective
Changing curricula can face political resistance.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
