Thesis: The issue regarding the loss of original Native American culture is only one of the countless worries of Native American tribes living today in the U.S. The Native American culture has gradually been forced into assimilation by preceding generations, and struggles to prosper due to poorly regulated and insufficiently funded reserves.
Native American reserves are as an entirely different rate of development than other industrialized areas of the U.S.
Lack of infrastructure (lack of phones, electricity, running water, etc.) makes not only living difficult, but also impedes on business revenue and diminishes the opportunity for American Indian businesses to flourish.
Primary Concerns of Native Americans living on reserves:
- Bad job conditions
- Exploitation/ Environmental destruction
- Lack of education
- Shortage of housing
- Health problems
- High rates of alcoholism and suicide
Why should my audience care?
These issues can no longer be ignored or denied if the longevity of American Indian culture is expected to flourish for generations to come. Our nation is at great risk of losing the Native American culture altogether, not only through means of assimilation, but also through neglect and abandonment by the federal government. How can we pretend that this is fair?
Who will come to their aid? President Obama recently hosted a Native American Conference in 2011, where leaders from all 565 Native American tribes were represented and given the opportunity to express their concerns of their people and their frustration with the quality of their reservations. The White House Tribal Nations Conference Progress Report was generated from this meeting, in order to provide a plan of action for the federal government to address the needs of the American Indian people. However, these issues are still a long way from being totally absolved. Poverty, sickness, low income levels, and insufficient housing still reign predominately throughout the nation’s reservations.
A Place For Thought 