Happy 4th of July
Native Americans and the 4th of July
The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is a holiday celebrated by Americans nationwide on July 4th with barbecues, fireworks, and other festive activities. However, for many Native Americans, this holiday holds mixed emotions and complexities due to the history of colonization.
For many Native American tribes, July 4th is a day of sorrow rather than celebration. This is because the holiday commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which set in motion a series of events that ultimately led to the colonization and displacement of many indigenous people. Many Native Americans feel overlooked and sidelined during Independence Day celebrations, as their perspectives and histories are often left out of the narrative.
Despite these challenges, some Native American communities have found ways to reclaim the holiday and make it their own. This can involve hosting cultural events, gatherings, and ceremonies that honor their heritage and resilience. By reframing the holiday in a way that centers on indigenous experiences, Native Americans are able to assert their presence and challenge narratives of American history.
“The Lumbee of North Carolina and Mattaponi of Virginia use this time as a homecoming for tribal members to renew cultural and family ties. The Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma holds Gourd Clan ceremonies on Independence Day because the holiday coincides with their Sun Dance, which once took place during the hottest part of the year. The Lakota of South Dakota and Cheyenne of Oklahoma continue to have some of their annual Sun Dances on the weekends closest to the Fourth of July to coincide with their celebration of their New Year…? (Neetha, 2020).
Ultimately, the relationship between Native Americans and the 4th of July celebrations are complex and multifaceted. While some may choose to reject the holiday altogether, others use it as an opportunity to educate and raise awareness about the struggles faced by Native American communities. By acknowledging the history of colonization and working towards an inclusive and equitable future, we can move towards a society that truly embodies the values of liberty and justice for all.
References:
Neetha, K. (2020). Independence Day: Do Native Americans really celebrate July 4 or is it a lost tradition that forced them to evolve? Retrieved from: https://meaww.com/independence-day-july-4-native-americans-do-they-celebrate-lost-traditions-early-suppression.
Zotigh, D. (2020). Do American Indians celebrate the 4th of July? Retrieved from: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/blogs/national-museum-american-indian/2020/07/01/do-american-indians-celebrate-4th-july/
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