Historians have long studied the complex relationship between the United States government and Native American communities. And as the Trump administration continues to push its agenda of “America First” policies, many are pointing to a disturbing pattern of entitlement to Native land that has been ingrained in American society for centuries.
At the heart of this issue is the concept of national security, which has been used time and again to justify the seizure of Native land. From the early days of colonization, when European settlers claimed land that had been inhabited by Native tribes for generations, to the present day, when the government continues to exploit and disregard the rights of Native communities, the idea of national security has been used as a convenient excuse to further the interests of the dominant culture.
But what exactly is national security? According to the Oxford Dictionary, it is defined as “the protection of a nation’s borders and territories against invasion or control by foreign powers.” However, in the context of American history, this definition has been twisted and manipulated to serve the interests of those in power.
One of the most glaring examples of this is the Indian Removal Act of 1830, signed into law by President Andrew Jackson. This legislation forced thousands of Native Americans from their ancestral lands in the Southeastern United States to make way for white settlers. The justification for this forced relocation was the need to protect the expanding nation from potential threats posed by Native tribes. In reality, it was a blatant land grab that resulted in the displacement and suffering of countless Native people.
Fast forward to the present day, and we see a similar pattern emerging. The Trump administration’s push to build a wall along the US-Mexico border is a prime example of this entitlement to Native land. The proposed wall would cut through the Tohono O’odham Nation, a Native community that has inhabited the land for centuries. Not only would this wall disrupt their way of life and sacred sites, but it also goes against their sovereignty as a recognized tribe.
Furthermore, the administration’s decision to shrink the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah, a sacred site for several Native tribes, is another example of this entitlement to Native land. Despite strong opposition from Native communities and conservationists, the government has chosen to prioritize the interests of extractive industries over the protection of cultural and environmental resources.
It is important to note that this pattern of entitlement to Native land is not limited to the Trump administration. It is a deeply ingrained mindset that has been perpetuated by the government and society as a whole. From the exploitation of natural resources on Native land to the lack of consultation with tribes on issues that directly affect them, the United States has a long history of disregarding the rights and sovereignty of Native communities.
So why does this pattern persist? One reason could be the idea of American exceptionalism, the belief that the United States is a unique and superior nation. This mindset has been used to justify the country’s actions, including the seizure of Native land, as being for the greater good. However, this belief is deeply flawed and ignores the fact that the United States was built on the displacement and oppression of Native peoples.
Another factor is the lack of education and awareness about Native history and issues. Many Americans are not taught about the atrocities committed against Native communities, and as a result, they may not fully understand the impact of their government’s actions. This lack of understanding perpetuates the entitlement to Native land and allows it to continue unchecked.
It is time for the United States to confront its history of entitlement to Native land and work towards reconciliation and justice for Native communities. This includes acknowledging and addressing past wrongdoings, respecting tribal sovereignty, and involving Native voices in decision-making processes.
As citizens, we also have a responsibility to educate ourselves and advocate for the rights of Native communities. We must recognize that the land we live on was stolen from its original inhabitants and work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all.
In conclusion, the issue of entitlement to Native land is a complex and deeply rooted problem in American society. It is a pattern that has been perpetuated for centuries and continues to be a barrier to true progress and justice. It is time for the United States to confront this issue and work towards a more inclusive and respectful relationship with Native communities. Only then can we truly move towards a more just and equitable society for all.
