Lomawaima, K. T., & McCarty, T. L. (2002). When Tribal Sovereignty Challenges Democracy: American Indian Education and the Democratic Ideal. American Educational Research Journal, 39(2), 279-305. DOI: 10.3102/00028312039002279

The authors make explicitly address lessons from Indigenous America—the fight to protect and conserve sovereignty, and contests over education in particular—to enrich the national debate surrounding educational issues that impact all students.

Questions to Consider:

1. The authors state, “But diversity is by no means universally embraced. Many Americans view diversity as a threat to the national fabric, as a problem.” Describe three ways that you agree or disagree with this statement.
2. Explain the dilemma existing between Native American’s desire for sovereignty and the U.S.’s desire for standardization. How was the goal of the U.S. carried out?
3. What similarities do you see existing between how the U.S. educated Native American youth and how culturally diverse students are educated today?