Grossmont College Identity for American Indians Essay Questions

First Essay Question (400+ words)

Discusswhy identity is a complicated and highly charged question for manyAmerican Indians. Explain how Indian identity is defined differentlyby the entities offering the definition. For example, answers maydiffer among individuals, between tribes, as well as the state andfederal governments. Why might these definitions vary and for whatreasons? What is at stake in the way of consequences for both enrolledand non-enrolled American Indians? How do matters of emotionalattachment and social and spiritual well-being figure in yourunderstanding of the issue? Support your answer with information fromthe texts, other course materials, and any personal insights you havegarnered. Cite your supporting information and where it came from.

Second Essay Question (200+ words)

CHOOSE ONLY ONE

1. Both Mihesuah and Strum makethe point that external societal events may have an influence onpeople’s attitudes toward their ethnic identity. What examples do theyprovide for their discussion of American Indian attitudes towardsidentity in the 20^th century (discuss at least one)? Do you think these may have changed today in the 21^st century? Why or why not? Give an example to back up your reasoning.

2. Both Hensel and McCartyet al discuss how young American Indian people’s attitudes toward theirethnic identity may differ from those of their elders. What examples dothey provide? How do elders’ attitudes differ from young peoples’attitudes, in each community? Why do you think these differences exist?

(This question includes the Churchill article from the mid-term)

3. Both Churchill and Wilkins

argue that tribal nations, under their powers as sovereign governments,

reserve in their treaties and constitutions, the right to include

members and exclude non-members from citizenship in the tribe. Are their

How do they frame their arguments? Which approach is more convincing

to you and why? Support your answer.

DON’T FORGET TO CITE