Settler colonial microaggressions: Adrienne Keene, Desi Small-Rodriguez, Laurel R. Davis-Delano, ‘Native voices on Native appropriation’, Ethnic and Racial Studies, 2023 | settler colonial studies blog

Settler colonial microaggressions: Adrienne Keene, Desi Small-Rodriguez, Laurel R. Davis-Delano, ‘Native voices on Native appropriation’, Ethnic and Racial Studies, 2023

08Jul23

Abstract: In U.S. media, appropriation of American Indian cultures and identities is a recurring topic. Yet, there is no academic research that examines American Indian experiences with and attitudes towards multiple types of this appropriation. We analyzed written responses about appropriation from 362 tribally-enrolled American Indian participants. We found that these participants witness many types of appropriation on a regular basis. While a small percentage expressed support for this appropriation, the vast majority voiced opposition, most commonly because they perceive it as disrespectful, ignorant, and oppressive. Many participants described negative feelings they experience when encountering appropriation, especially anger. Some take action to eliminate appropriation, especially educating others. We situate our findings in the context of settler colonialism, and explain how this appropriation operates as microaggressions, which generate a hostile climate. Lastly, we discuss ways our findings can inform social change and uphold the sovereignty of American Indian tribal nations.

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