The Untold Native American Prison Story: A Journey of Resilience and Redemption

Prisons across America are filled with stories of anguish, redemption, and resilience. Among the many tales that have gone largely untold is that of the Native American prison experience. These stories shed light on the incredible obstacles faced by Native Americans within the US criminal justice system, as well as their remarkable ability to overcome adversity and seek redemption.

The Historical Context

Native Americans have a long and complex history with the criminal justice system in the United States. From the forced relocation of tribes to reservations to the devastating effects of colonization, Native Americans have faced systemic disadvantages that contribute to higher rates of incarceration.

Our Ancestors Are Proud!: A Native American Prison Story

by Tanis C. Thorne (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7206 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	52 pages

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Throughout the centuries, Native American cultures and traditions were often suppressed, leading to a sense of cultural disconnection and loss. This disconnection, coupled with the challenges of poverty, limited access to education, and healthcare disparities, has significantly impacted Native American communities, making them vulnerable to criminal activity and incarceration.

A Prisoner's Journey

One Native American prisoner, Thomas Blackfeather, shares his compelling story of finding hope and redemption within the walls of a maximum-security prison. Raised in a troubled household on a reservation, Blackfeather's path seemed destined for turmoil. However, during his time in prison, he discovered a passion for education, art, and rehabilitation.

"Prison can either break you or make you," says Blackfeather. "I chose to use my time behind bars as an opportunity for self-reflection, growth, and healing."

Blackfeather began studying various forms of art, using his newfound skills to express his emotions, celebrate his cultural heritage, and advocate for change within the prison system. His artwork gained recognition within the correctional facility and eventually reached a larger audience through exhibitions and galleries outside.

Obstacles and Injustice

Blackfeather's story epitomizes the resilience of Native American prisoners in the face of considerable obstacles and systemic injustices. Native Americans are often subjected to racial profiling, biased sentencing, and unequal access to legal representation. These challenges perpetuate a cycle of incarceration and hinder opportunities for rehabilitation.

Furthermore, Native American prisoners frequently struggle to maintain their cultural identity while incarcerated. Access to traditional ceremonies, language resources, and spiritual guidance is limited, undermining the prisoners' connection to their heritage and hindering their path towards healing.

A Call for Reform

The Native American prison story serves as a reminder of the urgent need for prison reform in the United States. It highlights the importance of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approaches within the criminal justice system, addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by Native American prisoners.

To break the cycle of incarceration, comprehensive efforts are required, including investment in education, mental health services, addiction treatment, and alternatives to imprisonment. Access to culturally relevant programs and resources can empower Native American prisoners to reclaim their identities, heal from past traumas, and reintegrate into society as productive citizens.

An Ongoing Journey

While the Native American prison story represents a complex and troubling chapter in American history, it also holds within it the seeds of resilience, hope, and ongoing transformation.

By shedding light on these untold stories, we have an opportunity to not only learn from the past but also work towards a future where Native American prisoners are provided with the support and resources they need to heal, grow, and thrive beyond the prison walls.

Our Ancestors Are Proud!: A Native American Prison Story

by Tanis C. Thorne (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7206 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	52 pages

FREE

Since elementary school, and amongst many new era people of this land, a peculiar story of the finding of this land is taught, retold, analyzed, and dramatized. The story of Christopher Columbus, Pocahontas, slavery and many historic First Nations Peoples. It's a part of America and is speculated to one day wake up those having American dreams and show them a happy and peaceful reality.

"Remember, in order to know where we are going, we must respect and understand that from which we came."

My wishes are that the readers research the vast history of this land and understand that, if they were born here, you too are indigenous to this land, and this land had a name, a culture, and an identity way before it was labeled America. And it still does.

But this book dives deep into a dark and untold story.

State Correctional Institution Benner

Bellefonte, Pennsylvania

April 2019

R.R. Banks

The lives of Native Americans in the American prison system.