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Tom Barbano
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Workforce Success Director
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Ceilia Tarnowski M.A.
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Communication Instructor
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Indigenous Myths Debunked

There are myriad misconceptions and racist stereotypes about Native Americans. If not properly dispelled, they might result in Indigenous students not receiving the support they deserve from Northwood Tech faculty and staff.

For example, a common myth is that tribal members are able to attend college for free. In actuality, the amount of financial support each student might have varies based on which tribe they belong to. Belief in this myth could cause college staff to dismiss a student's need for aid, incorrectly believing that they are already covered.

Likewise, stereotypes and racist caricatures of Indigenous peoples, make for unsafe learning environments as instructors and fellow students operate off of false and harmful assumptions.

Explore the links below to discover the harm behind myths and the truths debunking them.

• 400 Years Later, ‘We Did Not Vanish’ (Indian Country Today)

• Debunking 10 Misconceptions About Michigan’s Native Americans (Bridge, Michigan paper)

• Frequently Asked Questions (U.S. Department of the Interior: Indian Affairs)

• Stereotyping Native Americans (Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia)

• Wisconsin Tribal Leader Dispels Myths About American Indians in State Address