The Ute and the Paiute, the Goshute and the Navajo, and the Northern and Eastern Shoshone tribes had already lived here for centuries.
Leaders of Utah's tribes, speaking at the state's second annual Native American Summit in Cedar City last week, said Indian history, languages and culture are often ignored in public schools. And, in their opinion, it's having a devastating impact on the academic achievement of Native American students.
"It sends a strong message that their history doesn't matter, and many of them lose motivation in school," said Rupert Steele, chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Goshute Reservations.
While it's common knowledge that many Native American children in Utah struggle to graduate from high school and enroll in college, it's difficult to lay blame solely on the state's social studies curriculum. But it's safe to say that all students, as well as adults, would benefit from a better understanding of American Indian history and culture.
The tribal leaders had several concrete suggestions that, if embraced by the state, could serve as building blocks to a greater awareness and appreciation of Native American societies, while restoring pride and resolve in American Indian youths.
Steele, the Goshute leader, suggested legislation patterned after laws in other states that provide special training for teachers and give students access to American Indian courses. Manuel Heart, chairman of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, proposed a special license plate to raise money for Native Americans from Utah to attend college. And Joe Shirley Jr., president of the Navajo Nation, said it is "vital" that Native American history and culture become a more prominent part of elementary and secondary school curriculums.
Hopefully, state lawmakers and education officials will support their proposals. We can't change history. But we can change the way it's taught.
