From Tragedies – to Transformation…
Just why would a family decide that reservation life is not what they choose for their family? The reasons are many, but some of the reasons are shocking.
Dying in Indian Country is one family’s story of hope.
What cannot be denied is that a large number of Native Americans are dying from alcoholism, drug abuse, suicide and violence. Further, scores of children are suffering emotional, physical and sexual abuse as a result – and the Indian Child Welfare Act is trapping more and more children into this unacceptable system.
While many tribal governments continue to fund congressional candidates who promise to increase tribal sovereignty, the voices of the children who are at the mercy of corrupt government continue to go unheard. The truth is that some tribal governments are not protecting the children in their “custody.” Instead, they are gathering children where they can because federal funding allocations are based on the U.S. census and tribal rolls.
An amazing transformational story, Dying in Indian Country, by Elizabeth Sharon Morris, provides a real glimpse into some of these unacceptable conditions. Dying in Indian Country tells a compelling true story of one family who after years of alcoholism and pain, comes to realize that corrupt tribal government, dishonest Federal Indian Policy, welfare policy, and the controlling reservation system has more to do with the current despair than the tragedies that occurred 150 years ago – then tells how, by the Grace of God, they came out of it.
A true story of pain, hope, and transformation –
“Dying in Indian Country is a compassionate and honest portrayal… I highly recommend it to you.” Reed Elley, former Member of Parliament, Canada; Chief Critic for Indian Affairs in 2000, Baptist Pastor, Father of four Native and Métis children
“He was a magnificent warrior who put himself on the line for the good of all…I can think of no one at this time, in this dark period of Indian history, who is able to speak as Roland has.” Arlene,Tribal Member
“…truly gripping, with a good pace.” Dr. William B. Allen, -Emeritus Professor, Political Science, MSU and former Chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (1989)
Dying in Indian Country is available at: http://dyinginindiancountry.
One Response to “Dying in Indian Country: A Family’s Painfully True Story”
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I was raised in abusive foster homes and even reported that to the head police woman after being interrogated by her. My 2 sisters n I were split up when this happened, age13,sister 12,youngest 8.They removed my sister 12 n left the 8yr old to get RAPED!It impacted my life. Committed to a Insane asylum @15.I was warehoused. Been on my own since I got out.Been beat in the homes as well as losing my identity,dignity,treated like slaves,lost our HAIR!Sad!I was a single mother trying to work but it was hard.I got into drinking and drugging, lost my children to foster care!I was treating my children the way I was as a child. My bio parents were alcoholics. My father, a decorated Korean War Hero. Purple heart, bronze star.I went to treatment because I didn’t want my kids to go through what I did. Too late. When they were returned to me, they had been sexuly abused like me as well as emotional. The tribe intervened. My upbringing effected my kids. My alcoholism ruined my life as well as my kids. I am 60 now n lost my son last year to Denver cops. It was the most painful thing I have ever endured. I called the police because he was having a episode. His name is Paul Castaway. His name is all over. Please help me find someone to help me write a book about my life. I want to help save lives after losing my son.I need to help the youth, people who have lost someone. I’ve also done radioblog shows. Please call me @ — — —-
I lost my sister in 1980.She had 1son.Been looking for him for 41 yrs.Found him!!Life is good. My spirituality is what keeps me going. Thank you for letting me tell you a small portion of my life.