Consider the choices of Native Americans who decide to stay on their tribe's native land (reservation) and

Question

those who choose to relocate to a city.If you were presented with this decision, which would you choose and why?

Answer 1

Many Native folks choose to stay on the rez, and many choose to leave for jobs or education.

I teach many Native young folks at a non-Native institution, and it's really hard for many of them, especially since the academic calendar is not geared to deal with the needs of traditional religion and traditional family demands.

However, lots of these Native young folks who have opted for education off-rez, plan to (and do!) return to the rez to reconnect with family, and to offer themselves as workers for the benefit of the community.

There are also lots of Native folks who leave home and don't come back, often because of greater economic (and other) opportunities off the rez.

I must say that in truth, I most admire those who return home (or work in off-rez national Native advocacy organizations and such) after receiving higher education elsewhere (including Native colleges). I appreciate their values, and their determination to serve their people in whatever capacity they can. If I were in their shoes, I really hope I'd have the strong community orientation, the conviction, the idealism, the guts and the determination to do the same.

Answer 2

I am eastern band Cherokee. I love my home but there is very little opportunity there. The poverty rate is high on most reservations. Since i am a woman and married a military man I would not have this choice. I have know many people who have had to make that choice for financial reasons. I have to say, I feel disconnected out where I am now and don't feel like I fit in.

Answer 3

I would choose to broaden my horizons and relocate. The reason being, there is so much more to learn about life, and other humans that cannot be obtained by life on a reservation. With that said, I also believe in never forgetting where you came from and always keeping that a part of your life.

Answer 4

It might be good to get out and see some of the real world. Then you will appreciate the rez when you come back. Come back with something to give to your tribe, a good work ethic, good goals for yourself and your neighbors, ways to get along with non-tribal members, and a determination to keep your culture alive.

Answer 5

I beleive I would leave unless I could have just as good an education and good job opportunities nearby. Oh, unless of course we had our own casino, then I would stay and rake in the dough.