American Indigenous Resources

Understanding Our Shared Heritage

Welcome to a resource hub dedicated to deepening our understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, and the vital role we all play as treaty people. Here, you’ll find curated links, insightful materials, and educational tools designed to support a respectful and meaningful journey of learning. Whether you’re new to these concepts or looking to expand your knowledge, this space encourages you to engage, reflect, and recognize the shared responsibilities that come with living on treaty land. Join us in honoring this legacy and in building connections rooted in respect and shared understanding.

Native Land

Native Land is a resource to learn more about Indigenous territories, languages, lands, and ways of life.

Click here to view Native Land Map

Native American Reservations, Explained.

How did Native Americans end up on Reservations? We explore the complicated relationship between the Indian Nations and the United States of America. This episode unpacks the legacy of Treaties and their effect on modern legislation. We answer the most important question: why do Native Americans continue to live and grow their families there?

Watch Tai Leclaire breakdown all you need to know about the Reservation system and why “Rez Life” is critical to the Native American experience.

Indigenous Land Stewardship

This "Tending Nature" special features multiple perspectives and voices from Indigenous communities across California who are striving to keep the practices of their heritage alive. From coming-of-age rituals, seasonal food harvests, basket weaving and jewelry making, the documentary shares how traditional practices can be protected and maintained as a way of life for future generations.

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) was adopted by the General Assembly on Thursday, 13 September 2007, by a majority of 144 states in favour, 4 votes against (Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States) and 11 abstentions (Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burundi, Colombia, Georgia, Kenya, Nigeria, Russian Federation, Samoa and Ukraine)

Click here to view the United Nations

Native American History Timeline

Long before Christopher Columbus stepped foot on what would come to be known as the Americas, the expansive territory was inhabited by Native Americans. Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, as more explorers sought to colonize their land, Native Americans responded in various stages, from cooperation to indignation to revolt.

Included are events that shaped Native Americans’ tumultuous history following the arrival of foreign settlers.

Click here to view the American History Timeline

First Contact in the Americas

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Click here to view the American History Timeline

Native American and Indigenous Peoples FAQs

To learn more about Native American and Indigenous Affairs, UCLA has put together some frequently asked questions.

Click here to view the FAQs

Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons

The Department of Justice is committed to addressing the persistent violence endured by Native American families and communities across the country, including by working with Tribal nations to address the important issues of missing or murdered indigenous persons. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. It also recognizes the broader public safety and public health concerns that underlie many of these cases and require solutions from across the Department's components.

Click here to visit the US Dept. of Justice Website

The Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears

The Cherokee adjusted to White U.S. culture and won a case at the Supreme Court, but were still forced off their land.

Click here to visit the National Geographic Website

American Reservation Map

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Click here to view the Reservation Map