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Real Indians: Identity and the Survival of Native America
Real Indians: Identity and the Survival of Native America by Eva Marie Garroutte offers a compelling exploration of Native American identity in the modern era. Garroutte, a Cherokee sociologist and scholar, examines the evolving frameworks of racial identification—legal, biological, cultural, and self-identified—and their implications for the recognition and survival of Native American identities.
Through her concept of "radical indigenism," Garroutte advocates for Indigenous communities to reclaim their identity on their own terms, rooted in traditional philosophies, kinship systems, and cultural practices rather than external criteria. Her work not only critiques the shifting paradigms of racial consciousness but also provides pathways for empowering and preserving Native American cultures.
A thought leader in the fields of identity politics and Indigenous studies, Garroutte’s insights challenge readers to reconsider what it means to be "real Indians" in the 21st century. This book is a vital resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of race, identity, and survival in Native America.
About the Author
Eva Marie Garroutte is a renowned Cherokee sociologist, scholar, and author known for her influential work in the fields of identity, Indigenous studies, and sociology. She is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and has dedicated much of her career to exploring the complexities of Native American identity, cultural preservation, and the impact of external frameworks on Indigenous communities.
Garroutte is best known for her groundbreaking book, Real Indians: Identity and the Survival of Native America, where she introduces the concept of "radical indigenism," advocating for Indigenous communities to reclaim their identities based on traditional values, philosophies, and kinship systems. Her research critiques the legal, biological, cultural, and self-identification methods often imposed on Native communities, offering an empowering perspective rooted in Indigenous thought.
In addition to her writing, Garroutte has contributed to academic and community-based projects aimed at preserving Native languages, cultural traditions, and identity. She is recognized as a thought leader in Indigenous studies and continues to inspire dialogue on issues critical to Native American survival and empowerment.