Native youth deal with historical guilt

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2002

The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs on Thursday held a hearing on issues facing Native youth.

Various Indian youth experts testified to the abysmal conditions of Indian youth, who are prone to suicide and poor physical health. According to Teresa Dorsett, educational program coordinator for the Cheyenne-Arapaho Tribe of Oklahoma, American Indians have a "historical unresolved grief."

She goes on to say: "We don't feel good enough about ourselves to make health a priority," as reported by The Daily Oklahoman.

Neal McCaleb, head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, touted his early childhood development program which teaches parenting, job and educational skills. Tribal advocates claim more activities are needed for youth.

Get the Story:
Despairing Indian youths need help, Senate told (The Daily Oklahoman 8/2)

Relevant Documents:
Written Witness Testimony (8/1)