Saint Mary's

Native North America describes the common struggle in diverse indigenous cultures to overcome the physical, psychological, and spiritual assault of colonialism, assimilation, and racism. The contributors to this wide-ranging collection of original essays share a commitment to resistance and to the spirit of survival so apparent in the works of indigenous peoples. Gathering force from their diverse perspectives and regional backgrounds, the thirteen essayists unite experience and expertise. Working against the conventional idea that Native North American literatures are primarily of anthropological and sociological value, they emphasize the importance of artistic expression in the life of native communities. Their provocative essays deal with such topics as Native North American history, law, oral narratives, poetry, fiction, and film. Together, they proclaim the autonomy and the integrity of Native North America.