Last Native American Boarding School Closure: When?

Hey guys! Let's dive into a really important and often overlooked part of American history: Native American boarding schools. These schools have a dark past, and understanding when the last one closed helps us grasp the long-lasting impact they've had on Native communities. So, when did the era of these institutions finally come to an end?

The Last Native American Boarding School: A Complex Answer

Pinpointing the exact date of the last Native American boarding school's closure can be a bit tricky. Here’s why: the term "boarding school" can be interpreted in different ways, and the operation and oversight of these schools changed over time. Many schools transitioned from being directly run by the government or religious organizations to being managed by tribal entities. Some schools also shifted their focus, becoming more like regular private schools with a Native American focus.

The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) still operates schools today that have boarding facilities. These schools aren't exactly the same as the historical boarding schools, where the explicit goal was assimilation, but they do provide a place for students to live while attending school. As of my last update, schools like Chemawa Indian School in Oregon and Sherman Indian High School in California continue to offer boarding programs. These schools, while evolved, still carry the weight of their historical context. Therefore, if we're talking about schools with a direct lineage to the assimilation-era boarding schools and that still offer boarding, they technically still exist.

However, if we're talking about schools that actively and intentionally sought to erase Native culture and identity, the picture looks different. Many of these closed down throughout the 20th century, especially after the Meriam Report in 1928, which exposed the horrific conditions and failures of the boarding school system. The report led to reforms, but the closure of these schools was a gradual process.

So, to answer the question directly: it depends on how you define "boarding school." Some schools with historical ties are still around, but the ones with the explicit mission of forced assimilation are largely a thing of the past. It’s a nuanced issue, and the legacy of these schools continues to affect Native communities today.

The History and Purpose of Native American Boarding Schools

To really understand when the last of these schools closed (or evolved), it's crucial to know why they existed in the first place. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the U.S. government implemented a policy of forced assimilation of Native Americans. The idea was to strip Native children of their culture, language, and traditions and integrate them into white American society. This policy was rooted in the belief that Native cultures were inferior and that assimilation was the only way for Native people to survive.

Boarding schools were the primary tool for carrying out this policy. Native children were forcibly removed from their families and communities and sent to these schools, often far away from their homes. At the schools, they were forbidden from speaking their native languages, practicing their traditions, or wearing their traditional clothing. Their hair was often cut, and they were given new, English names. The schools were often run by religious organizations, who saw it as their mission to "civilize" Native children.

The curriculum at these schools was designed to prepare Native children for menial labor. Boys were taught vocational skills like farming and carpentry, while girls were taught domestic skills like cooking and cleaning. Academic education was often minimal, and the focus was on instilling obedience and conformity. The conditions at these schools were often harsh, with inadequate food, clothing, and medical care. Physical and emotional abuse were rampant, and many children died at the schools.

The impact of these schools on Native communities was devastating. Generations of Native children were traumatized by their experiences, and the loss of language and culture had a profound impact on Native identity. The boarding school system also disrupted family structures and undermined tribal sovereignty. The legacy of these schools continues to be felt today, with many Native people still struggling with the trauma and loss they experienced.

Key Legislation and Reports Affecting Boarding Schools

Several key pieces of legislation and reports influenced the operation and eventual decline of Native American boarding schools. Understanding these milestones provides context to the timeline of their existence and the changing attitudes toward Native American education.

• The Indian Civilization Act of 1819: This act provided funding to religious organizations to establish schools for Native American children. It laid the groundwork for the boarding school system and formalized the government's policy of assimilation.
• The Dawes Act of 1887: Also known as the General Allotment Act, this law broke up tribal lands into individual allotments. This further undermined tribal sovereignty and made it easier for the government to acquire land for boarding schools.
• The Meriam Report of 1928: This landmark report, officially titled "The Problem of Indian Administration," exposed the failures of the boarding school system. It documented the poor living conditions, inadequate education, and rampant abuse at the schools. The report called for reforms to the system, including increased funding for schools, improved teacher training, and greater emphasis on Native American culture and language. While it didn't immediately close the schools, it marked a turning point in public opinion and government policy.
• The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975: This act allowed tribal governments to contract with the federal government to administer programs and services, including education. This gave tribes more control over the education of their children and led to the establishment of tribally controlled schools.

The Lasting Impact and Legacy

The legacy of Native American boarding schools is complex and painful. While the explicit goal of forced assimilation is no longer the official policy, the impact of these schools continues to be felt in Native communities today. The trauma experienced by survivors has been passed down through generations, contributing to issues like substance abuse, mental health problems, and high rates of suicide. The loss of language and culture has also had a profound impact on Native identity, making it difficult for many Native people to connect with their heritage. However, it's also important to acknowledge the resilience and strength of Native communities. Despite the challenges they have faced, Native people have worked tirelessly to preserve their languages, cultures, and traditions. They have also fought for justice and equality, demanding accountability for the injustices of the past.

Today, there is a growing movement to acknowledge and address the legacy of Native American boarding schools. Survivors and their descendants are sharing their stories, seeking healing, and advocating for policies that support Native American education and well-being. The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition is working to raise awareness about the boarding school system and to provide resources for survivors and their families.

Understanding the history of Native American boarding schools is essential for promoting healing and reconciliation. It requires acknowledging the injustices of the past and working towards a future where Native American cultures and languages are valued and respected. The conversation is ongoing, and it’s something we should all be a part of.

Conclusion

So, while there isn't a single, definitive answer to when the last Native American boarding school closed, understanding the history, the policies, and the ongoing impact is what truly matters. The schools designed for forced assimilation are largely gone, but their legacy lives on. Acknowledging this history, supporting Native communities, and promoting healing are essential steps towards a more just and equitable future. Let’s keep learning, keep listening, and keep working together to make a difference, guys!