Representation of Indigenous Peoples in K–Social Studies Curricula

Public project summary

In a nationwide study of Americans’ attitudes towards Indigenous Peoples, Reclaiming Native Truth found that “Contemporary Native Americans are, for the most part, invisible in the United States” (Reclaiming Native Truth, 2018). Indeed, Indigenous voices are frequently missing or misrepresented in American society—especially in education. Such lack of accurate education on the history and modern life of Indigenous communities fosters a breeding ground of misconceptions and stereotypes that hinder support for Indigenous issues. Accordingly, this research project seeks to understand how Indigenous Peoples are represented within the K–curriculum of a local school district. Through analysis of social studies textbooks and interviews with district teachers, the study aims to reveal areas of growth to ultimately expand students’ awareness of the historical and contemporary experiences of Indigenous Peoples.