The Apache People’s Relationship with the US Government’s Boarding Schools

A Legacy of Trauma and Betrayal

The Apache people’s relationship with the US government’s boarding schools is a painful and complex one, marked by a legacy of trauma, betrayal, and cultural erasure. For over a century, the US government forcibly removed Apache children from their families and communities, sending them to boarding schools where they were forced to abandon their native language, culture, and traditions.

The Boarding School Era

The boarding school era in the United States began in the late 19th century, as part of the government’s assimilation policy aimed at eradicating Native American cultures and languages. Apache children were taken from their families, often under the guise of providing them with education and care. In reality, they were subjected to physical and emotional abuse, forced labor, and cultural suppression.

The Carlisle Indian Industrial School

One of the most infamous boarding schools was the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, founded in 1879 by Richard Henry Pratt. This school was designed to “civilize” Apache and other Native American children, forcing them to abandon their native languages, cultures, and traditions. The school’s motto, “Kill the Indian, Save the Man,” reflects the government’s assimilation policy of eradicating Native American cultures and replacing them with European-American values.

The Impact on Apache People

The boarding school era had a devastating impact on the Apache people, leading to intergenerational trauma, cultural loss, and social and economic disparities. Many Apache children were forced to abandon their native languages, cultures, and traditions, leading to a loss of cultural identity and community cohesion. The trauma inflicted on Apache people during this period continues to be felt today, with many communities struggling to recover from the legacy of boarding schools.

Reconciliation and Healing

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the harm caused by the boarding school era, with many governments and institutions acknowledging their role in perpetuating cultural erasure and trauma. The Apache people are working towards reconciliation and healing, through efforts such as language and cultural revitalization, historical preservation, and community-based initiatives. While the road to healing is long and difficult, the Apache people remain committed to preserving their cultural identity and community cohesion.

Conclusion

The Apache people’s relationship with the US government’s boarding schools is a painful and complex one, marked by a legacy of trauma, betrayal, and cultural erasure. As we move forward, it is essential to acknowledge and learn from this painful history, working towards reconciliation and healing for the Apache people and all those affected by the boarding school era.