WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL classes discuss Native American experiences

On February 1, Chief Ted Roll of the Wyandotte Indians, along with two of his associates, spoke to social studies classes at West Middle School.  

They discussed the Native American experience, past and present. They explained how the Downnriver area was their homeland before many were displaced to Canada, Ohio, Kansas and Oklahoma.      

This marked a very dark period in U.S. history, because the American government issued the policy of “assimilate or annihilate” these indigenous people. Many children were taken from their families to be educated in the ways of the “white man.”

Fortunately today Native American are free to celebrate their culture. There are about 1,300 Native Americans who belong to the Wyandotte Tribe.  Their strong voice and educational policies continue to enlighten everyone about their past struggles and present victories.