Pathways to Elevating Indigenous Voices in Anthropology

Abstract

American Anthropology has a foundation of using Indigenous people, often Native Americans, as research objects. As a Navajo researcher and anthropologist in the 21st century, I believe that this foundation of literature and research presents an ideal landscape for Indigenous voices to be heard, both because of the longstanding history with and objectification of Indigenous people. The work I share with you in this dissertation aims to acknowledge unfortunate histories and move those discussions forward in productive ways that benefit Native American people. Anthropology, and knowledge in general, have been used to empower colonialism and displace Native communities; Scientists today must repair colonial relationships by producing knowledge in partnership with study communities.