Remembering Indigenous History: The Past Is Never Over Over the
years, when discussing Indigenous history and many of the
injustices perpetrated upon the Native peoples who populate what
is now Hawai’i, Alaska and the continental U.S., I’ve often
heard people say, “That’s history and things are better now” or
“What’s [in the] past has passed; its time to move forward.” I
believe Native peoples have moved forward and are thriving in
many instances. Cultures and languages are being strengthened,
Native businesses and organizations are numerous, and a path has
been laid for a whole new generation of tech savvy Indigenous
leaders. There are Native lawyers, doctors, Ph.D.s, teachers,
athletes, entertainers and artists. It’s important to remember
that our progress as Native peoples has been gradual and each
generation is furthering the work of the last. Our progress is
the culmination of 50 years of marches, protests and lobbying.
My generation experienced the unrest of the late 60s and
turbulent 70s. In the 80s an