Speaking of Indians

"Speaking of Indians" by Ella Cara Deloria offers an invaluable perspective on Dakota culture and the broader implications of intercultural understanding. Originally published in 1944 and reprinted in 1998, Deloria, a Yankton Sioux and distinguished scholar trained under Franz Boas, uses her deep roots and academic rigor to explore the rich kinship systems of the Dakotas and their tumultuous adaptation to reservation life. Her narrative, grounded in the precision of a linguist and the insight of an insider, argues persuasively for a more nuanced view of progress and success through the lens of indigenous rights and racial justice. This book is particularly suitable for adult education groups seeking to deepen their understanding of American Indian history and its enduring influence on contemporary social issues. Deloria's work challenges readers to reconsider what it means to participate fully in American life, making it as relevant today as when it first appeared. Engage with this classic to explore the intersections of culture, identity, and justice.