why is poverty so prominent among Native Americans?
http://www.spotlightonpoverty.org/ExclusiveCommentary.aspx?id=0fe5c04e-fdbf-4718-980c-0373ba823da7
http://www.perc.org/articles/article170.php
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EPF/is_n20_v96/ai_19199273
Poverty among Native Americans, like any other community, is a complex issue that cannot be attributed to a single cause. However, there are several factors that contribute to the higher prevalence of poverty among Native American populations. To understand this better, we need to consider historical, social, economic, and systemic factors. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Historical Context: Native American communities have faced centuries of oppression, colonization, forced assimilation, and displacement. These factors have significantly disrupted their traditional ways of life, resulting in economic and social challenges.
2. Land Loss and Displacement: Native Americans have experienced significant loss of ancestral lands, which were a crucial source of livelihood and sustenance. The loss of land and resources has had profound economic consequences for Native communities.
3. Limited Economic Opportunities: Many Native American communities are located in remote and rural areas with limited access to employment opportunities, infrastructure, and economic development. This lack of economic diversity and job prospects hinders the growth and prosperity of these communities.
4. Educational Disparities: Native American communities face disparities in accessing quality education. Issues like underfunded schools, limited resources, cultural insensitivity, and distance to educational institutions contribute to lower educational attainment levels, which can impact future employment opportunities and wage levels.
5. Healthcare Disparities: Native Americans often experience inadequate access to healthcare services. This can lead to poorer health outcomes, higher healthcare costs, and increased vulnerability to health-related financial crises.
6. Discrimination and Marginalization: Persistent discrimination and marginalization can create barriers to economic and social mobility for Native Americans. Stereotypes, prejudice, and exclusion contribute to limited job opportunities, wage gaps, and socio-economic disparities.
7. Systemic Factors: Poverty among Native Americans is also rooted in systemic issues, including inadequate government policies, insufficient tribal sovereignty, and limited resources for development and self-governance. These systemic challenges can hinder economic growth and exacerbate poverty rates.
To address these complex issues, comprehensive solutions are needed. Promoting tribal sovereignty, improving access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities, ensuring fair policies, and fostering cultural revitalization efforts are among the strategies suggested to combat poverty among Native American communities.