(further information, timeline, glossary, sources, author’s note) The illustrations, too, change their tenor, modulating from historical wrongs to emphasize contemporary strength, community, and joy.Īn emphatic, triumphant declaration: “WE ARE STILL HERE!” The tribes “protect and provide for future generations” by holding on to their traditional ceremonies, opening businesses to support their tribal members, and reviving their tribal languages. When activists speak up and organize, it strengthens tribal sovereignty.

With “Termination” and “Relocation,” Native people were encouraged to leave their tribal lands and “act more like white people.” But Indigenous people say, “We are still here!” and the narrative arc turns to emphasize resilience. Dividing plots of tribal land for “Allottment” left much treaty land open for public sale. leaders used schooling to destroy Native traditions. They show why Indigenous people say, “We are still here!” In the “Assimilation” presentation, Native children are dressed in militarylike uniforms, showing how U.S. Spread by spread, each child speaks, featured words and terms highlighting the journey Native Nations have taken to reclaim their land and rights. Lessac’s trademark colorful, folk-art–style illustrations show a Native American community school with a classroom of diverse students preparing for presentations at the Indigenous People’s Day assembly. In this meticulously researched nonfiction picture book, Sibert honorees Sorell and Lessac team up once again to answer this question: What has happened to Native Nations and their citizens after the treaties with the U.S.

We are still here by traci sorell