Native Enough

Makwa Enewed

by Nina O'Leary

The image many people hold of Native Americans today can be attributed largely to Edward Curtis, a late nineteenth-century, early twentieth-century American photographer whose work often focused on Native subjects. Oftentimes his work was staged, as Curtis believed that Natives and their cultures were being slowly eradicated. He was able to persuade his subjects to wear full regalia (regardless of whether it was from their own tribe) and to hide markers of cultural adaptation. Native Enough aims to dispel the stereotypical image of Natives so heavily influenced by Curtis. With interview excerpts included alongside the present-day portraits of Native college students, this collection allows for discussion about identity anxiety, tribal issues, moments of pride, and the change students want to effect through their education. The combination of black-and-white portraits and interview excerpts provides a poignant look at the faces of Native students, proving that stereotypes fall short in the faces of Native diversity.
 

Genres: Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

Published December 1, 2018

Reviews

[Ellen]

This was a very eye-opening study of what it means to be Native American, especially when you don't "look" like one. Especially when you go to a school where Native students get free tuition and you look white and have never lived on a reservation like many of your classmates. The stories that many of the students profiled told were deep and introspective. Others were...far from it. Kind of sadly far from it actually. But they were still interesting because they represented a different step on the road towards a developing identity. Very interesting book to read.

[Alynn]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading other indigenous people's perspectives about being native enough and their experiences and thoughts. It's something I wish I had more of an opportunity of, and there were many statements I could relate to.
The photography is a bit simplistic, though there is a reason and concept behind that.

[Amy]

We all struggle with and embrace parts of ourselves. Sometimes we can’t explain it to others, or we are very vocal and proud. It’s important to ask questions and listen intently because we are all trying to figure out who we are and how to live with each other.

[Amy Lyke]

I appreciated reading the words of and seeing the images of the people interviewed for the project. Hearing people’s perspectives is important in building understanding. This book offers that for readers. The photography is lovely as well.

[amy boese]

This is a beautiful book.

[Leonard]

Brief comments with photos from young Natives Americans about what it means to be a young native. Could and perhaps should be more in depths.

[Lisa Hedin]

This is a snapshot look into both the lives and thoughts of Natives and youth. So beautiful and complex.

[Devanie Andre]

It is a short read but holds a lot of power.

[Ann]

A powerful, beautiful book. Essential reading for everyone who lives in the United States.

[Arlie]

This is one of the most hopeful and affirming things I've read in a long time. Thank you for putting it together. I've had so many of these conversations with myself and members of my family. It's amazing to see it all collected in one book and from so many different voices. This was life changing. I was so proud to share it with my kid.