National Day of Mourning: A Brief History of Native American Genocide

The National Day of Mourning stands as a solemn reminder of the painful history that Native Americans have endured throughout centuries. This day—observed on Thanksgiving— serves as a counter-narrative to the widely celebrated holiday, prompting us to reflect on the profound impact of American colonization and the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities. To understand the significance of the National Day of Mourning, an exploration of the dark chapters of indigenous colonization history is necessary.

Pre-Columbian Era:
Before the arrival of European settlers, North America was home to a rich variety of indigenous cultures—each with its unique traditions, languages, and societal structures. Native Americans cultivated sustainable relationships with the land, living in harmony with nature for centuries.

Contact and Colonization (1492-1607):
In 1492, Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas, marking the beginning of European contact with indigenous peoples. As European powers expanded their colonies, conflicts arose, leading to violence and the spread of diseases like smallpox, devastating native populations. This phenomenon—often considered biological terror—swept out over half of the native population, and in doing so, eradicated several cultures and languages. 
The Trail of Tears (1838-1839):
One of the darkest episodes in American history, the Trail of Tears resulted from the forced removal of the Cherokee Nation from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to the Indian Territory (now Oklahoma). Thousands of Cherokee died during this brutal relocation, highlighting the U.S. government's disregard for indigenous lives.

The Indian Wars (1860s-1890s):
A series of conflicts erupted as settlers encroached further into indigenous territories, leading to the displacement and loss of native lands. The Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890 marked a tragic end to armed conflicts, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Lakota Sioux.

Assimilation Policies (Late 19th to Early 20th Century):
The U.S. government implemented policies aimed at assimilating Native Americans into mainstream American culture. Boarding schools were established to eradicate native languages and cultural practices, contributing to the erosion of indigenous identities and communities.

Termination Era (1950s-1960s):
During the mid-20th century, the U.S. government pursued a policy of termination, attempting to eliminate the special relationship between tribes and the federal government. This policy led to the loss of tribal sovereignty and lands, representing an erosion of the promises previously made to indigenous people.

Modern Struggles and Activism:
Despite centuries of adversity, Native American communities persist, advocating for their rights, land, and cultural preservation. Movements like Standing Rock—which protested the Dakota Access Pipeline—have brought attention to the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous peoples and their fight for environmental justice. 
One of the most pressing, yet overlooked challenges, is indigenous lawyerless justice. Owing to a severe shortage of indigenous lawyers, most domestic abuse victims and impoverished native residents are forced to lose their cases in indigenous courts. Making matters worse, innocent defendants are squared off against well-versed Western lawyers in federal courts, further widening the economic and power asymmetries rife within our legal system. 
​
Closing thoughts:
The National Day of Mourning serves as a meaningful occasion to reflect on the enduring legacy of Native American genocide. By acknowledging the historical injustices and contemporary struggles faced by indigenous communities, Americans can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.