The Department of the Interior has announced new partnerships with the U.S. Library of Congress and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History as part of its Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative. These agreements aim to preserve survivor stories through an oral history project and educate the public about the federal Indian boarding school system's impact on Indigenous children and their communities.
President Biden recently visited the Gila River Indian Community with Secretary Deb Haaland, where he issued a formal apology to Native communities for past atrocities committed through this system. Secretary Haaland emphasized, "We are here because our ancestors persevered. Their stories – our stories – are everywhere – in the air we breathe and the land we walk on."
Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland stated, "Ensuring this history is told is just the beginning of a long effort to heal our nation." The initiative includes an oral history project documenting experiences of those who attended these schools, conducted by the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition.
The agreement with the Library of Congress will preserve these oral histories, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations. Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden remarked, "Placing them in the care of our American Folklife Center will ensure that this collection of stories remains available as a resource, lesson and reminder for posterity."
The partnership with the National Museum of American History aims to develop educational resources and exhibitions showcasing aspects of this system's history. Anthea M. Hartig, Director at the museum, noted their commitment to sharing these stories: "By engaging audiences with this difficult period that is part of our shared history, we aim to foster understanding, dialogue and reflection on its lasting impact on Indian Country and the nation."
This preservation work is supported by investments totaling $13.6 million from various foundations including the National Endowment for the Humanities and Mellon Foundation.
Launched in June 2021 by Secretary Haaland, this initiative represents a comprehensive federal effort to address intergenerational impacts and trauma resulting from past policies. A recent report recommended telling these schools' story to both Americans and a global audience.