It was brought to my attention that in centering my work I neglected to recognize the work of Native librarians and scholars who have been doing this work for many years. In my efforts to promote quality books, I missed the chance to amplify voices of Native scholars / organizations / sites that are my go-to resources for finding Native perspectives and guidance on evaluating books with Native content. I am adding several of them to the beginning of this post and encourage you to visit/follow them, read their work, and use their recommendations to guide your book selection. They have all informed my work, practice, & understanding of Native Nations' cultures and representation.
Oyate "a Native organization working to see that our lives and histories are portrayed with honesty and integrity, and that all people know that our stories belong to us. For Indian children growing up in the 21st century, it is as important as ever for them to know who they are and learn about the histories that they come from. For all children, it is time to know and acknowledge the truths of history. Only then will they come to have the understanding and respect for each other that now, more than ever, will be necessary for life to continue."
Original Post 10/30/19:
My November #classroombookday post for Follett Community this year shares my picture book recommendations for Honoring Voices of Native Nations. My post is timed to align with Native American Heritage Month, but I hope you'll share these books with your students throughout the year, not just in November, because all students deserve to be represented in the classroom all year long. Please visit this link to read my entire post supporting these recommendations with more context and guidance for critically analyzing Native representation in books you choose to share with students.
All of my Follett #classroombookaday posts/webinars & this year's book recommendation lists are at bit.ly/heisefollett. All of my info on #classroombookaday is at classroombookaday.com.
Also important for when you are searching for titles, I compiled
critical considerations of Native representation from my recent MLIS research of Native scholars and researchers.
Also important for when you are searching for titles, I compiled
critical considerations of Native representation from my recent MLIS research of Native scholars and researchers.