- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
The Fourth of July is a national holiday that many Native Americans have a hard time celebrating. The reasons vary, but one reason is that it reminds them of what was lost to many tribal communities to make room for what is now the United States.
Join Levi Rickert, publisher and editor of Native News Online, on Thursday, July 4, as he interviews author and lecturer Mark Charles (Navajo) about how he observes Independence Day.
In June 2015, Charles wrote an op/ed for Native News Online, entitled “The Dilemma of the Fourth of July.” We publish it every year. And, every year it is well received by our readers.
A provocative thinker, Charles links the Declaration of Independence to the Doctrine of Discovery, a topic he examines in his widely received book, "Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery."
During the interview, Charles provides a history lesson of why many Native Americans choose not to celebrate Independence Day.
Tune in to Native Bidaské LIVE this Thursday, July 4, at 12 Noon ET on Native News Online's Facebook, X (Twitter), or YouTube channel.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsNative News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Native Bidaské with Oliver (OJ) Semans on the 2024 Election and Wounded Knee Stain Act
17-year-old Chickasaw Youth Ranks Second as USA Archer
Take the Native News Online Readers' Survey
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.
No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.
