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The interactive forum will focus on the representation of
Indigenous peoples in children's and young adult literature
involving cultural sensitivity, stereotypes, and authenticity. It
will provide critical perspectives in analyzing the portrayal of
indigenous peoples in children's and young adult books, building
on the worked of respected children's literature specialists.
Session participants will be engaged in a discussion of "who is
telling the story" and will have the opportunity to examine
samples of children's literature and enter into the dialogue of
what are the criteria for evaluating culturally sensitive, authentic
literary content.
"People are often powerless, alone, afraid;
this is because someone else is telling their story for them:
‘You are stupid. You are ugly. You are undesirable.
You are useless.’ Through storytelling, you recognize
your real story."
Joseph Bruchac, Abenaki
With the deluge of information and children’s literature growing
exponentially, there is a conscious responsibility in discerning
accuracy, cultural authenticity and sensitivity when reading to our
children or students. This interface invites dialogue and
conversations that validate and recognize the identities of children
who are not part of the dominant privileged experience.
Our presentation will help you recognize and appreciate quality and authenticity in children’s literature, as well as identify bias, stereotypes, and microagressions.
May we approach books we read and share, for ourselves and for our children, with a healthy skepticism and habit of looking for certain criteria and asking certain questions about each book that passes through our hands. The big question is always whose voice is doing the talking, author's credibility and authenticity, which should be shared with the reader.
Thank you for joining us today at ATALM. We look forward to the
experiences and stories we will learn from you and share during our
time together.
Jean Whitehorse & Frances Vitali, Ph.D.
Dine´ College
P.O. Box 1742
Crownpoint, NM 87313
505.786.7717
Jean Whitehorse
University of New Mexico
San Juan Center
4601 College Blvd.
Farmington, NM 87402
505.566.3480
Frances Vitali
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