Trey of Diamonds
Well-Known Member
Catholic Diocese apologizes for Wisconsin student punished over speaking in family's Native American language at school
Americanization of Native Americans
The Acadians of Louisiana also went through an Americanization process that included the punishment of school children who spoke a language other than English.
Washinawatok said her 12-year-old daughter, Miranda, interpreted the words "Hello" and "I love you" and then added how to say "thank you" when talking to two girls in class Jan. 19.
She said Gurta overheard and "slammed her hands down on the desk and stated, 'You are not to speak like that. How do I know you're not saying something bad? How would you like if I spoke in Polish and you didn't understand?'"
The girl was benched from a basketball game later that day for having "an attitude problem," Washinawatok said she was told.
Washinawatok said she met with diocese and school officials, including the teacher, over the past month and they agreed to send apology letters. Washinawatok explained the issue is sensitive because tribal members used to be beaten for speaking their language in the schools, which is part of the reason they are losing their language.
Americanization of Native Americans
The Acadians of Louisiana also went through an Americanization process that included the punishment of school children who spoke a language other than English.