What is the term "Pretendian" used to describe?

The term "Pretendian" is a pejorative colloquialism for a person who engages in Indigenous identity fraud. It refers to a non-Indigenous person who falsely and publicly claims an Indigenous identity.

What is the etymological origin of the word "Pretendian"?

The word "Pretendian" is a portmanteau, formed by combining the words "pretend" and "Indian."

How does Indigenous identity fraud manifest in the United States, according to the provided text?

In the United States, Indigenous identity fraud often involves an individual falsely and publicly claiming to be Native American.

What forms can Indigenous identity fraud take in Canada?

In Canada, Indigenous identity fraud can involve a person falsely and publicly claiming to be a First Nations person, Métis, or Inuit.

How is Indigenous identity fraud related to the concept of cultural appropriation?

Indigenous identity fraud is considered an extreme form of cultural appropriation. This is especially true when an individual falsely claiming an Indigenous identity asserts that they can represent and speak for communities from which they do not originate.

According to an APTN National News investigation, what negative impacts did "pretendians" have in the film industry?

An investigation by APTN National News in Canada found that pretendians in the film industry contributed to the promotion of stereotypes, typecasting, and a phenomenon referred to as "redface."

What perspective did Rebecca Nagle of the Cherokee Nation offer on how "pretendians" undermine Indigenous rights?

Rebecca Nagle stated that pretendians perpetuate the myth that Native identity is determined by the individual rather than the tribe or community. This directly undermines tribal sovereignty and Native self-determination, and she argued that challenging these false narratives is crucial for protecting Indigenous rights.

What concerns did U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo express regarding non-Indigenous individuals assuming Native identities?

Joy Harjo noted the significant increase of non-Indigenous people assuming Native identities, termed "Pretendians." She highlighted issues arising from DNA tests and individuals asserting Native identity without cultural understanding or participation in their tribal nations. Harjo viewed these claims as potentially individualistic, capitalist endeavors that resemble colonial offenses, rather than benefiting Indigenous communities.

What is the definition of a "defendian" within the context of discussions about Indigenous identity?

A "defendian" is a slang term used to describe a person who defends individuals accused of being pretendians.

What does the term "Karendian" refer to in this context?

A "Karendian" is a slang term for a person who actively calls out or challenges those identified as pretendians.

How is the term "descendian" defined in relation to Indigenous identity claims?

A "descendian" is defined as a person who possesses distant, trace Indigenous ancestry but is not a member of the Indigenous nation with which they might claim affiliation.

Who initiated the "Alleged Pretendians List," and what was the context for its creation?

Navajo journalist Jacqueline Keeler began investigating "settler self-indigenization" in academia in January 2021. This investigation, conducted with the help of other Indigenous individuals, genealogists, and historians, led to the creation of the "Alleged Pretendians List."

What research methods were employed in compiling the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Jacqueline Keeler and her collaborators examined family histories dating back as far as the 1600s and investigated current community connections to verify claims of Indigenous ancestry and identity. They collaborated with individuals in tribal enrollment departments, genealogists, and historians.

Who were the primary subjects included in the initial "Alleged Pretendians List"?

The initial list, self-published by Keeler as a Google spreadsheet in 2021, contained approximately 200 public figures identified within academia and the entertainment industry.

What specific criteria did Jacqueline Keeler emphasize for inclusion on the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Keeler stressed that the list targets public figures who are monetizing and profiting from their claims to tribal identity and who assert themselves as spokespeople for Native American tribes. It does not include private citizens merely perceived as "wannabes."

What criticism did artist Nadema Agard, who was named on the list, direct at Jacqueline Keeler?

Nadema Agard criticized Jacqueline Keeler, accusing her of conducting a "witch hunt" with the "Alleged Pretendians List."

What was the reaction from Native leaders, such as Chief Ben Barnes of the Shawnee Tribe, regarding the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Chief Ben Barnes of the Shawnee Tribe expressed that Jacqueline Keeler's work had strong support within Native communities.

How does academic Kim TallBear connect the phenomenon of "pretendianism" to issues of white supremacy?

Kim TallBear observed that the "Alleged Pretendians List" documents how the overwhelming majority of individuals financially benefiting from pretendianism are white. She linked these false claims to white supremacy and the erasure of Indigenous peoples.

How does Kim TallBear differentiate "pretendians" from individuals with genuine, but disconnected, Indigenous heritage?

TallBear emphasizes that "pretendians" are fundamentally different from disconnected descendants who possess real heritage, such as those impacted by historical government programs like the Sixties Scoop, which forcibly removed Indigenous children from their families.

What specific concerns did Lakota journalist Alexandra Watson voice regarding her work's inclusion in the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Alexandra Watson stated that her article was used without her consent and that her writing should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the list. She also questioned the list's methodology and overall usefulness.

What criticisms did Northern Cheyenne journalist Angelina Newsom level against Jacqueline Keeler's research methods?

Newsom criticized Keeler for questioning the tribal enrollment of federally recognized members like Ben Nighthorse Campbell, for relying partly on Ancestry.com records, and for potentially causing harm to actual Native relatives listed. Newsom argued that tribes should be responsible for investigating citizenship claims.

How can the actions of individuals falsely claiming Indigenous identity impact Indigenous sovereignty?

By falsely claiming identity and sometimes purporting to speak for Indigenous communities, these individuals can undermine the inherent tribal sovereignty and the right of Indigenous nations to self-determination, as highlighted by Rebecca Nagle's commentary.

What constitutes "Indigenous identity fraud" as defined within the provided text?

Indigenous identity fraud occurs when a non-Indigenous person falsely and publicly claims an Indigenous identity, whether that be Native American in the U.S., or First Nations, Métis, or Inuit in Canada.

What is the "redface" phenomenon mentioned in relation to Indigenous identity fraud?

Redface refers to the act of non-Indigenous individuals falsely adopting or performing an Indigenous identity. This practice can contribute to harmful stereotypes and typecasting, as noted in the APTN investigation.

How does Joy Harjo characterize the motivations behind falsely claiming Indigenous identity, referring to it as a "capitalist claim"?

Joy Harjo suggests that when individuals assert a Native identity without genuine cultural understanding or participation in tribal nations, it can be seen as an individual's pursuit of personal or financial gain, akin to a colonial exploitation of identity.

What role do DNA tests play in the issues surrounding Indigenous identity claims, according to Joy Harjo?

Joy Harjo mentioned that DNA tests are creating complications, especially for individuals who discover Native DNA in their ancestry but lack cultural connection or tribal affiliation, leading them to assert an identity they may not authentically hold.

Beyond Chief Ben Barnes, what other forms of support were indicated for Jacqueline Keeler's "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Native leaders interviewed by Voice of America expressed strong support for Keeler's work. Additionally, academic Dina Gilio-Whitaker reviewed Keeler's documentation on Sacheen Littlefeather and found the research to be sound.

What specific distinction does Jacqueline Keeler make regarding the individuals included on her "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Keeler clarified that the list focuses on public figures who are actively monetizing and profiting from their claimed tribal identities and speaking for Native tribes, differentiating them from private citizens who might simply be "wannabes."

How does Kim TallBear connect the financial benefits derived from "pretendianism" to broader societal issues?

TallBear connects the financial gains often realized by white individuals through pretendianism to the systemic issues of white supremacy and the ongoing erasure of Indigenous peoples and their authentic identities.

What specific accusations did skeptics make against Jacqueline Keeler concerning her methods and motivations?

Skeptics accused Keeler of exploiting the issue of Indigenous fraud for personal gain and of weaponizing concepts such as lateral violence, colonial trauma, and colonial recognition against individuals she had prior disputes with.

What potential negative consequences did Angelina Newsom highlight regarding the publication of information on the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Newsom expressed concern that the publication of private information could negatively impact actual Native individuals listed as relatives and in-laws of those on the list.

What specific phenomenon did Jacqueline Keeler investigate that led to the creation of the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Keeler initiated her investigation into "settler self-indigenization," which refers to the practice of non-Indigenous individuals adopting or claiming Indigenous identities.

Is the term "Pretendian" considered a neutral descriptor?

No, the text explicitly defines "Pretendian" as a pejorative colloquialism, indicating it is used in a derogatory or insulting manner.

What are the broader implications discussed regarding individuals falsely claiming Indigenous identity?

The text suggests that such false claims can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, undermine tribal sovereignty, constitute a form of cultural appropriation and colonial offense, and contribute to the erasure of Indigenous peoples and their histories.

Why is it considered important to distinguish between "pretendians" and individuals with genuine, albeit disconnected, Indigenous ancestry?

It is important because individuals with genuine ancestry, particularly those affected by historical trauma like the Sixties Scoop, have a verifiable heritage. In contrast, "pretendians" falsely claim an identity often for personal gain, which can harm and misrepresent actual Indigenous communities.

In which professional fields has the issue of "pretendians" been particularly prominent or investigated?

The issue has been notably prominent and investigated within academia and the film industry, with Jacqueline Keeler's work specifically focusing on the academic sphere.

Can you specify the Indigenous groups in Canada that identity fraud might involve, according to the text?

In Canada, Indigenous identity fraud can involve individuals falsely claiming to belong to First Nations, Métis, or Inuit peoples.

What specific accusation did Nadema Agard make against Jacqueline Keeler concerning the "Alleged Pretendians List"?

Nadema Agard accused Jacqueline Keeler of conducting a "witch hunt" through the creation and dissemination of the "Alleged Pretendians List."

According to the skeptics of the "Alleged Pretendians List," who holds the primary authority regarding Indigenous identity and citizenship?

The skeptics argued that Jacqueline Keeler should respect the rights of each tribe and urban inter-tribal communities to determine their own people, kin, and citizenship.

Does Jacqueline Keeler's "Alleged Pretendians List" include individuals who simply claim distant Indigenous ancestry without affiliation?

No, Keeler clarified that the list specifically targets public figures who profit from their claims and speak for Native tribes, distinguishing them from private citizens who might be considered "wannabes."

What does Joy Harjo imply when she refers to false Indigenous identity claims as a "capitalist claim" and a "colonial offense"?

Harjo implies that these claims are made for individual benefit, potentially financial, echoing historical colonial patterns where outsiders exploited Indigenous resources and identities. It represents a continuation of colonial harm through the appropriation of identity.

Is the term "pretendian" widely accepted or used within Indigenous communities as described in the text?

The text indicates that "pretendian" is a colloquial term used by Indigenous people. K.J. McCusker noted its common usage due to the impact of stolen identities, suggesting it is a recognized term within relevant communities.

How might the actions of "pretendians" negatively affect the authentic representation of Indigenous peoples?

By falsely claiming identity, "pretendians" can misrepresent Indigenous perspectives, reinforce harmful stereotypes, and potentially divert opportunities or recognition away from genuine community members, impacting how Indigenous peoples are perceived.

What is meant by the term "settler self-indigenization" as discussed in the article?

Settler self-indigenization refers to the practice where non-Indigenous individuals, particularly those descended from settlers in North America, adopt or claim Indigenous identities for themselves.

What potential motivations are suggested for individuals engaging in Indigenous identity fraud?

Motivations suggested include seeking personal or professional advancement, obtaining financial benefits such as scholarships or employment advantages, and potentially gaining social or spiritual capital through the claimed identity.

Why are public figures in academia and entertainment often the focus of scrutiny regarding "pretendian" claims?

These individuals often possess significant public platforms and influence, making their claims more visible and potentially more profitable. Their visibility draws scrutiny from those seeking accountability for the misuse or appropriation of Indigenous identity.

What is the fundamental difference between a "pretendian" and a "descendian" as defined in the text?

A "pretendian" falsely claims an Indigenous identity they do not possess, often for personal gain. A "descendian" has some trace Indigenous ancestry but lacks affiliation with a specific Indigenous nation, representing a different, though potentially related, category of identity claim.

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Definition

The Term "Pretendian"

The term "Pretendian" is a pejorative colloquialism used to describe individuals who engage in Indigenous identity fraud. It is a portmanteau derived from the words "pretend" and "Indian." A pretendian is fundamentally a non-Indigenous person who falsely and publicly claims an Indigenous identity.

Context and Scope

In the United States, this often involves individuals falsely claiming to be Native American. In Canada, the term applies to those who falsely claim to be First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. This practice is widely considered an extreme form of cultural appropriation.

Impact on Communities

When a pretendian asserts the ability to represent or speak for Indigenous communities to which they do not belong, it directly undermines tribal sovereignty and the principle of Indigenous self-determination. Such claims can misrepresent the authentic voices and experiences of Indigenous peoples.

Context and Impact

Stereotypes and Representation

The phenomenon of pretendians has been investigated for its role in promoting harmful stereotypes, typecasting, and the practice of "redface" within media and public life. APTN National News, for instance, explored how individuals in the film industry and beyond perpetuate these misrepresentations.

Academic Perspectives

Rebecca Nagle (Cherokee Nation) has articulated that pretendians directly challenge tribal sovereignty and self-determination by perpetuating the myth that Native identity is solely an individual choice rather than a community-based determination. She emphasizes the need to halt the dissemination of these false narratives.

"Pretendians perpetuate the myth that Native identity is determined by the individual, not the tribe or community, directly undermining tribal sovereignty and Native self-determination. To protect the rights of Indigenous people, pretendians...must be challenged and the retelling of their false narratives must be stopped."

Colonial Offense

Joy Harjo (Mvskoke), former U.S. Poet Laureate, has noted the complexities introduced by DNA testing, which can lead individuals to assert Native identity without cultural connection or community participation. She posits that such claims, particularly when they benefit individuals financially, represent a form of colonial offense, echoing historical patterns of exploitation.

"We ... have had to contend with an onslaught of what we call 'Pretendians', that is, non-Indigenous people assuming a Native identity. DNA tests are setting up other problems involving those who discover Native DNA in their bloodline. When individuals assert themselves as Native when they are not culturally Indigenous, and if they do not understand their tribal nation's history or participate in their tribal nation's society, who benefits? Not the people or communities of the identity being claimed. It is hard to see this as anything other than an individual's capitalist claim, just another version of a colonial offense."

Related Terminology

Expanding the Lexicon

The discourse surrounding Indigenous identity fraud has generated related terms that further define specific nuances of these claims and reactions:

Defendian: An individual who actively defends those accused of being pretendians.
Karendian: A person who critically calls out or challenges individuals suspected of pretendianism.
Descendian: Refers to individuals with distant, trace Indigenous ancestry who may not be affiliated with or recognized by the Indigenous nation(s) with which they claim a connection. This term distinguishes them from those actively perpetuating fraud.

The "Alleged Pretendians List"

Genesis and Methodology

In January 2021, Navajo journalist Jacqueline Keeler initiated an investigation into settler self-Indigenization within academic circles. Collaborating with individuals in tribal enrollment departments, genealogists, and historians, Keeler researched public figures who had long been subjects of discussion within tribal communities regarding their claims to Indigenous identity. The research involved examining community connections and tracing family histories, sometimes back to the 17th century, to verify ancestral ties and tribal affiliations. This effort culminated in the self-publication of the "Alleged Pretendians List," a Google spreadsheet documenting approximately 200 public figures in academia and entertainment.

Support and Validation

While some, like artist Nadema Agard, have criticized Keeler's list as a "witch hunt," Native leaders interviewed by Voice of America, including Chief Ben Barnes of the Shawnee Tribe, have expressed strong support for Keeler's work within Indigenous circles. Academic Dina Gilio-Whitaker reviewed Keeler's documentation concerning Sacheen Littlefeather and found the research methodology to be sound.

Keeler's Clarification

Keeler has emphasized that the "Alleged Pretendians List" is not intended to target private citizens or casual "wannabes." Instead, it focuses on public figures who allegedly monetize or profit from their claims to tribal identity and who purport to speak on behalf of Indigenous tribes. She views the list as a product of decades of accountability efforts by Indigenous peoples.

TallBear's Analysis

Academic Kim TallBear has noted that the list highlights how the financial beneficiaries of pretendianism are predominantly white individuals, linking these false claims to white supremacy and Indigenous erasure. TallBear distinguishes these individuals from descendants who may be disconnected due to historical trauma or government programs (like the Sixties Scoop) but maintain genuine heritage and seek reconnection.

Debate and Controversy

Criticisms of the List

Skeptics of the "Alleged Pretendians List" have questioned its reliability, methodology, and Keeler's motivations. A statement released via Last Real Indians accused Keeler of exploiting the issue of Indigenous fraud for personal gain and weaponizing "lateral violence, colonial trauma, and colonial recognition" against individuals with whom she had disputes. Signatories argued Keeler positioned herself as a "self-appointed arbiter of Indian identity" and urged respect for tribal autonomy in determining citizenship.

Methodological Concerns

Lakota journalist Alexandra Watson stated her article was used as a reference on the list without her consent, questioning its methodology and utility. Angelina Newsom, a Northern Cheyenne journalist, criticized Keeler's research, particularly concerning the inclusion of verified tribal members like Ben Nighthorse Campbell and the alleged use of Ancestry.com records. Newsom raised concerns about privacy implications for relatives and argued that tribal nations, not individuals, should lead investigations into citizenship claims, asserting that Keeler's approach was not "safe for Indian Country."

Consent and Endorsement: Alexandra Watson noted her work was used without permission, questioning the list's endorsement.
Verification and Privacy: Angelina Newsom highlighted concerns about Keeler's research methods, including reliance on commercial genealogy sites and potential privacy violations for listed relatives.
Tribal Authority: Newsom argued that the authority to investigate and determine Indigenous identity rests with the tribes themselves, not external researchers.

Upholding Tribal Sovereignty

The debate underscores the critical importance of tribal sovereignty in matters of identity and membership. Critics argue that external lists and investigations, even if well-intentioned, can usurp the inherent right of Indigenous nations to define their own people and communities, potentially causing harm and division within "Indian Country."

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Pretendian Wikipedia page

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Educational Context and Limitations

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not encompass the full complexity or nuance of the subject matter. It is not exhaustive and may not be entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here does not constitute legal, cultural, or identity-related advice. It is crucial to consult with recognized Indigenous community leaders, tribal governance bodies, and relevant academic experts for accurate and authoritative information regarding Indigenous identity, sovereignty, and related issues. Reliance on this AI-generated content for critical decisions or understanding is strongly discouraged.

The creators of this page assume no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein. The complexities of Indigenous identity are deeply rooted in community, history, and self-determination, which cannot be fully captured in this format.

Unmasking the Pretendian

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Definition ❓

🗣️ The Term "Pretendian"

⚖️ Context and Scope

🛡️ Impact on Communities

Context and Impact 🌍

🎭 Stereotypes and Representation

🗣️ Academic Perspectives

💰 Colonial Offense

Related Terminology 📚

💬 Expanding the Lexicon

The "Alleged Pretendians List" 📜

🔍 Genesis and Methodology

🤝 Support and Validation

🎯 Keeler's Clarification

💡 TallBear's Analysis

Debate and Controversy 🗣️

⚔️ Criticisms of the List

❓ Methodological Concerns

🏛️ Upholding Tribal Sovereignty

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Educational Context and Limitations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Definition

The Term "Pretendian"

Context and Scope

Impact on Communities

Context and Impact

Stereotypes and Representation

Academic Perspectives

Colonial Offense

Related Terminology

Expanding the Lexicon

The "Alleged Pretendians List"

Genesis and Methodology

Support and Validation

Keeler's Clarification

TallBear's Analysis

Debate and Controversy

Criticisms of the List

Methodological Concerns

Upholding Tribal Sovereignty

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Educational Context and Limitations