METCIR - Mathias El Tribe's Commitment to Indigenous Peoples Rights

Guided by the spirit for the voice of our ancestors, and through the Mathias El Tribe, we delve into the critical analysis of assimilation and its profound impact on indigenous rights, specifically through the lens of birthright citizenship and such "personhood identity". Throughout history, indigenous American Indian peoples have endured displacement and mistreatment, characterized by policies aimed at assimilation and cultural suppression.

Section 1: Historical Context Colonial expansion and government policies drove the forced removal of indigenous American Indian peoples from their private property and ancestral lands, disrupting traditional ways of life. Assimilationist policies, such as the Indian Removal Act and the establishment of residential schools, sought to eradicate indigenous cultures and replace them with Eurocentric values.

Section 2: Assimilation and Birthright Citizenship Assimilationist agendas were reinforced through the concept of birthright citizenship, which conferred U.S. citizenship based on territorial birth rather than indigenous identity. Since the inception of this birthright citizenship or extension of right to soil, the American Negro, formerly recognized as the indigenous American Indian, has only experienced the loss of rights, culture, and heritage while enduring increased restrictions on autonomy and sovereignty. The American Negro was coerced into accepting U.S. citizenship, erasing their identity as indigenous peoples and disregarding the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood).

Section 3: Distortion of Indigenous Identity The emphasis on birthright citizenship perpetuated the myth of assimilation and reinforced the marginalization of indigenous identities. Indigenous American Indian peoples were pressured to abandon their cultural heritage and adopt Western norms, leading to the suppression of indigenous languages, traditions, and customs. This distortion of identity undermined indigenous sovereignty and perpetuated systemic inequality.

Section 4: Reclaiming Indigenous Rights Initiatives like Mathias El Tribe’s Commitment to Indigenous Rights (METCIR) represent a critical step towards reclaiming indigenous rights and challenging the legacy of assimilation. By reaffirming the principles of jus sanguinis and indigenous sovereignty, METCIR seeks to empower indigenous American Indian communities and promote self-determination.

Section 5: Distinction Between Alaskan Natives and American Indians. The distinction between Alaskan Natives and American Indians underscores the complex tapestry of indigenous identities and migrations in North America. While Alaskan Natives trace their origins to Siberia, with unique ties to their ancestral homelands, American Indians are the aboriginal inhabitants of North America, with diverse tribal nations maintaining distinct languages, cultures, and traditions. Recognizing and addressing these distinct heritages is crucial in acknowledging and rectifying the injustices perpetuated against indigenous peoples. In conclusion, I advocate for comprehensive legal and policy reforms to address systemic inequalities and uphold the rights of indigenous peoples. The urgent need for such reforms cannot be understated, and initiatives like METCIR provide a pathway to reclaiming indigenous sovereignty and challenging systemic inequality. Together, we must strive to protect and preserve our identities, cultures, and rights for present and future generations.