Controversy Surrounding Michigan’s Native American Boarding School Report
Concerns have been raised by tribal members regarding a recent report detailing abuses at Native American boarding schools in Michigan. Despite highlighting severe historical issues, the report is criticized for being “flawed,” according to testimony before state lawmakers on Thursday.
The comprehensive report, spanning 300 pages, uncovers a troubling history of physical and sexual abuse faced by Native American children at these schools, with incidents reported as recently as the 1980s. Jo Ann Kauffman, who heads Kauffman and Associates—the firm tasked with conducting interviews and examining the schools’ history—outlined six key findings:
- More than 30 boarding schools and associated institutions existed in Michigan.
- Many children were forced to attend, with families often subjected to coercion.
- The system was perpetuated by federal, state, and local governments, alongside church and local organizations.
- Identity erasure was frequently practiced.
- Pervasive physical, emotional, and sexual abuse was reported.
- Mental health and other issues continue to affect victims today.
While the report was finalized last year, only a redacted summary has been officially released by the state. State officials expressed dissatisfaction with the final document, citing concerns that the data collection process may have risked the privacy of participants.
During the hearing, Winnay Wemigwase, tribal chair of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians and a former attendee of a Native American boarding school, criticized the report’s consistency. “I feel it’s flawed because it’s incomplete,” Wemigwase stated, emphasizing that it fails to fully capture the impact of the boarding school system in Michigan.
Tribal leaders are advocating for more thorough investigations and additional resources to support those affected by the boarding school system. Kauffman attributed some investigation issues to directives from the Michigan Attorney General’s office, which she claimed narrowed the study’s scope significantly.
The Michigan attorney general’s office, however, defended its involvement. A spokesperson accused the Republican chair of the House General Government subcommittee, which organized the hearing, of using survivors to discredit the attorney general’s office. The spokesperson clarified, “The Department’s only role in this report was that as legal counsel to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.” They further noted that the department has initiated its own investigation into the abuses at the boarding schools.
For those wishing to provide information anonymously, tips can be submitted by calling 517-897-7391 or emailing AG-NBSInvestigation@michigan.gov.
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