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From Discomfort to Action: A Guide to Supporting Indigenous Sovereignty for Settlers
As we navigate the tumultuous landscape of early 2025, many Americans are saying they are "ashamed" of their national identity. The alarming (for some) rhetoric surrounding policy changes and the continued failures of administrations to address systemic injustices have intensified this discomfort. However, for many, this shame is not rooted in a deep understanding of the United States as a settler colonial state. Instead, it often stems from disillusionment with the ideals of “freedom,” “democracy,” and “justice” that they were taught to believe define America.
This shame, while natural, often becomes self-indulgent, centering settler feelings rather than seeking the most fundamental form of justice: restoring Indigenous sovereignty. To this end, let's explore how to move from this self-centered shame into meaningful action.
Understanding Settler Colonialism and American Identity Myths
To truly address settler shame and transform it into action, we must first confront the myths that underpin American identity. Narratives like manifest destiny, rugged individualism, and American exceptionalism are not just harmless stories — they form the foundation of settler colonialism, an ongoing system that continues to…
