California Teacher Suspended After Viral Video Mocking Native Americans

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A teacher from California has been placed on leave following a disturbing incident where she ridiculed Native American culture during a math lesson, which was captured on video and went viral.

If you remember learning about trigonometry in high school, the mnemonic SOHCAHTOA could bring back some memories. However, for students in a particular California school district, this term will now evoke a very different reaction after a teacher, seemingly lacking awareness, decided to impersonate Native American culture in her classroom.

The shocking display was recorded by a Native American student who felt hurt and bewildered by the teacher’s actions. In the video, the unidentified educator is seen wearing a feather headdress and pretending to wield imaginary tomahawks while dancing and chanting for her students. Behind her on the whiteboard, there was a drawing of a stick figure in a headdress alongside two teepees, showcasing her misguided attempt at humor.

The student shared the footage with a family friend, Jamie Lee, who posted it on social media, urging others to contact the school district to address the incident. “After watching the full video, I was left shaken,” Lee stated. She emphasized that the video was a glimpse into the daily struggles Native children face in schools across the U.S. “This is not an isolated incident,” she remarked.

Lee highlighted that there is no justification for such behavior. “We are often viewed as an afterthought, a mere mascot, or less than human,” she told a news outlet. “It’s time for change.” The school district responded to the viral video by announcing that the teacher would be suspended. They described her behavior as “completely unacceptable” and “offensive,” noting that it does not align with the district’s values. They also committed to a further investigation.

While some may rush to defend the teacher, claiming her actions were innocent or unintentional, it’s crucial to recognize that this is not a new issue. Discussions about cultural appropriation arise every year, particularly around Halloween.

As a reminder, cultures should not be treated as costumes. Wearing a headdress and feathers to portray a Native American is not just insensitive; it disregards the historical trauma that Indigenous peoples have endured. “Every year, we hear stories of Native students being bullied and their cultural identities disrespected,” Lee added.

The student who filmed the incident wishes to remain anonymous for safety reasons but is reportedly coping well. His family encourages others to refrain from directing anger at the teacher, expressing concern for her well-being. Instead, they advocate for an opportunity to learn more about Native American history and culture, especially as another holiday with problematic origins approaches.

“This reality is common for Native people in the U.S., and we refuse to remain silent any longer,” Lee stated. “We’re standing up for our children and demanding a change in how Native peoples are treated.”

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