Wednesday Wisdom: Oyate, a Resource for Native American YAL

November is Native American month, so today's wisdom comes from the Native organization Oyate. Oyate, meaning "people" in Dakota, is an organization that values children and values stories. According to their website,

Oyate is a Native organization working to see that our lives and histories are portrayed with honesty and integrity, and that all people know that our stories belong to us. For Indian children growing up in the 21st century, it is as important as ever for them to know who they are and learn about the histories that they come from. For all children, it is time to know and acknowledge the truths of history. Only then will they come to have the understanding and respect for each other that now, more than ever, will be necessary for life to continue.

Their website is an invaluable source for educators, providing resources to incorporate Native American literature with integrity in classrooms. These resources include book reviews, workshop offerings, and helpful information to help honor Native American histories and stories.

One helpful resource is criteria to assess whether or not a book has anti-Indian bias. Find those helpful questions here.

This month's theme in the discussion board (find the link in the top right of the blog's home page) is ways to celebrate Native American month. Stop by and read and share in this conversation!