1. American Indians We did not inherit the Earth from our ancestors. We are borrowing it from our children. Chief Seattle

2. Stereotypes & Myths 1. American Indian cultures are vanishing relics of the past 2. Sports-team mascots & logos honor American Indians’ place in history 3. Indian theme programs pay homage to American Indian traditions 4. American Indians are lazy and won’t work 5. My American Indian coworker is an expert on Indian lore

3. Past Connections The American Indian existed 20,000 – 30,000 years ago Architecture unexcelled, accurate calendar, used zero in mathematics before the Arabs In the tribal structure, authority rested in a group rather than an individual Superior medical system

4. Current Profile 1.5 percent of American population Young population and growing 60% under 19 / Median age 28 558 active tribes Cherokee and Navajo most populous 45 % reservations / 55% in urban areas California, Oklahoma & Arizona Greatest concentration in Four Corners area- Arizona, Colorado, N. Mexico & Utah

5. Demographic Problems Poverty rate is 26% 50 – 75% on some reservations Casino Gambling Fewer than 5% of tribes receive significant casino revenues Health Problems/Life Expectancy 578% alcoholism 475% tuberculosis 231% diabetes Life Expectancy - Rivals 3 rd World Countries

6. Indian Worldview 1.Holistic View  All things in the world are connected 2.Cooperative Harmony with Nature  Indian spirituality demands respect for the natural world 3.Time is Cyclical  Nature’s cycles & processes

7. American Indian Values People are basically good Group first: while respecting individual views Personal relationships: Sharing & Helping Self-Expression Mode: Doing Long Range Planning

8. Leadership Challenges Move beyond stereotypes Avoid giving “undue” praise If undeserved, praise may be perceived as an insult Express respect & confer dignity Giving dignity encourages individuals to deserve the praise they receive

9. Leadership Opportunities Understanding Environmentalism and Sustainable practices Maintaining Life-Long Relationships A “Doing” Orientation Leadership Approach