The great vanishing act

By Kathleen Ratteree, Norbert S. Hill

Subjects: Tribal citizenship, Indians of North America -- Ethnic identity, Blood quantum (United States law), Indians of North America -- Tribal citizenship, Ethnic identity, Indians of North America, Social aspects, Blood quantum (United States law) -- Social aspects

Description: "A person's blood quantum is defined as the percentage of their ancestors who are documented as full-blood Native Americans. The US federal government uses a blood quantum minimum as a measure of "Indian" identity to manage tribal enrollments and access to cultural and social services. Evidence suggests that if current demographic trends continue, within a few generations tribes will legally disappear. Through essays, personal stories, case studies, satire, and poetry, a lauded collection of international contributors will explore blood quantum as biology and as cultural metaphor. Featuring diverse and talented Native voices representing different generations, backgrounds, and literary styles, The Great Vanishing Act, addresses the most critical issue facing Native Americans and all indigenous populations in the 21st century and hopes to redefine the meaning of cultural citizenship"--