Massachusetts Native Peoples and the Social Contract: A Reassessment for Our Times

2017

This project consisted of four panel discussions/listening sessions across the state, focusing on the status of the social contract between Native Peoples residing in Massachusetts and the state. These discussions were framed by the last statewide assessment of Native Peoples, the nineteenth century Earle Report and the subsequent Enfranchisement and Allotment Act, and contemporary human rights law related to indigenous peoples, specifically the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. At the conclusion of these sessions, Massachusetts Native Peoples and the general public have a greater awareness of the not just the contemporary status of Native Peoples in the Commonwealth, but various state policy actions that led to the current status. As a result of this, an examination of possible policy and other action is being discussed to improve current conditions and relationships with the state.

Massachusetts Native Peoples

Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training

Other - Cultural Diversity

Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public

Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Geographic Areas, Reservation, Urban

State

N/A