intergenerational trauma mary annette pember

Intergenerational Trauma: The Unseen Barrier to Native American Journalistic Freedom

Mary Annette Pember's story is a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by Native American journalists in their pursuit of truth and justice. As an editor of the Sho-Ban News on the Fort Hall Reservation in Idaho, she has seen firsthand the challenges that come with reporting the news in Indian Country. Her recent firing from the newspaper serves as a stark example of the dangers posed to journalistic freedom when tribal governments exert control over the media.

The Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968 guarantees tribal citizens a free press immune from government influence, but this protection is often ignored in practice. Tribal governments' control of media's purse strings acts as a potent deterrent to journalists looking to report the truth. For instance, Lori Edmo-Suppah, past president of the Native American Journalists Association (NAJA), was fired for publishing letters to the editor that disagreed with tribal council members.

This is not an isolated incident. Many Native American journalists have faced similar challenges, including being fired or silenced for reporting on issues that are critical of tribal governments or officials. The lack of transparency and accountability in tribal governance creates a culture of fear among journalists, making it difficult for them to report on important stories without fearing retribution.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that tribes are sovereign nations, immune from judicial proceedings without their consent or Congressional waiver. This means that there is little recourse for journalists if they are denied access to public information or face retaliation for reporting on sensitive topics.

As Mary Annette Pember's story illustrates, the struggle for journalistic freedom in Indian Country is not just about individual freedoms but also about the well-being of entire communities. When tribal governments exert control over the media, it can lead to a lack of accountability and transparency, perpetuating intergenerational trauma and further eroding trust between tribal governments and their citizens.

The solution lies in enacting open records laws and/or laws guaranteeing freedom of the press within tribes. However, even when such laws are in place, there is no guarantee that they will be enforced. The situation is complex, and a multifaceted approach is needed to address the challenges faced by Native American journalists.

Ultimately, the struggle for journalistic freedom in Indian Country is a fight for the very fabric of our democracy. It requires a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of free speech. As we move forward, it is essential that we recognize the importance of this struggle and work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.

Intergenerational trauma mary annette pember