A Vision of Education : An exploration of Menominee Educators' Perceptions of Menominee Education

Abstract

The Menominee Nation is one of the few tribes to remain on their ancestral lands and maintain a living language. Through an onslaught of aggressive federal policies of annihilation, assimilation and self-determination, Menominees emerge today a proactive group once again in control of their lives. Recognizing this right, they are restructuring their educational ideology to reflect their traditional values. Through the use of fantasy theme analysis, this study explores the meaning of education as perceived by Menominee people involved in the redirection and implementation of their educational system. Empowered to change the lives of a nation, their rhetorical vision is to resurrect the self-esteem of its people, and ultimately, the dignity of their ancient heritage through an educational system that recognizes the values inherent in its traditional culture, and the technological advancements of the global community.