Understanding Native American Reservations: Time Spent and Life Expectancy

The lifespan and living conditions of Native Americans vary significantly, particularly considering the environment of their reservations. This article explores the duration of time Native Americans typically spend in their reservations and juxtaposes it with their life expectancy, which is notably lower compared to other racial and ethnic groups in the United States.

Duration of Time Spent in Reservations

Native American reservations have been home to many families for generations, with some individuals staying there for over two decades. As noted in the experiences of those who stayed for long periods, staying in the reservation can offer a stable environment. However, for individuals who experienced abuse at the hands of their parents, the situation can be drastically different. In such cases, people would leave the reservation as soon as they were able to, or they may be placed in foster care before reaching the age of 16, as mandated by child welfare laws.

The decision to leave or stay in the reservation is often based on personal circumstances, familial support, and the availability of opportunities outside the reservation. For example, individuals may choose to attend high school, college, or work outside the reservation, leading to a shorter stay. In some cases, families may leave for extended periods or even permanently, seeking better living conditions, education, or career opportunities.

Life Expectancy of Native Americans

One of the most striking statistics when discussing Native American reservations is the life expectancy. According to recent data, Native Americans have a life expectancy of 65.2 years, making them the group with the lowest life expectancy among racial and ethnic groups in the United States. This is in stark contrast to other groups, such as Hispanics (82 years), whites (78.8 years), and African Americans (74.8 years).

Several factors contribute to this lower life expectancy, including poverty, healthcare access, and historical trauma. Reservations often suffer from limited healthcare resources, thereby affecting access and quality of care. Furthermore, economic hardship and social determinants of health, such as living conditions, education, and employment, play significant roles in this disparity.

Freedom of Movement Within Tribes

It is important to note that Native Americans are American citizens and are afforded the same rights as other citizens. They have the freedom to come and go as they please, without requiring a visa or border crossing. The concept of reservations does not impair this freedom; rather, it is a designation by the U.S. government.

The reality of reservation life can vary widely. In smaller reservations with limited job opportunities, people often reside on the reservation for the majority of their life. For example, the Onondaga reservation, where the author grew up, is relatively small, and many of its residents have jobs off the reservation, leading to a daily commute. On larger reservations, such as the Navajo, individuals may choose to stay for various lengths of time, ranging from short to long periods, based on personal choice, employment, and lifestyle preferences.

The freedom to live off the reservation or to move in and out of it is a fundamental right that reflects the complex interplay of cultural identity and modern American citizenship.

Conclusion

The average length of time Native Americans stay in their reservations and their life expectancy are both influenced by a complex web of factors. Understanding these nuances can help shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by Native American communities and the importance of addressing the gaps in healthcare, economic opportunities, and social services to improve these outcomes.