Symbolicity Among Native Americans.

TL;DRAbstract

The widespread acceptance of cultural pluralism is reflected throughout the educational system of our country. This emphasis is manifest diversely, appearing as fully developed ethnic studies curricula at the university level or more modestly as special ethnic appreciation units in courses at any level. As students and scholars of intercultural communication behavior, we applaud this emphasis and the increasing awareness of the rich cultural diversity of our country. However, we are equally aware of innumerable pitfalls which confront minority groups as they attempt to convert this popular sentiment into long-term benefits within the broader, more domi nant culture. Unless we carefully address these potential problems, as educators we may unwittingly foster counterproductive developments. The use and misuse of identifying symbols among one cultural minority may help us better understand how prominent symbols of ethnicity may actually create confusion and division within a minority. The

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