Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) Overview
The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 (IRA), passed by Franklin Delano Roosevelt, gave the Native American tribes reservations, which had been taken by the United States of America in the 1800's. Reservations give Native Americans a piece of land where they can practice religion, teach their own education, and follow their traditional customs undisturbed by outside society.
Still Going Strong After 78 Years
Every 25 years, the government and the Native Americans meet up to discuss whether or not this act should be put to rest or shall be continued to have effect. According to the Huffington Post, barely anything was said at this meeting in 2009, the 75th year of the act being passed. Taxes from the American people's money go to fund for the education and preservation of these reservations. Some people are unhappy about this program because the Native Americans who refuse to interact with society and promote the economy are getting funded by people whose hard-earned money they feel should be going to something to help an active member of society. On the flip-side, preserving the culture of the people who were here before Europeans arrived is very important to honor so later generations will always remember them.
But Not All Agree
Some tribes disagree with outer society and renounce all help from the government, no matter how much help is needed. They believe that America belongs to them. They have sometimes posted signs that warn people not to enter their territory. They are offended at the sense of pity we tend to show them by treating them as they dumber and less informed group. I think we need to learn that their culture and knowledge is just as important as ours.