“Let My People Go.” Carlos Montezuma and the Pursuit to Abolish the Bureau of Indian Affairs
Carlos Montezuma, also known as Wassaja, emerged as a significant figure in the early 20th century, fervently advocating for Native American rights. Born into the Yavapai tribe in Arizona, his trajectory shifted dramatically after being captured by Pima Indians and sold to an Italian-American photographer. Overcoming these adversities, he became a physician and a staunch advocate for Native American rights.
A cornerstone of Montezuma’s advocacy was his campaign against the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Founded in 1824, the BIA was tasked with overseeing the administration and management of vast tracts of land held in trust by the U.S. for American Indians, Indian tribes, and Alaska Natives. Montezuma contended that the Bureau wielded undue control over Native American affairs, a sentiment echoed in academic circles.
Montezuma expressed his views on the BIA: “The Indian Bureau system is wrong. The only way to adjust wrong is to abolish it, and the only reform is to let my people go. After freeing the Indian from the shackles of Government supervision, what is the Indian going to do?” This perspective, sourced from his address, underscores the depth of his conviction.
Montezuma’s resistance to the BIA stemmed from his belief that Native Americans should have the autonomy to oversee their affairs, lands, and resources. Beyond his BIA campaign, Montezuma was instrumental in establishing the Society of American Indians in 1911. This pioneering organization sought to foster unity among Native Americans and address the multifaceted challenges they confronted.
________
Join Our Membership - Free!
________In light of recent revelations with the Boarding School atrocities, it prompts us to reflect and revisit Montezuma’s advocacy.
Montana resolution calls for day of remembrance for Indian boarding school victims.
You might have heard there are voices today calling for the closure of various federal agencies. Should the BIA be one of them? As we look back on the legacy of advocates like Montezuma, we must ask ourselves how we can best honor their vision and ensure the safety and autonomy of tribal citizens and Indigenous communities today.
