Dear NDN Readers, Relations, and Allies,
ʔi čəxʷ, ʔəsčal čəxʷ Hello, How are you?
We are excited to announce the launch of United Indians’ new quarterly book Cclub – The Sacred Circle Book Club – a space where our stories will be heard, our voices amplified, and our communities brought together through the power of Indigenous literature.
You might ask, “Why another book club?” Because our stories matter. Because every time we gather to share in the words of Native authors, we strengthen the bonds between our people and create bridges of understanding with our allies. The Sacred Circle Book Club will be more than just reading – it will be a celebration of contemporary Native voices, a journey through our histories, and a platform for the storytellers who are shaping our future.
Our mission is to:
- * Build community through meaningful discussions of contemporary Native authors
- * Share our rich history and cultural perspectives with both Native and non-Native readers
- * Create space for deeper understanding of Indigenous experiences and expressions
- * Spotlight emerging Native authors who deserve to be heard
- * Foster a love for reading, with special emphasis on Indigenous voices and perspectives
We’re thrilled to begin this journey together in the Fall of 2024. Our first gathering will feature not just discussion, but an intimate conversation with the author themselves. While we’re still finalizing the date for our first meeting, we already have our first book selected and waiting for you.
What Side Are You On?: A Tohono O’Odham Life Across Borders
by Michael Steven Wilson and José Antonio Lucero
Univ. of North Carolina, $24.95 trade paper (216p) ISBN 978-1-4696-7558-9
Renowned human rights activist Michael “Mike” Wilson has borne witness to the profound human costs of poverty, racism, border policing, and the legacies of colonialism. From a childhood in the mining town of Ajo, Arizona, Wilson’s life journey led him to US military service in Central America, seminary education, and religious and human rights activism against the abuses of US immigration policies. With increased militarization of the US-Mexico border, migration across the Tohono O’odham Nation surged, as did migrant deaths and violent encounters between tribal citizens and US Border Patrol agents. When Wilson’s religious and ethical commitments led him to set up water stations for migrants on the Nation’s lands, it brought him into conflict not only with the US government but also with his own tribal and religious communities.
This richly textured and collaboratively written memoir brings Wilson’s experiences to life. Joining Wilson as coauthor, Jose Antonio Lucero adds political and historical context to Wilson’s personal narrative. Together they offer a highly original portrait of an O’odham life across borders that sheds light on the struggles and resilience of Native peoples across the Americas.
Stay tuned for more details about our first selection and meeting date. This is your invitation to be part of something special – a community of readers celebrating Indigenous literature together.
In solidarity and community…
həliʔil čəł! Gunalchéesh! Miisha neewe! Ahéhee’! Quyana! Hay Hay! Miigwetch! (Thank you),
United Indians Book Club