In her article “Understanding the Power of Whereas: A Summary,” Layli Long Soldier explores the significance of the word “whereas” in government documents and its impact on Native American communities. She discusses the history of the use of “whereas” in treaties and legislation, and how it has been used to erase the sovereignty and rights of Indigenous peoples. Soldier also examines the power of language and the importance of understanding its implications.
Background Information
Layli Long Soldier is a poet, writer, and artist of Oglala Lakota descent. She was born in 1979 in South Dakota and grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. She received her BFA in creative writing from the Institute of American Indian Arts and her MFA from Bard College. Her work has been published in various literary journals and anthologies, and she has received numerous awards and fellowships for her writing. In 2017, she published her first book of poetry, “Whereas,” which explores the complexities of Native American identity, history, and language. The book was a finalist for the National Book Award and won the National Book Critics Circle Award for Poetry. In this article, we will provide a summary of “Whereas” and explore the power of the word “whereas” in Native American history and politics.
What is Whereas?
Whereas is a powerful word that has been used in legal and political documents for centuries. It is often used to introduce a statement of fact or a resolution, and it can have significant implications for the people affected by it. In her book, “Whereas,” Layli Long Soldier explores the power of this word and its impact on Native American communities. She argues that whereas clauses have been used to justify the oppression and marginalization of Native Americans, and that they continue to be used in this way today. By examining the language of whereas clauses and the ways in which they have been used, Long Soldier sheds light on the ongoing struggle for Native American rights and sovereignty.
Overview of Layli Long Soldier’s Summary
Layli Long Soldier’s “Whereas” is a powerful and thought-provoking collection of poems that explores the complexities of Native American identity and the impact of historical trauma on contemporary Indigenous communities. The collection is structured around the language of the “whereas” clause, a legal term used in treaties and other official documents to establish the terms of an agreement. Through her use of this language, Long Soldier interrogates the ways in which Native Americans have been silenced and erased by the dominant culture, and challenges readers to consider the ongoing legacy of colonialism and its effects on Indigenous peoples. With its lyrical and evocative language, “Whereas” is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of poetry, politics, and social justice.
History of Whereas
The use of the word “whereas” in legal and political documents dates back to the 14th century. It was originally used to introduce a statement of fact or a preamble before the main body of the document. In the United States, the use of “whereas” can be traced back to the Declaration of Independence, where it was used to introduce the grievances against the British monarchy. Since then, “whereas” has been used in various legal and political documents, including treaties, resolutions, and proclamations. Its use has evolved to serve as a way to acknowledge and recognize certain facts or circumstances before making a decision or taking action. In Layli Long Soldier’s book “Whereas,” she explores the power and limitations of this word in the context of Native American history and the United States government’s relationship with Indigenous peoples.
Importance of Whereas
Whereas is a powerful word that has been used in legal and political documents for centuries. It is a word that acknowledges the existence of a problem or issue, and sets the stage for action to be taken. In Layli Long Soldier’s book, “Whereas,” she explores the importance of this word and how it has been used in the context of Native American history and politics.
One of the key points that Long Soldier makes is that whereas is not just a word, but a tool for communication and negotiation. When used in legal documents, it can be a way to acknowledge the rights and sovereignty of Native American tribes, and to establish a framework for working together. However, she also notes that whereas can be used in a way that is disingenuous or manipulative, and that it is important to be aware of the context in which it is being used.
Overall, Long Soldier’s book is a powerful reminder of the importance of language and the ways in which it can be used to shape our understanding of the world. By exploring the history and politics of whereas, she sheds light on the complex relationship between Native American tribes and the US government, and offers insights into how we can work towards a more just and equitable future.
Language and Rhetoric in Whereas
In her book, Whereas, Layli Long Soldier explores the power of language and rhetoric in shaping our understanding of history and identity. Through her use of poetic language and rhetorical devices, she challenges the dominant narratives that have been used to justify the oppression of Native Americans.
One of the most striking aspects of Long Soldier’s writing is her use of repetition. Throughout the book, she repeats certain phrases and words, such as “whereas” and “be it resolved.” These repetitions serve to highlight the ways in which language has been used to marginalize Native Americans, as well as to draw attention to the power of language to shape our understanding of the world around us.
Long Soldier also makes use of irony and sarcasm to critique the language of government documents and official statements. For example, in the poem “38,” she uses the language of a government apology to highlight the absurdity of such apologies when they are not accompanied by meaningful action.
Overall, Long Soldier’s use of language and rhetoric in Whereas serves to challenge the dominant narratives that have been used to justify the oppression of Native Americans. By drawing attention to the power of language to shape our understanding of history and identity, she invites readers to question the ways in which language is used to perpetuate injustice and to imagine new possibilities for a more just and equitable future.
Analysis of Specific Passages in Whereas
One of the most striking passages in Layli Long Soldier’s Whereas is the section where she addresses the use of the word “whereas” in the United States government’s apology to Native Americans. She writes, “Whereas is a word we begin with. It doesn’t mean anything happened. It means something will. It means something is about to happen.” This passage highlights the power dynamics at play in the language used by those in positions of authority. The use of “whereas” in the apology serves to distance the government from the atrocities committed against Native Americans, framing them as events of the past rather than ongoing injustices. By drawing attention to the significance of this word, Long Soldier challenges readers to consider the ways in which language can be used to obscure or manipulate the truth.
Impact of Whereas on Indigenous Communities
The impact of Whereas on Indigenous communities cannot be overstated. The use of this word in official government documents has been a source of frustration and anger for many Indigenous people. Layli Long Soldier’s book, “Whereas,” explores the power dynamics at play when this word is used and the harm it can cause. Indigenous people have long been subjected to the language of colonization, and the use of Whereas is just one example of this. It is a reminder of the ongoing erasure of Indigenous voices and the lack of respect for their sovereignty. The impact of Whereas on Indigenous communities is not just linguistic, but also political and cultural. It reinforces the power imbalance between Indigenous people and the government and perpetuates the idea that Indigenous people are inferior and in need of guidance. Understanding the impact of Whereas is crucial for non-Indigenous people to begin to understand the ongoing harm caused by colonialism and to work towards reconciliation.
Response to Criticisms of Whereas
In response to criticisms of her book, “Whereas,” Layli Long Soldier has defended her use of language and form as intentional and necessary for conveying the complexities of Native American experiences. She has also addressed concerns about the inclusion of government documents and the use of “we” in her writing, explaining that these choices were made to highlight the ways in which Native Americans are often spoken for and about, rather than being allowed to speak for themselves. Overall, Long Soldier’s responses to criticisms demonstrate her commitment to challenging dominant narratives and centering the voices of Native Americans in her work.
Comparisons to Other Indigenous Literature
In comparison to other indigenous literature, Layli Long Soldier’s “Whereas” stands out for its unique blend of poetry and political commentary. While many indigenous writers focus on the preservation of cultural traditions and the struggles of their communities, Long Soldier takes a more direct approach to addressing the injustices faced by Native Americans in the United States. Her use of language is also notable, as she incorporates both English and Lakota phrases to create a sense of hybridity and cultural complexity. Overall, “Whereas” offers a fresh perspective on indigenous literature and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition.
Implications for Future Indigenous Writing
Long Soldier’s work in “Whereas” has significant implications for future Indigenous writing. By exploring the power dynamics inherent in language and the ways in which it has been used to oppress Indigenous peoples, Long Soldier offers a model for how writers can use language to resist and subvert these structures of power. Her work also highlights the importance of centering Indigenous voices and experiences in literature, and of challenging the dominant narratives that have historically erased or misrepresented Indigenous peoples. As Indigenous writers continue to navigate the complexities of language and representation, Long Soldier’s work serves as a powerful example of how to use writing as a tool for resistance and reclamation.
Role of Whereas in Contemporary Society
Whereas is a word that is often used in legal and political documents, but its role in contemporary society goes beyond just those contexts. Layli Long Soldier’s essay “Understanding the Power of Whereas” explores the significance of this word and how it has been used to marginalize Indigenous peoples in the United States. She argues that whereas is a tool of erasure, used to acknowledge the existence of Indigenous peoples and their histories while simultaneously denying their sovereignty and agency. By examining the language of official documents, Long Soldier shows how whereas has been used to perpetuate a narrative of settler colonialism and to maintain the status quo of power relations. However, she also suggests that whereas can be reclaimed and reimagined as a tool for resistance and decolonization. By using whereas to assert their own narratives and demands, Indigenous peoples can challenge the dominant discourse and assert their own sovereignty. Overall, Long Soldier’s essay highlights the importance of language and the ways in which it can be used to shape our understanding of the world and our place in it.
Relevance of Whereas to Non-Indigenous Readers
For non-Indigenous readers, the relevance of Whereas lies in its ability to shed light on the ongoing struggles and injustices faced by Indigenous communities. The use of Whereas statements in government documents and resolutions has historically been a tool for erasing the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous peoples. By examining the language and structure of these statements, Layli Long Soldier exposes the ways in which they perpetuate colonialism and undermine Indigenous sovereignty.
Furthermore, Whereas serves as a call to action for non-Indigenous readers to educate themselves on the history and current realities of Indigenous peoples. It challenges readers to recognize their own complicity in systems of oppression and to actively work towards dismantling them. Through her powerful and poignant poetry, Long Soldier invites readers to engage in a deeper understanding of the complexities of Indigenous experiences and to join in the fight for justice and equity.
Discussion of Layli Long Soldier’s Writing Style
Layli Long Soldier’s writing style is characterized by its precision and attention to detail. She carefully chooses her words and structures her sentences in a way that conveys both meaning and emotion. Her use of repetition and parallelism creates a sense of rhythm and momentum, drawing the reader in and keeping them engaged. Additionally, Long Soldier’s incorporation of Lakota language and culture adds a unique and powerful dimension to her writing, highlighting the importance of language and identity in shaping our understanding of the world around us. Overall, Long Soldier’s writing style is both thought-provoking and captivating, making her work a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary poetry and Native American literature.
Analysis of Layli Long Soldier’s Personal Experience
Layli Long Soldier’s personal experience is a crucial aspect of her work, as it informs her perspective on the power of language and the impact of historical trauma. As a member of the Oglala Lakota Nation, she has experienced firsthand the effects of colonialism and the erasure of indigenous languages and cultures. This has led her to explore the ways in which language can be used as a tool of resistance and reclamation, as well as the ways in which it can be used to perpetuate harm and oppression. Through her poetry and essays, Long Soldier offers a powerful critique of the ways in which language has been used to marginalize and silence indigenous peoples, while also celebrating the resilience and creativity of those who have fought to preserve their languages and cultures. Overall, her work is a testament to the power of language to shape our understanding of the world and our place within it, and a call to action for all of us to use our words wisely and with care.
Exploration of Cultural Identity in Whereas
In her book, Whereas, Layli Long Soldier explores the complexities of cultural identity and the impact of historical trauma on Native American communities. Through her use of language and form, she challenges the dominant narrative and offers a new perspective on the experiences of Indigenous peoples. By examining the language of government documents and the ways in which they have been used to oppress Native Americans, Long Soldier highlights the importance of language in shaping cultural identity. She also explores the role of ceremony and tradition in maintaining cultural identity and the ways in which these practices have been disrupted by colonization and assimilation. Overall, Long Soldier’s work offers a powerful critique of the ways in which Native American identity has been constructed and offers a vision for a more just and equitable future.
Interpretations of Whereas in Different Contexts
The word “whereas” is a powerful tool in legal and political contexts. It is often used to introduce a statement of fact or a condition that must be met before a decision can be made. However, the interpretation of “whereas” can vary depending on the context in which it is used. In legal documents, “whereas” is often used to provide background information or to establish the basis for a decision. In political contexts, “whereas” is often used to introduce a resolution or a statement of intent. Understanding the different interpretations of “whereas” in different contexts is essential for effective communication and decision-making.
Implications for Indigenous Rights and Sovereignty
Layli Long Soldier’s poem “Whereas” is a powerful critique of the language used in official government documents, particularly those that pertain to Indigenous peoples. The poem highlights the ways in which the language of “whereas” is used to erase Indigenous sovereignty and rights, and to justify the ongoing colonization of Indigenous lands and peoples.
The implications of this erasure are significant for Indigenous peoples, who have long struggled to assert their rights and sovereignty in the face of settler colonialism. By using language that erases Indigenous sovereignty and rights, the government is able to continue to assert its own authority over Indigenous lands and peoples, without any acknowledgement of the ongoing harm that this causes.
Moreover, the use of “whereas” language also serves to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and myths about Indigenous peoples, such as the idea that they are “primitive” or “uncivilized.” This language reinforces the idea that Indigenous peoples are somehow inferior to non-Indigenous peoples, and that their rights and sovereignty are not as important or valid.
Overall, Long Soldier’s poem is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights and sovereignty, and the ways in which language can be used to perpetuate harm and erasure. It is a call to action for all of us to be mindful of the language we use, and to work towards a more just and equitable future for Indigenous peoples.