Maylei Blackwell, a UCLA professor known for her work focusing on Indigenous and Chicana women’s voices, found herself at the center of a controversy when allegations surfaced that her claims of Cherokee ancestry were false. Her research, which had been widely cited and praised, was called into question, leading to the revocation of an award from a Native American and Indigenous studies association. Blackwell, who had identified as mixed-race with Thai and Cherokee heritage, publicly apologized and acknowledged that her mother was white, vowing to seek repair for any harm caused.
The issue of false claims of Indigenous ancestry is not isolated to Blackwell’s case. The University of California has initiated a “fact-finding mission” in response to a series of similar cases in recent years. The UC Native American scholars held a symposium to address the growing concern over individuals falsely claiming Native American identity, often referred to as “Pretendians.” This issue has been reported at various UC campuses, including UC Riverside, UC Irvine, UC Berkeley, and UCLA, sparking debates on academic integrity, personal integrity, and the impact on Native American communities.
The controversy surrounding individuals who falsely claim Native American heritage goes beyond personal betrayal. Critics argue that Pretendians not only take advantage of grants, jobs, and speaking platforms intended for Native Americans, but they also exploit sacred ceremonies and intimate stories from trusting community members. This can have lasting personal and professional repercussions, particularly for students associated with the individual in question. The broader implications of these false claims extend to academic dishonesty and the erasure of authentic Indigenous voices and experiences.
The repercussions of false claims of Indigenous ancestry have prompted calls for action within the academic community. Phenocia Bauerle, director of Native American Student Development at UC Berkeley, is among those leading efforts to address this issue. Recommendations for action, including improving data collection on tribal affiliations of faculty, are currently being compiled by UC scholars, with the hope of completion by May. Some suggest that confirmed Pretendians should face academic sanctions or be required to return any benefits obtained under false pretenses.
The controversy surrounding Maylei Blackwell highlights the complexities of identity, academic integrity, and social justice. Blackwell, who had received a significant grant to train Indigenous women in Mexico as digital archivists, is now grappling with the aftermath of the revelations about her ancestry. Despite the challenges she faces, Blackwell remains committed to social justice and repairing any harm caused by her actions. Reflecting on her personal history of trauma and discrimination, Blackwell emphasizes the importance of creating space for marginalized voices and communities in academia.
The issue of false claims of Indigenous ancestry raises broader questions about identity, sovereignty, and inclusivity. Tribal citizenship is a political status that can only be conferred by self-governing tribal nations, yet many individuals across academic institutions claim Indigenous backgrounds without proof. The debate over tribal citizenship criteria, gatekeeping, and inclusivity continues to shape discussions within the academic community, with calls for greater transparency and accountability.
As universities grapple with the challenges posed by false claims of Indigenous ancestry, there is a growing recognition of the need for clear protocols and practices. Some institutions, such as the University of Minnesota, have implemented measures to verify heritage claims for specific positions or benefits. However, many U.S. universities remain hesitant to address this issue head-on, reflecting the broader complexities of identity, belonging, and accountability in academic spaces.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding false claims of Indigenous ancestry serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity, accountability, and respect for marginalized communities. As academic institutions navigate these challenges, there is a growing need for transparency, dialogue, and action to address the impact of Pretendians on Indigenous voices and experiences. The broader conversation around identity, sovereignty, and inclusivity continues to evolve, shaping the future of academia and the pursuit of social justice.