So You Think You Can Count Coup in the Concrete Jungle? Decoding NYC's Native American Population
New York City: a melting pot of cultures, a haven for dreamers, and... surprisingly, home to a significant Native American population. That's right, folks, beneath the towering skyscrapers and flashing billboards, there's a vibrant community whose heritage stretches back centuries before the Dutch waltzed in and called it New Amsterdam.
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According to the 2020 census, over 180,000 New Yorkers identify as American Indian or Alaska Native, either alone or in combination with other races. That's a respectable 2% of the city's total population, which, when you consider the square footage of most NYC apartments, is basically a whole lot of people with fascinating family histories crammed into a not-so-spacious space.
Now, here's the interesting part: This number is on the rise! Compared to 2010, there's been a steady increase in folks identifying as Native American in the city. Maybe it's the lure of cheap dreamcatchers in tourist traps, perhaps it's the city's undeniable electric energy, or maybe it's just a growing sense of cultural pride. Who knows? But one thing's for sure: NYC's Native American community is thriving.
But Who Were the OG New Yorkers, You Ask?
Ah, that's where things get interesting. The land NYC sits on was originally home to the Lenape people, who called it Lenapehoking ("land of the Lenape"). Their presence here goes back thousands of years, way before the whole "city that never sleeps" business kicked off.
So, why aren't there more Lenape descendants around today? Well, centuries of forced migration and, well, let's just say not-so-friendly interactions with European settlers, took their toll. But the Lenape legacy lives on! There are several recognized Lenape nations with cultural centers in the area, and their history is being increasingly acknowledged.
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Due to the city's melting pot nature, many people with Native American ancestry might not identify as such on the census. So, the true number of New Yorkers with indigenous roots could be much higher.
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How to learn more about NYC's Native American history?
- Check out the NMAI (National Museum of the American Indian) George Gustav Heye Center in lower Manhattan.
- Explore the Lenape websites and cultural centers to learn about their rich heritage.
How to support NYC's Native American community?
- Attend cultural events and pow wows.
- Shop at Native-owned businesses and artists.
How to be a respectful visitor when encountering Native American culture?
- Educate yourself! Learn about proper etiquette and avoid stereotypes.
- Be mindful of cultural appropriation.
How to find your own Native American ancestry?
- Research your family history.
- Consider DNA testing services (use reputable ones!).
How to score the best frybread in NYC? (Okay, this one's a bit off-topic, but hey, frybread is amazing!)
- Hit up pow wows and cultural events – they often have frybread vendors.
- Keep an eye out for Native-owned restaurants – some might have frybread on the menu.
