Vine Deloria Jr. quotes

Vine Deloria Jr. was a Native American author, theologian, historian, and activist, recognized for his influential writings on Indigenous rights. His book "Custer Died for Your Sins" challenged stereotypes and reshaped national conversations about Native American history and sovereignty. He became a leading voice advocating for Native American self-determination and cultural pride. Here are 4 of his quotes:

Western civilization, unfortunately, does not link knowledge and morality but rather, it connects knowledge and power and makes them equivalent.

Vine Deloria Jr.

Who will find peace with the lands? The future of humankind lies waiting for those who will come to understand their lives and take up their responsibilities to all living things. Who will listen to the trees, the animals and birds, the voices of the places of the land? As the long forgotten peoples of the respective continents rise and begin to reclaim their ancient heritage, they will discover the meaning of the lands of their ancestors. That is when the invaders of the North American continent will finally discover that for this land, God is red.

Vine Deloria Jr.

Before any final solution to American history can occur, a reconciliation must be effected between the spiritual owner of the land – American Indians – and the political owner of the land – American Whites. Guilt and accusations cannot continue to revolve in a vacuum without some effort at reaching a solution.

Vine Deloria Jr.