Mashantucket Pequot Nation Hosts National Teacher Training On Native History

MASHANTUCKET, CT — A new educator training program launched by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation aims to improve how Indigenous history is taught in American classrooms.

The Pequot Neepun Teacher Institute is a week-long residential program for K-12 teachers. Thirty-six educators from across the country were selected from a pool of 256 applicants to participate this year, according to a statement.

The program is hosted by the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center and the Nation’s Education Department. It focuses on correcting inaccuracies in how Indigenous history is presented, particularly concerning the Pequot people.

“We have a wealth of wisdom and beauty to share about our vibrant people and culture,” Tribal Councilor Crystal Whipple said in a statement. “It is vital that we continue to educate and empower future generations with the truth of our legacy.”

The institute’s theme is “The Pequot War: America’s First Attempted Genocide and the Resilience of the Pequot People.” Topics include colonization, the Pequot War, and the Nation’s survival.

“Knowing the false narratives that have been perpetuated, we are grateful to be in a position to provide an accurate understanding about who we are and where we come from,” Joshua Carter, executive director of the Mashantucket Pequot Museum, said in a statement.

Originally supported by a federal grant, the program is now fully funded by the Tribal Nation.

“We have an opportunity to positively impact American schools with this program,” said Rebecca Lord Gomez, the institute’s co-director. “The goal is to cultivate more culturally intelligent, compassionate and informed teachers.”

For more details, visit www.pequotmuseum.org and www.pequoteducation.com.