This text is an in depth and compelling discussion of the affects of cultural genocide and colonization, focusing on indigenous communities in North America. Talaga tells us about the alarmingly high suicide rates among young people in indigenous communities and says that identity issues caused by colonialism are to blame. Talaga argues that the current socio-political systems are failing indigenous communities in North America. These communities are reliant on the federal government for funding and support, and therefore often do not have doctors of mental health professionals living in their community. She shows how many people must travel to receive healthcare and mental health treatment, and how they are often failed by the system when they do travel. Talaga argues that mental health treatment fails considerably under this system, as many people return from treatment and relapse.
Instead, Talaga argues for self-sufficiency for indigenous communities, so that they can decide the best treatment for individuals. An interesting element of this text is the fact that Talaga uses real life stories to illustrate her arguments. These stories are incredibly emotional and sad to read and reveals how tragic this issue is. The personal and human aspect of this novel is perhaps what makes it so compelling, explaining the real human impact behind the statistics.
