After author Thomas King made a public announcement on Monday that he does not have Cherokee ancestry, reactions from Indigenous writers and academics varied. Some view King’s admission as a positive initial step, while others feel it lacks true accountability. Known for works such as “The Inconvenient Indian” and “Indians on Vacation,” King disclosed in an essay for The Globe and Mail that he discovered his lack of Cherokee heritage during a meeting with the Tribal Alliance Against Frauds (TAAF), an organization based in the United States.
During the Zoom call with TAAF, Daniel Heath Justice, a member of the Cherokee Nation and a professor at the University of British Columbia, noted that King appeared genuinely surprised by this revelation. However, Justice mentioned that many Cherokee citizens had been aware of King’s non-Cherokee background for a significant period. Justice emphasized that while King’s acknowledgment is a starting point, it should not be the sole action taken towards accountability, urging for learning from various voices within the Indigenous community.
Justice expressed optimism, stating that this moment could serve as an opportunity for reaffirming commitments rather than despair. He highlighted the presence of numerous talented Cherokee writers who offer authentic perspectives and connections to the Cherokee culture. Justice recommended reading works by Twila Barnes, Andrea L. Rogers, Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, Gladys Cardiff, Mary Leauna Christensen, and Wilma Mankiller to gain insight into Cherokee narratives.
Jesse Wente, an Anishnaabe writer, reflected on the impact of King’s revelation on his former students and communities connected to King. Wente, who distanced himself from King following an experience with director Michelle Latimer on a film adaptation, emphasized the importance of addressing personal issues before presenting oneself in public roles. He stressed that King bears the responsibility of repairing relationships affected by this revelation.
Celeste Pedri-Spade, an Anishinaabe associate professor at McGill University, expressed a sense of déjà vu upon hearing King’s disclosure, noting that questions about his heritage had been raised for years. Pedri-Spade urged King to take action by donating his book royalties to support Indigenous causes and artists, emphasizing the need for tangible support for Indigenous students and aspiring writers.
In response to the situation, calls have been made for King to fulfill his commitment to Indigenous causes and artists by contributing to initiatives that empower Indigenous communities and nurture future Indigenous talents.