But some teachers say one group is less a part of that family than any other - American Indian students, who make up about 4 percent of the student body. It's hard for them. There's probably more prejudice directed at natives than other kids. Though Pacific Island culture is known for its beautiful dances and Korean culture for its language, negative stereotypes of alcoholism and poverty tarnish American Indian culture, Cruz says. We're just underestimated.
Students say it's hard to break the stereotypes, and many say little is being done to try.
For example, at one of the twice-monthly meetings of the Native American Club, students played board games and ate cookies but didn't talk about issues the students face as minorities. They also made no plans to participate in an upcoming talent show to showcase cultural skills. The group has tried to have fund-raisers in the past. Everybody gives up. If another student in the club tries to take over and run it, no one will listen to them.