“And it’s when we’re disconnected from the forces that give us life that we fall into despair and lose hope.”
I had the privilege of speaking with John Cornelius about generational trauma and healing in tribal communities. John shared his deeply personal story of growing up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where he experienced firsthand the complex challenges facing Native communities. From his early memories with his grandfather to navigating life in a community struggling with high suicide rates, overcrowding, and limited resources, John painted a vivid picture of reservation life.
Through our conversation, John helped illuminate the historical roots of current tribal challenges, including the devastating impact of forced relocation and the boarding school system that aimed to "Kill the Indian but save the man." As the first generation in his family not to attend boarding school, John offered unique insights into how historical trauma continues to affect Native communities today. The statistics are sobering - with Native populations seeing a 20% increase in suicide rates from 2015-2020, compared to just 1% in the general population.
What struck me most was John's message of hope and resilience. He spoke of a new generation of Native leaders who are returning to their communities with education, experience, and determination to create positive change. From youth programs to traditional ceremonies, community-based healing initiatives are gaining momentum. As John powerfully stated, "The warrior spirit cannot die. We are still here." His story reminds us that while the wounds of historical trauma run deep, the strength of tribal communities and their cultural traditions offer powerful pathways to healing.
Bio
John was born in Poplar Bluff, MO and raised on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. After receiving his GED from Oglala Lakota College in 2000, he joined the US Army and spent one year in South Korea in 2001 and a trip to Iraq in 2005. Upon returning to civilian life, he struggled to stay employed due to self-medicating his trauma with a self-destructive lifestyle. He spent some time homeless due to this lifestyle but with the help of some great people who saw his potential, he began to change his approach to life. In 2016 he became a Missouri Peer Support Specialist for the John J. Pershing VAMC At-Risk Veterans Program. He received his AA in Religion from Liberty University, VA in 2018. Hired on as the ERE Peer Support Specialist for FCC Behavioral Health in 2022 and transitioned to Suicide Prevention Specialist for the FCC/MIMH Firearm Suicide Prevention Grant, with emphasis on the faith-based community in 2023.
Show Notes
Origins & Purpose
Indian Civilization Act Fund (1819) - Legislation
Peace Policy (1869) - Senate Bill 136
Goal: Forced assimilation, stripping Native identity
“Kill the Indian, but save the man.” - Richard Henry Pratt
Impact on Native Communities
By 1926, nearly 83% of Indian school-age children were attending boarding schools.
Children were forced to abandon their language, culture, and traditions.
Harsh punishments, abuse, and psychological trauma were widespread.
Generations have inherited the deep scars left by these schools.
Personal Connection
“I am the first generation of my family to not attend a boarding school.”
The last boarding school closed in 1996.
“My children are the first generation since the creation of reservations to not grow up on one.”
Brigman Cornelius (Oneida), Carlisle Indian School Class of 1897 - One of 10,000 children taken to the school (1879-1918), with fewer than 200 graduates.
Read More on Generational Trauma
Overcoming Generational Trauma
Native contributions to modern society:
Language keepers and the Code Talkers who helped win wars
Artists, storytellers, and leaders preserving traditions
Indigenous leaders holding political office and enacting change
The warrior spirit continues—Native people are not just surviving, but thriving.
Suicide on the Reservation
From 2015-2020, the suicide rate among Native populations increased by 20%, compared to a 1% increase nationwide.
Native American youth accounted for 36% of youth suicides (2003-2014), with 42% involving firearms.
Cultural Perspective on Suicide
“I attended my first suicide funeral in the 6th grade.”
In Lakota culture, all life is sacred (Wakan).
Mitakuye Oyasin - “We are all related.”
Disconnection from traditions, community, and hope leads to despair.
What forces are pushing Native youth to such extremes?
Life on the Pine Ridge Reservation
Survival is key: Staying safe, warm, fed, and connected to ceremony.
The land is breathtaking yet harsh—winters can be deadly, summers unforgiving.
Once survival is mastered, a warrior’s purpose is to serve the Oyate (the people).
The Strength of the Community
Solar programs & air Crete dome homes led by the Red Cloud family
Suicide prevention programs like Tiny DeCory’s Mato (Bear) Program
Tokala Society protecting women and children
Local businesses like Dan’s Smokin’ Country BBQ and War Pony Dispo providing services
Leaders like Alicia Mousseau (Pine Ridge Vice President) and Pamela End of Horn (National Suicide Prevention Consultant) making an impact
Native Success & Representation
Indigenous actors, musicians, and fashion models breaking barriers
Native-run nonprofits bringing food, water, and hope
Coaches mentoring the next generation of athletes
Hunters and firewood cutters ensuring no one is left behind
Ceremony and language keepers preserving the culture
Tribal, state, and federal officials advocating for Indigenous rights
Final Thought: The Warrior Spirit cannot die. We are still here!