Oppression In 'Okay' By David, By David And Borders By Thomas King

The brutality and inescapability of oppression are major themes in "Okay" By David and "Borders" by Thomas. Okay" by David demonstrates the shame that has been instilled in native peoples over their history, culture, and traditions. Tara, a young woman, and her grandpa are central characters in the story. In the story it shows how Tara is not only anxious about her future as she is expecting a baby, but also because her grandpa is critically ill. The impending death of her grandpa has thrown her into a state of confusion and despair, as they share a close bond. He has been instrumental in teaching her about their heritage, culture, and their lifestyles. Comparatively, the story "Borders" by Thomas King has a comparable presentation; but

The lead character in this narrative, Tara, navigates feelings of anxiety stemming from the passing of her grandfather while simultaneously uncovering previously unknown details regarding her heritage. Her ‘"dad never taught [her] about who [she] was?" “But then [her] Moshom did teach [her]...”’, This highlights how society has instilled a sense of shame, preventing people from celebrating their roots. It is a form of oppression that restricts individuals from discovering their origins and where they come from. This sense of shame can lead to a disconnection from one's cultural identity and a lack of understanding about one's heritage. Tara's journey of self-discovery not only allows her to embrace her roots but also challenges the societal norms that perpetuate this oppression. Through her experiences, she learns the importance of celebrating and preserving cultural heritage for future

The short story entitled "Borders" authored by Thomas King delves into the theme of a young girl who embarks on a journey that leaves her mother feeling apprehensive about her child's future. This story highlights the challenges faced in daily life when one is oppressed. The mother and youngest child embark on a trip to visit the eldest in Salt Lake City, but to get there, they must cross the border. At the border, they are questioned about their citizenship. The mother repeatedly states that they are from "Blackfoot," but the guard insists that they must declare themselves as either American or Canadian. Ultimately, the guard "…told [them] that if [the] mother didn't declare her citizenship, [they] would have to go back to where we came from.” The inability of individuals who identify as "Blackfoot" to freely move about is a stark reminder of the systematic oppression they face. This restriction serves as a painful reminder of the obstacles and barriers that these individuals must endure as they navigate the world. It is a clear injustice that must be addressed and corrected to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and