From what I understand of the word tribe it is a grouping of people in a shared community with the same religious beliefs; usually associated with Native peoples. Connotations I make with the word when it comes to my thought process is loyalty, family, and selflessness. When junior refers to the word “tribe” in his narrative, he does not appear to associate it with positive feelings like I do. He does not feel safe or appreciated in his community. Whenever Junior uses the word tribe in his writing, he is using it as a synonym for the people on the “rez.”
This is shown in Reindeer Games when he says, “My fellow tribal members saw me and they all stopped cheering, talking, and moving.” (Alexie 143) In this part of the book, the Reardan basketball team had just arrived at Wellpinit High School (Junior’s old school), to face off for their first game. These people are supposed to stick by him just like family. But, they’re jumping to cut him out of their lives with the first chance given to them. This environment Junior has been forced to grow up in has caused his view of what a tribe is to be skewed.
A tribe to Junior simply means the people on the “rez” with very few (if any) emotional ties. Verification of this is when Junior states, “Some of
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This is confirmed when Junior proclaims, “If you let people into your life a little bit, they can be pretty damn amazing.” (Alexie 129) Junior is referring to Penelope and Roger being concerned for his well being after finding out how poor he is. The only person who came close to this level of affection was Rowdy. In addition, he is accepted by his team when “Everybody in the gym yelled and clapped and stomped their feet.” (Alexie 141) after Junior made a jump shot against Roger in “full-court one-on-one.” (Alexie 139) Having approval from his peers is a first for Junior. It is a major shift from being beaten up daily and