Cherokee Removal - The “Trail Of Tears”: Ethical Dilemmas

Cherokee Removal - The “trail of tears”: ethical dilemmas, leadership conflicts, and slavery

In this research essay, I will explore the multifaceted historical events surrounding the Cherokee Removal, commonly known as the Trail of Tears, with particular focus on ethical dilemmas, leadership conflicts among the Cherokee, and the practice of slavery within the Cherokee Nation. The aim is to present a balanced analysis that considers the complex social, political, and moral dimensions of this tragic chapter in American history.

Reflecting on Ethical Dilemmas and Personal Responses

The Cherokee Removal posed significant ethical dilemmas rooted in the clash between federal policies and indigenous rights. The forced relocation violated basic human rights, as the U.S. government mandated the removal without consulting or obtaining voluntary consent from the Cherokee people. An ethical issue that emerges is the obligation of leadership to protect their people versus the pressure to comply with external governmental authority. As an observer and future healthcare provider, I might respond differently by advocating for nonviolent resistance and establishing dialogue to protect Cherokee sovereignty, aligning with principles of social justice and ethical patient advocacy (Beauchamp & Childress, 2013). In healthcare, respecting patient autonomy and informed consent reflect similar ethical considerations, emphasizing the importance of advocacy in morally complex situations.

The “Aha” Moment and Its Implications for Nursing Care

A pivotal realization during this learning was the profound impact of systemic injustice on vulnerable populations. Witnessing how political motives can override human dignity heightened my awareness of the importance of cultural competence and social advocacy in nursing. An “Aha” moment occurred when understanding the resilience of the Cherokee despite leadership conflicts and societal oppression. This insight will inspire me to incorporate a holistic, patient-centered approach, recognizing socio-political factors affecting health outcomes, and advocating for equitable treatment regardless of background (Bryant-Lukosius et al., 2018).

Areas of Unpreparedness in Clinical Decision-Making

While reviewing the Cherokee scenario, I recognized gaps in my preparedness to address complex ethical conflicts such as respecting cultural values, navigating leadership disagreements, and understanding the historical context of oppressed groups. After completing the care plan, I felt less confident in managing situations where cultural beliefs conflict with medical advice or organizational policies. This highlights the need for increased cultural humility training and historical awareness to inform clinical judgments effectively. Understanding the historical trauma experienced by Indigenous populations will enable me to deliver more compassionate and culturally safe care (Duran et al., 2018).

Key Concepts Learned and Future Application

Several critical concepts emerged from studying this scenario. First, the importance of cultural humility in healthcare, which involves ongoing self-reflection and acknowledgment of one's limitations in understanding diverse cultural contexts. Applying this concept can improve patient trust and adherence (Tervalon & Murray-García, 1998). Second, the significance of leadership and advocacy within ethically contentious situations; as a nurse, advocating for patient rights involves recognizing social injustices and responding ethically. Third, understanding historical trauma and its long-term health impacts is vital for providing holistic care to Indigenous populations. Incorporating trauma-informed care practices can mitigate health disparities (Fallon et al., 2016). These concepts will guide my future clinical decisions, emphasizing advocacy, cultural safety, and trauma-informed approaches to improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion and Personal Reflection

Exploring the Cherokee Removal has been a profound educational experience that deepened my understanding of the ethical, social, and historical factors influencing healthcare. What stood out most was the resilience of the Cherokee people amid leadership conflicts and systemic oppression. Recognizing these enduring struggles inspires a commitment to cultural humility and advocacy in my nursing practice, ensuring I serve all patients with respect, empathy, and an awareness of socio-historical contexts. This knowledge reaffirms the importance of compassionate care grounded in social justice principles—not only for Indigenous populations but for all marginalized communities.

References

• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• Bryant-Lukosius, D., Dicenso, A., et al. (2018). Advancing nursing leadership in Indigenous health. Nursing Leadership, 22(3), 89–102.
• Duran, B., et al. (2018). What is cultural safety and why does it matter? The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research, 50(2), 3–7.
• Fallon, B., et al. (2016). Trauma-informed care among Indigenous populations. Journal of Indigenous Health, 2(1), 12–20.
• Tervalon, M., & Murray-García, J. (1998). Cultural humility versus cultural competence: A critical distinction in defining physician training outcomes in multicultural education. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 9(2), 117–125.