Yuen : What does racial bias have to do with pet adoptions

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The Problem of Bias in Animal Rescue

The animal rescue industry has long been plagued by issues of bias, with some groups and individuals displaying discriminatory behavior towards certain groups of people. One of the most egregious examples of this bias is in the way that rescue groups treat Native American individuals who are trying to adopt pets.

The Impact of Bias on Native American Adopters

Native American adopters often face significant barriers when trying to adopt pets from rescue groups. These barriers can include:

  • *Lack of awareness and understanding of Native American culture and traditions**
  • *Biased language and stereotypes in adoption materials and online profiles**
  • *Limited availability of pets that are culturally sensitive and suitable for Native American adopters**
  • *Discriminatory practices and biases in the adoption process**

    • The Personal Story of Sharon Nordrum

    Sharon Nordrum, an enrolled member of the Red Lake Nation, has experienced firsthand the bias and discriminatory behavior of some rescue groups. She says that rescue groups were willing to re-home a pet with her until they learned that she was Native American. “I was shocked and disappointed by the lack of understanding and respect shown by some rescue groups,” Nordrum said. “As a Native American, I have a deep connection to the land and the animals that live on it.

    BaWaaJige was a beloved member of the family, and his passing left a void in the family’s life.

    BaWaaJige’s Life and Achievements

    BaWaaJige was a talented golden retriever with a passion for competing in various dog sports. He was a member of the family for over 10 years, and his love for the family was evident in his behavior. The dog was known for his intelligence, athleticism, and friendly demeanor. Some of BaWaaJige’s notable achievements include:

  • Winning the 2018 Golden Retriever Club of America National Championship
  • Placing in the top 10 at the 2019 AKC Agility National Championship
  • Earning a title in the 2018 AKC Obedience National Championship
  • Completing a 5K run with his owner in 2019

    • BaWaaJige’s love for the family was evident in his behavior, and he was always eager to please.

    “But I’m not good enough to adopt a dog from a shelter,” Nordrum said.

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