Indigenous literature professor at University of Windsor accused of false ancestry claims

A University of Windsor professor whose academic career has been based on her self-identification as Eastern Cherokee does not have any Indigenous ancestry, according to an activist group.

On Feb. 4, Tribal Alliance Against Frauds released the results of an investigation into the genealogy claims of Sandra Muse Isaacs — who has taught Indigenous literature at the University of Windsor since 2018.

After examination of Muse Isaacs' family tree, historical Cherokee census records, and Muse Isaacs' own writings, TAAF has determined that Muse Isaacs has "zero American Indian ancestry."

"In sum, there is no evidence that Isaacs has even the most distant relations by blood to Cherokees," states TAAF, which is based in the Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation in North Carolina.

"Anyone who claims an American Indian identity has a responsibility to factually substantiate that claim."

Asked for comment, the University of Windsor told CBC News in an email statement that the institution is aware of the TAAF news release.

"The university takes these matters seriously and is reviewing the information provided," the statement reads.

"Policy development surrounding Indigenous identity is complex, and the university recognizes the importance of Indigenous-led and informed approaches in these matters."

The report by TAAF states that Muse Isaacs has personally benefited from her self-identification as Eastern Cherokee, such as obtaining the Harvey Longboat scholarship at McMaster University — which is meant for Indigenous graduate students — four times.

"In numerous instances, she has claimed for herself funding and jobs earmarked for actual Native people," the report states.

The report also takes to task the University of Windsor, saying the group found no evidence that the institution "has any vetting process at all" for those who claim scholarship from an Indigenous perspective.

Muse Isaacs was hired through the President's Indigenous Peoples Scholars Program at the University of Windsor, which was created specifically to "advance the academic careers of Indigenous scholars" and "increase the strength and diversity of Indigenous voices" on campus.

On her faculty page on the University of Windsor website, Muse Isaacs wrote that she is "of Eastern Cherokee (Ani-tsisqua, Bird Clan) and Gaelic heritage (Clan McRae)," and that she grew up in western Detroit.

Muse Isaacs did not respond to CBC Windsor's attempts to contact her about this story.