* Declining Public Support: Over time, the brutality and cultural destruction inherent in the system became increasingly apparent to the public. The horrific stories of abuse, neglect, and cultural assimilation began to gain traction in the media and amongst activists. This led to a significant decrease in public support and funding for the schools.
* Increased Native American Activism: Native American communities and advocacy groups played a crucial role in raising awareness and fighting for the closure of the schools. Their voices and organized resistance put immense pressure on the government to address the injustices.
* Legal Challenges: Several lawsuits and legal battles challenged the constitutionality and ethical practices of the boarding schools. These challenges, while not always immediately successful in shutting down specific schools, helped to build a legal framework for future action and exposed the systemic issues.
* Federal Government Policy Changes: While there was never a single, sweeping law declaring the end of all native boarding schools, the federal government gradually reduced its funding and involvement. The shift began in the mid-20th century with a growing understanding that the assimilationist goals of the schools were counterproductive and harmful. This transition involved increased funding for local, tribally controlled schools and programs.
* The Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA): While not directly aimed at shutting down boarding schools, ICWA significantly impacted the system by prioritizing the placement of Native children with their families and tribes, thereby reducing the number of children forcibly sent to boarding schools.
Even after federal funding and direct involvement largely ended, some schools remained operational for a time, often transitioning to a less overtly assimilationist model or closing due to other factors. The final closures happened on a case-by-case basis.
In short, the end of native boarding schools was a complex process resulting from a convergence of public pressure, legal action, Native American activism, and changing government policies. It wasn't a sudden event but a drawn-out dismantling of a system that lasted for over a century. The legacy of these schools continues to impact Native communities today.