In the government schools, which are referred to as public schools, Indian policy has been instituted there, and its a policy where they do not encourage, in fact, discourage, critical thinking and the creation of ideas and public education.

In this quote, Russell Means critiques the government schools (referred to as public schools) in the United States, claiming that they serve as a tool for Indian policy that discourages critical thinking and the creation of ideas. Means suggests that these schools, especially in the context of Native American communities, are designed to suppress the independent thought and innovation of students, particularly those from marginalized groups. Instead of encouraging students to think critically and develop their own ideas, he argues that these schools promote conformity and control.

Means' statement highlights his belief that public education systems, especially in relation to Native American children, are a means of enforcing assimilation rather than fostering individuality and empowerment. He criticizes the education system for limiting creativity and stifling the intellectual potential of students by adhering to rigid curricula and government-driven policies. This aligns with his broader perspective on the marginalization of Indigenous peoples and the role of government institutions in maintaining that status quo.

The origin of this quote stems from Means' role as a Native American activist and prominent figure in the American Indian Movement (AIM). Means was outspoken in advocating for the rights of Native Americans and was critical of how U.S. government policies, including those in the education system, have historically sought to assimilate Native populations rather than respect their cultures and autonomy. His perspective on education was shaped by his own experiences and the broader historical context of colonialism and cultural suppression in Indigenous communities.

Ultimately, Means' quote underscores his belief that the education system should empower students to think critically and challenge the status quo. He argues that by discouraging critical thinking and the free expression of ideas, the government schools not only stifle individual growth but also continue to perpetuate systems of control and cultural domination, especially for marginalized communities like Native Americans.