Why are American Indian/Alaska Natives considered “invisible” in the U.S. population?

American Indian/Alaska Natives are often considered "invisible" in the U.S. population primarily due to their small population percentage. This demographic group makes up a relatively small fraction of the overall U.S. population, which can lead to their experiences, cultures, and issues being overlooked or underrepresented in broader societal discussions and considerations.

The concept of invisibility in this context refers to the marginalization and lack of visibility that American Indian/Alaska Natives face in various sectors including media representation, policy-making, and public opinion. When a group constitutes only a small percentage of the population, it can become easy for their needs and contributions to be overshadowed by larger demographics. This can perpetuate stereotypes and a lack of understanding among the general population.

While factors like migration rates, birth rates, and education can influence a group's visibility in different contexts, the specific challenge of being numerically small is a key reason for the "invisible" status of American Indians/Alaska Natives in the U.S.