Jay Miller (anthropologist)

Jay Miller (born July 25, 1947, died October 27, 2019) was an American anthropologist known for his extensive research and writing on Indigenous cultures of North America, particularly focusing on language, religion, and folklore. He held a PhD in anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh and dedicated his career to documenting and interpreting traditional knowledge.

Miller's work spanned a variety of tribal groups including the Delaware (Lenape), the Tsimshian, and various tribes of the Pacific Northwest. He was particularly interested in the intersection of language and culture, and frequently published on topics such as traditional narratives, ritual practices, and the role of oratory. He emphasized the importance of understanding cultural concepts from an emic (insider's) perspective.

Among his notable publications are "Tsimshian Culture: A Light through the Ages" (1998), "Earth Song, Sky Talk: Native American Folklore" (1993), and "Principles of Social and Cultural Anthropology" (1991). Miller served as a consultant to various museums and tribal organizations, actively working to promote Indigenous cultural preservation and education. His research often involved collaboration with tribal elders and community members, aiming to accurately represent their traditions and perspectives. He contributed significantly to the fields of ethnolinguistics, folklore studies, and Native American studies.