Dear Auntie, how do I find my other tribe? I’m Kumeyaay and also what I suspect is Apache, but I don’t know. I would love for you to answer. Thank you.
Howka! Well I applaud you for beginning your journey of discovering more about who you are.
Where to start?
- Relatives – You said you ‘suspect’ you are Apache. I’m guessing you’ve heard this through your family, or other relatives? This is where I would begin the search. Talk to the person you think has the most information, then go from there. Try talking to whoever you think might have any information for you. You could say something like, “It means a lot to me to know I’m Kumeyaay. I think I might be Apache too and I’d like to know more about that. Can you tell me anything about it?” Often what Apache tribe you’re from could be determined by where your grandparents were raised.
- Internet – Another place to look is the Internet. There are four Apache tribes in Arizona, one in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and even Texas. Each tribe has it’s own website with main office phone numbers you can call to connect you with their enrollment office. They’ll help guide you from there.
- Camp Kumeyaay Nation – If you’re enrolled with the Kumeyaay Nation you can always check with them to see if they have any helpful information for you, or can provide you with any support.
- Do some reading – a great book to read about the Apache is called “Big Sycamore Stands Alone” by Ian Record. It’s a great read and can connect you to the history of the Apache culture.
Keep it up!
This may be a bit challenging depending on how much information you’re starting out with and how much you’ll be able to gather along the way. Sometimes it’s just a matter of finding the right person. So don’t give up, just keep the conversation going.
Sometimes things have to happen in their own time. If it doesn’t match with your own timeframe, don’t take it personally. Be patient and know things will come together when they’re suppose to, as long as you’re doing your part.
Best of luck!
Auntie Manda
