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Hello! I feel kind of embarrassed by some “full” natives saying things like “you’re not actually native if you’re half native” and things like that. My mother is native, my dad is white. What do I say or how should I feel when people say things like that?

Dear Angelique, You’re not alone in feeling this way. I have people write to me all the time about not feeling “Native enough”. Being half-Zuni, I have felt this myself. What I can tell you, is that you are enough… of everything. Many people of different backgrounds share this experience.…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

I looked and tried to find an answer to this but I was interested on a native americans perspective. I absolutely love "southwestern" rug patterns and was hoping to buy one but cannot afford to buy one from a trading post

Dear Haley, Thank you for your question. There is so much beautiful artwork made by different Native communities. This is a tough question to answer directly and needs a nuanced understanding, as many people have different thoughts and beliefs about what is appropriation vs appreciation of Native culture. What is…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

Hi! I have some First Nations ancestry- Im not sure how much, but it’s farther back than my grandmother-but I would like to know this: is there some sort of tattoo or something that I could get to honour my ancestors without being culturally insensitive?

I am always glad to hear when people want to explore their Indigenous identity and heritage. Indigenous cultures are diverse and beautiful. But this exploration should be conducted with respect to our ancestors, past present and future. To begin, it is important to understand who Indigenous peoples are. Across North…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Spirituality

I want to learn about the story of the spider catching the snake but I can’t verify or find it. Is this a real Ojibwe tale? I am trying to learn more about my Native American culture.

Hi there! And, thanks for writing in. There are many stories about spiders, like spider woman or grandmother spider. However, I’m not familiar with the spider catching the snake story. Perhaps because it is Ojibwe, which I’m not so familiar with. If it’s possible, try to reach out and start…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

I was recently given photos of my great, great grandmother. She is holding a long bow and dressed in what I assume is her native clothing. I am very interested to know more about her and what tribe or band she is from. How do I go about doing this?

Dear Robin, How meaningful that you found this picture of your great, great grandmother! Identity and knowing who we are is one of the most important journeys we can walk. I encourage you to explore your identity. This is a great start. There are many ways you can do this,…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Spirituality
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