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why do people say native americans took the land from the british when its the oppsite way around?

Hey there! Thanks for writing in. It sounds like this might be a small circle of folks that you’re around. This isn’t a general opinion that I have ever heard and I asked around a bit. What it sounds like, is perhaps there might be a couple folks you’re around…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: Education, Identity, Non-Native Allies

Is this like a suicide text thing?

Dear relative, Thank you for writing in. The Ask Auntie site is not a crisis line and we don’t monitor it 24/7. If you or a loved one are thinking about suicide or in crisis there are resources that are available for you. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: Identity, Mental Health

I am a black Cherokee. I feel like I don’t fit in with my indigenous side, and I am ashamed that I don’t know much of the culture. Even so, being a black Cherokee is tough to fit in since most don’t accept them. What should I do to feel more native? What should I do to feel pride on both sides of me?

Dear relative, Thank you for this question, it is a challenging question to answer. It saddens me to hear that you have experienced anti-Black racism, or lateral oppression, by your Native American communities. Racism in this country is challenging to address, and anti-Black racism can be even more challenging to address…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

How can I come out to my homophobic dad?

Dear Relative, This is a powerful question. My greatest priority is your safety. You are under no obligation to disclose anything about yourself to anyone. If you are wanting to do so, though, which it sounds like you are, develop a safety plan first. Some things to consider in the safety…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: 2SLGBTQ, Culture and Language, Identity, Intolerance, Spirituality

What should I say when non-natives ask if I speak my language? I feel insulted because it’s their fault we don’t know our languages and I feel mocked.

I get the frustration. Sit in it, spend some time there and look around. So that when you’re done with it, you can be ready to move on and you’re not dragged back into that space in the future because you’ve made peace with it. I also think you already…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: Activism, Identity, Intolerance, Non-Native Allies

Hey Auntie, I’m getting crazy cabin fever with the power outages and winter! Help!

I totally hear you. Winter, grey skies, quarantining, online learning, now power outages across the country to top it all off, it is brutal. So, think of the things you can control and learn to let go of the things you can’t. Easier said than done, right? So, work on…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Life Tips

Hey this is such a great question!

The first thing you can do is research and educate yourself about Black leaders, authors, artists and activists, and really learn about their work and what they have to say. I encourage you to share what you learn with your friends! You can also show your support by supporting Black…

Answered by Cousin Lael

Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

I am a 10 year old learning animation. But, I think I am too young, should I continue or wait?

I’m glad you asked this question, Auntie and Uncle asked me as a Diné artist to respond to your question. Please continue to be curious and ask these questions, as a developing artist interested in animation and art. Good to hear that you have respect for the art form. It’s…

Answered by Cousin Corey

Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Life Tips

How can I get a Native American name?

Dear relative, Thanks for reaching out. Being Native means different things to each person. There are 573 federally recognized tribes in the lower 48 states, 223 village communities in Alaska and the Hawaiian Islands; each with its own identity, culture, with over 300 languages. For some, it means that they…

Answered by Auntie Manda

Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Spirituality

I’m in foster care and I’m a Native, but I want to tap into my Native side and was wondering how would I be able to do so?

Thank you for writing this question in. I would encourage you to begin by looking inward. What does being native look like to you? When you say “tap into my native side” what does that mean, and what do you imagine when you say that? I believe these questions are…

Answered by Uncle Paige

Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

MORE ON THIS TOPIC

why do people say native americans took the land from the british when its the oppsite way around?

Is this like a suicide text thing?

How can I come out to my homophobic dad?

What should I say when non-natives ask if I speak my language? I feel insulted because it’s their fault we don’t know our languages and I feel mocked.

Hey Auntie, I’m getting crazy cabin fever with the power outages and winter! Help!

Hey this is such a great question!

I am a 10 year old learning animation. But, I think I am too young, should I continue or wait?

How can I get a Native American name?

I’m in foster care and I’m a Native, but I want to tap into my Native side and was wondering how would I be able to do so?

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