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Hi Auntie, my grandma’s family is Choctaw and honoring ancestors is important to us. I want to wear their regalia to keep the traditions of my family alive. However, I was told because I’m White and too removed, that I can’t. What are your thoughts?

Hi Relative, It is so wonderful that you want to honor your ancestors through your regalia and traditions! This is so important. I’m sorry that people have said some things to discourage you from participating in these important cultural traditions. The great and challenging thing is, that you’re the only…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Education, Identity, Non-Native Allies

Hello! I work for a company that has a project they have titled "Thunderbird." We are not at all a Native-owned or operated company. I am worried that this is culturally appropriative. Is it?

Hey there, Thank you for asking this question and being mindful about how your company may be appropriating Indigenous culture. The thunderbird is significant to many different tribes across North America. It plays an important role in our diverse histories, artworks, and spiritualities. When I talk to others about this,…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Non-Native Allies

How to begin to trace what tribe(s) I belong to??? Recently did a genetic test I’m 44% native American I want to know where I belong.

Hey there, Thank you for your question. I am always glad to hear when someone wants to connect to their culture. The issues around DNA testing are complicated and controversial. The short answer is that there is no DNA test to prove ties to a specific tribe. First off what…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Intolerance, Mental Health, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality

Hi Auntie, I’m drawn to Navajo style rugs and blankets. I love the symbolism like the diamond, which I understand may represent the four corners of the Dinetah. Is it okay to purchase a design like this from a non-tribesperson?

Hey there, By asking this question I can see that you have some concerns. Listen to your gut…and let’s talk it through. In general, I recommend that people buy Native art from Native artists. There are so many talented Indigenous artists out there to support! Native art done by non-Native…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Education, Identity, Non-Native Allies

I grew up in a white household because my parents are divorced. I feel disconnected from my culture, i used to jingle dance when i was younger but i wanted to know how to get involved in the community as a teenager who doesn’t have much native family.

Dear Penelope, 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, yet there is no right or wrong way for doing this. If…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Mental Health, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality

My baby is Native. I’m white & her father’s only 1/16 Chickasaw, looks white & has not been raised up in his culture at all. l want her to be connected to her heritage while being sensitive to people who are full Native.

Dear Anna, You’re a good mom. Identity and knowing who we are is one of the most important journeys we can walk. I encourage you to help your daughter explore her identity. This is a great start. There are many ways you can do this together, yet there is no…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Education, Identity, Non-Native Allies

Hi! I have a friend who has learned beadwork from an elder in our community. She has started selling her own work, and while it’s not all indigenous designs and symbols, she’s making a profit off of it all. She’s 100% white. Should I call her out?

Hi Emma! By asking this question I can see that you have some concerns. Listen to your gut…and let’s talk it through. From a design standpoint, Indigenous designs are the bomb. However, what is missing when non-Natives replicate traditional designs is that they are likely to not be taught in…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Activism, Education, Identity, Intolerance, Non-Native Allies

I am believed to be a mix of Onondaga and Seneca but I can not prove my heritage because of documentation loss and dodging.My grandfather and parents have cut all ties with the Rez.I live all the way across country. How can I connect with my people?

Dear Relative, 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, yet there is no right or wrong way for doing this. I…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Mental Health, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality
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