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Hi Auntie! I’m pretty fair skinned compared to a lot of my family and it has always made me feel insecure in my identity. I’ve been called “white girl” or when I say I’m Indigenous I’m asked to “prove it.” How do I gain confidence in my identity as a Native?

Hi there, Thanks for reaching out! I answered a question similar to yours recently. Check it out and let me know if you need any more help: www.wernative.org/ask-auntie-questions/get-over-my-light-skin? Best of luck on your journey, Auntie Manda
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

Hello Auntie, I’ve finally found what people I come from (Purépecha of Mexico)! But, I don’t know how to connect with my culture when it’s so hard to find info? I’ve tried looking online to learn but it gets dicouraging bc there’s not a lot available.

Dear Relative, Thanks for reaching out! 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. I am always glad to hear when people want to explore their Indigenous identity and heritage.…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

I made a painting of an Indian maiden and wanted to know if it is acceptable to the Native American culture and that it does not offend anyone. I have a friend who lived on a res and said it was okay, but I want to be sure. It is based off of Arizona.

I’m glad you asked this question, Auntie and Uncle asked me as a Diné artist to respond to your question. Please continue to take these precautions and ask these questions, as an artist interested in another culture’s traditional art work. Good to hear that you have respect for other Native…
Answered by Cousin Corey
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Spirituality

Hi Auntie! I’m reconnecting to my mi’gmaq roots, but worry I may not be Native enough to do so. I don’t actually know when the last “full blood” ancestor I had was, but I’d guess traditions stopped being passed down about 3-4 generations ago.

Hey there, Thanks for reaching out! 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…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

Hello Auntie, I recently found out I am a little over 50% Yaqui from Sonora and Apache from Southwestern Arizona through a DNA test. I know my great grandmother was full blood Yaqui, however we have no birth records. How would I take a blood quantum test?

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

Who is Ray Natrall?

Ray Natraoro Natrall is a Northwest Coast Salish artist. He produces masterful wood carvings learning the art form from his late uncle who carved canoes. Ray has been creating work since roughly 1994 and had several successful art mentors guiding his way. His work embodies different styles of wood carvings…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity
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