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Hi! I have some First Nations ancestry – I’m not sure how much, but it’s farther back than my grandmother. I would like to know this: Is there some sort of tattoo or something that I could get to honor 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

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

I just did my ancestry dna and found out I’m 44% Native American. I was adopted into a family at the age of four. I was always told I was native but I never had proof until last year. How do I see if I qualify for funds?

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, Relationships

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

Hi there! I’m currently working on a project for university and I’d really appreciate your input. What is the correct symbol Native Americans used for the sun? Is there a website that contains the proper symbols and their meaning that you could add a link

Hi there! Thanks for writing in! In short, there is no symbol for the Sun that is accepted and used by all Native American Tribes. There are 574 federally recognized tribes with their own religions, languages, art, and customs. Every tribe has different associations with the universe and animals, what…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Spirituality
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