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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! 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

Are all Native Americans getting stimulus checks?

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was signed into law in March included an economic impact payment to every American with a Social Security number. Tax filers with adjusted gross income up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Identity, Intolerance

In Maine, many native children were taken and placed in non-native families up until the 1970s. I believe my late grandmother was one of these children, but I don’t know if these records were kept. How can we reconnect when there was so much displacement?

Yes, our history of being colonized has left a dark cloud over our identities and familial ties, but the good news is that there is a large community of folks with similar stories who have got your back. I applaud you for beginning your journey of discovering more about who…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Education, Identity, Intolerance, Non-Native Allies

Is it ok to create the art work of another tribe? As a kid I was taught Haida art by a Haida artist and I would like to explore it more now. I am part Cree but did not grow up with the culture as my father was put into foster care during the 60’s scoop.

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, Education, Identity, Intolerance, Non-Native Allies

Is it offensive to American Indians for a non-Native to make items that are traditionally Native American? Such as beading work or dream catchers that follow traditional type practices but are not for financial gain?

Thanks for writing in! By asking this question I can see that you are coming from a place of respect and wanting to do the right thing when it comes to respecting Native culture. As we move forward as a society, we are starting conversations with great questions like the…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Education, Identity, Intolerance, Non-Native Allies

My friend made a comment about a video she’d seen of an POC dancing, and how she was shocked on how they were ACTUALLY good at dancing. When me and a friend said she sounded racist, she got mad and sat at a dif table(lunch). What do i do

Well, when we see or hear someone being intolerant of another culture, it’s good to speak up! So good on you. There are ways of doing this that might be better than others, so when you are talking to this person, I want to encourage you to be patient and…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Intolerance
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