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Hi, Auntie. As an undocumented Native (Cherokee/Osage/Senca) married to Choctaw Native, what clothing is acceptable to wear? My daughters wear Choctaw diamonds and ribbon skirts.

Hi there and thanks for writing in! There are all types of identities: personal, group, cultural, racial, ethnic identity… and the list goes on. The really great thing about identity, is that ultimately you get to decide how you want to see yourself. If you have a strong connection to…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Education, Identity, 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

Ever since the birth of my first grandchild, I have been more drawn to my native American side. I am Cree my grandbaby is enrolled Cherokee, would it be wrong for me to make her a ribbon dress when her Daddy’s family disowned them after his father’s death

Over the last few years, after events at Standing Rock, the Ribbon Skirt has been making the rounds on Turtle Island. Ribbon skirts are a symbol of resilience, sacredness and survival and is not bound to one specific tribe, but influences by the Plains Tribes. Water protectors at Standing Rock…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Spirituality

so theres this guy im friends with well its complicated. he used to like me and i kinda liked him but never said it and now hes acting real distant like even when i commented on his insta post he deleted the post after friends teased him why do you think?

Yes, relationships can be incredibly complicated. And, people can become sensitive when they put their feelings out on the line and don’t have them returned. Also, it’s not uncommon for friends to tease or embarrass their friends about people they may like or have a crush on. Perhaps this is…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Physical Health, Relationships, Sexual Health

Hello Auntie, call me E. I am a convert to Judaism, but have become fascinated by native cultures and beliefs. My question is if and when a native "prays" to something other than the creator, does that constitute an act of worship? Thank you.

Hello E. This is an interesting question and the answer is based on what your individual understanding of what “worship” means. Worship can be defined as a show reverence and adoration for (a deity); or honor with religious rites. For many American Indian people our connection with the Creator, spirits,…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality
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