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Hey! I’m someone who plays a lot of Dungeons & Dragons, and as a result, I tend to write a lot of fantasy worldbuilding. I’m writing a group of people who revere nature (called druids in-game) and have really powerful magic that allows them to befriend the wilderness, shapeshift into animals, etc. They live in nomadic hunter-gatherer groups, which I would describe as “tribes,” because it’s much faster than “small, tight-knit nomadic hunter-gatherer groups.” Is this usage of the word “tribe” offensive?

Hi there! Thanks for writing in. This service is for Native youth but we do try to answer all questions when we can. Your question is a complex one, and I’m happy you’re reaching out to try to make the most informed decision you can. There are multiple things to…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Identity, Non-Native Allies

Hi Auntie! I recently have been using crystals but am curious about Native American religion since I am Native American myself, I don’t want to betray any religion but I just want to know if I can believe in both!

Gunalchéesh, thank you for reaching out. You are not the only person who is finding balance in their traditional and personal spiritualities. You can believe in whatever you like! As indigenous people, we constantly walk in two worlds. With one eye we see the western and eastern ways, with the…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Culture and Language, Spirituality

I’m a native American from Nevada. Is it possible to go to rehabs outside my state? How do I reach out for funding? I’m already known as a drug addict but I really need treatment I’m scared.

Thank you so much for writing in. Reaching out for help is something that takes strength and bravery; I’m proud of you for doing that. You are not the only one in this situation. Struggling with addiction is scary, and it’s made even scarier when the people around you don’t…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Life Tips, Mental Health, Physical Health, Relationships

We were always told that my great grandmother was apache. Her son,(my grandfather) and my mother half passed. And many of my elders have passed and the ones that are alive only recall that my grandfather did sing and speak in a native language when they were small. I understand that we are not recognized as native unless proved. But as far as the Apache being hunted. I feel like there aren’t any records even more so for the apache in Mexico. We know my grandmother was born in 1894 Guanajuato and passed in 1964 chihuahua. I guess my question is, how is there a way to research more Info in Mexico? And is there any help we can get.

Thank you for writing in. I’m sorry you’re going through this journey without the presence of many of your elders. You’re doing the right thing by connecting with the elders who are still with you and by asking for help. I hope I can help point you in the right…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Relationships

Hi Auntie, I was put in foster care when I was two. I just found out that my mother and grandfather are apache, but I’m not sure how much my mother’s percentage is, and I don’t know what tribe!! How do I found out what tribe? He came from TX?!

I believe this is an important question. Finding where you come from and helping establish your identity are all necessary in life. Knowing why and what things are in place to protect your cultural knowledge is important as well. ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) exists to protect the best interest…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

Why do they call us Indian?

I like this question a lot. It’s not a question about how we got our name, everyone knows the failed discovery of Columbus. But the Why, to me that’s the most important question to ask. Knowing their why can help strengthen who you are. I want to preface this by…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity

StrongHearts exists to restore power to Natives impacted by domestic, dating and sexual violence

StrongHearts Native Helpline is a helpline dedicated to serving the needs of Native American and Alaska Native peoples affected by domestic, dating and sexual violence. Their advocates are available 24/7 by texting or calling 1-844-762-8483 or by clicking on the chat now icon on strongheartshelpline.org. Their services are always free,…
Answered by Uncle Paige
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Relationships, Sexual Health
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