How do you celebrate July 4th?

Hi there! This is a good question!   I first want to say that it’s okay to celebrate any US holiday however you choose to.   It’s also okay if you want to boycott or redefine the holiday by reflecting on how the holiday might look through an Ind...Read More

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 an 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 tradit...Read More

I am 50 percent Native American. I’ve always been told I’m Hispanic. I came to New Mexico for work and was shocked to see so many people that look like me. I feel lied to... or that something was taken from us. What should I do.

Dear Relative,   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 doi...Read More

I am believed to be a mix of Onondaga and Senca but I can not prove my heritage because of documentation loss and dodging.My grandfather and parents have cut all ties with the Rez.I live all the way across country. How can I connect with my people?

Dear Relative,   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 doi...Read More

I had a vivid dream where I was told my native name. This young woman I’ve seen more than once, unsure if she is my ancestor or my spirit guide, announced or gave it to me. I’m proud of my name but am curious if it’s okay to use my native name publicly?

Hi Merrick!   Dreams are such a fascinating story to tap into. I too have incredibly vivid and detailed dreams. Often, I can feel, smell, and make decisions within them. They used to scare me because some of them were pretty intense.   If you...Read More