Happy Indigenous Peoples Day - Columbus Day!
I was raised without knowing who my father was. Many saw it in me and protected me. They understood the beauty in my bloodline but also understood the tragedy. They didn’t want me to be touched by the tragedy.
My elders tried to teach me about my roots without saying that it was in my biological father’s bloodline. It wasn’t until today that I realized how beautiful, loving, accepting and wise they were, nor why my heart has always beat Native and in rhythm with my elders in the same ways.
The tall tales in my bloodline say that I am a descendant of the Cherokee Nation. While I have no proof that I am not, I know that the tall tales of some American families claimed to be descendants of a Cherokee Princess.
While my elders never told me that I was Indigenous, they did everything they could to instill as much of the culture, beliefs, traditions, stories and love within my presumed Native heart.
My favorite pairs of shoes were the moccasins my elders would purchase for me in Indigenous stores. The Indigenous would teach me about their heritage and answer my abundant questions to go along with my beloved moccasins.
My elders understood the significance of Great Turtle Island, Mackinac Island, Michigan to the Indigenous Peoples of America. They took me there several times to learn about the history and culture of those who came here before Columbus invaded our shores.
I spent my childhood happily swept up in the dream of one day discovering that I am a Native American. It gave me not only a deep love and appreciation for Native Americans but all Americans, including our ‘immigrant invaders.’
As just one of Nebraska’s famous Civil Rights activists, Chief Standing Bear said, "The blood is of the same color as yours. God made me, and I am a Man.” We are the same.
May Allah, God, the Creator bless our nation. Help us remember our roots as well as the roots of our nation because all of our hearts beat Native. Mashallah. God preserve it. Amin.
I honor you, our first Americans on Indigenous Peoples Day and every day who inspired, shaped and moulded our nation and our peoples for the good of all of humanity. I may not be a Native American but my heart will forever beat Native because I am an American. We are family.
As a human trafficking survivor, I ask that all Americans remember our nation’s murdered and missing, especially the Indigenous Peoples. No more stolen sisters!
Every life matters, especially yours.
God bless Nebraska and especially Her people.
