Don't wait to discover roots

Page 30

Dear Buffalo Spirit:

I live in Alabama and am Native American by descent. I want so badly to learn the old ways of my people, but it is hard discovering just who my people were.

I was told by my grandmother that we are Cherokee, and I am also some Native American on my father's side.

You know, when we are young and crazy, we do not care who we are or where we come from. By the time that we are much older, many of the Elders are already gone.

I waited almost too late to talk to my father and mother about our blood. I was told by my mother's cousin that, back then, your Native blood was not discussed, to keep quiet about your family.

I am the president of the parent committee for Native American education here where I live in Huntsville, Alabama. I want to help the other parents and the children, as well as my own, to know who they are and where they come from. But where do I start?

The more that I have learned about my white blood, I am ashamed to claim that side after the atrocities that they committed against Native Americans. I would appreciate any and all teachings that you could share with me.

-name not provided