As a child growing up my parents never talked much about our Native American ancestry. As a young adult I became extremely curious about my ancestry and all Native Americans. Over the past 9 years I have expanded my knowledge of tribal organizations and what it means to be Native.
One of the biggest moments of pride of being Native American came during a ceremony in Washington, DC where the Navajo Code Talker’s were awarded for their dedication. The Navajo Code talkers were an asset to this country. I felt a sense of pride to be Native American during that presentation. There were so many wonderful Native Americans that have gone on before us that have left a legacy and sense of pride for us to follow.
Another moment of understanding came to me when I enrolled in a Native American class in college. I learned how the Chickasaw tribe related to other tribes all over the world. During this class we were also taught basic Chickasaw language. It was wonderful to be able to learn the language of our Native people, even though I’m not Chickasaw I was very excited to be able to learn something that I could pass on to my children and other native children. I don’t have an extensive use of the language but I certainly know colors, animals, numbers and basic commands. I taught my two youngest children when they were two and four and now that they are seven and nine, they still remember what they were taught. If you want to tell your child to quit, walk or sit down try telling them in a different language, I promise that they will think it’s neat and will obey! Below is a video of a language program offered by the Chicakasaw Nation.
I have had the opportunity to travel across the United States and meet with other tribal organizations and Native Americans but I always feel the proudest when I’m here in Oklahoma with our fellow Native Americans.
The opportunities that have been presented to me because I am Native American have been invaluable. I hope that I can impact other Native Americans and provide them with opportunities to learn and grow while also sharing their culture with future generations.
I really admire you for taking an interest in your ancestry and teaching your children some of the language and their history. I too am like you, and have recently taken an interest in my ancestry. My parents didn't say much about our heritage either. I am having a great time asking them questions and them sharing their stories with me about their grandparents and culture. I also joined an ancestry on line family tree that has traced our ancestors all the way to France, Portegual, and Spain! I love to share new stories with my son, and I hope that he shares them with his children and grandchildren. We should all be proud of our heritage and culture. Thank you for sharing yours with me!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your blog. I have always been very interested in my history as well. It was difficult growing up because we did not know "where" my mother's mother was. She had abandoned my mother when she was 1 year old. Interestingly enough, through the internet about 12 years ago and geneology sites I found her! She didn't want to talk to us though. The upside to this story though is that my mom found out she had two more siblings, a brother and sister who she has maintained contact with since.
ReplyDeleteSome people in my family have tried to do a thorough family tree on my father's side. We are part Cherokee and Creek from what they have told me, but not enough to obtain benefits. One day when I have the time, I will still explore it for myself! I may hit you up for tips on doing that.
Tracie