To the Editor:
I am proud of my ancestors who lived and died in the Paha Sapa in the Black Hills of South Dakota. From them I came into this world. I am Lakota. I am not "Indian." Although, most often, and sometimes fondly, I am referred to as Native American, at least nowadays ("Debating Indian Mascots," Aug. 9).
In the past we were mostly referred to as "f-n Indians" and were as it was condoned "the only good 'Indian' is a dead Indian." We were dehumanized. We were less than human. It was convenient then so some people could make more and more money. For sure I am Native North American. And proud to be of this great land and proud to be brother to all peoples and son of Mother Earth. Like you, I am a human being.
For all my life I have watched my own family carry on the struggle to be rid of the effects of the old image that made us so vile to those people who wanted to get rid of us -- in any way they could -- exterminate us! Today I watch and work with all peoples -- mostly Native North Americans who just don't seem to be "strong" enough to "make it" here in this civilized healthy society. I work to inspire these people to live free of the ugly effects of self hatred -- shame of being part of a race of people who were so vile and dirty that in some areas of this country -- were hunted to extinction. This is still part of us. We Indians are working hard to assimilate still!
Now we proudly see the fierce faces of our families hoisted high above on flagpoles and in the hands of little flags and banners yet waving. In spite of that, we are so proud to be a part of this -- to see our heritage and the team that represents our great and grand history and our legacy of relationship here. We are represented because we all know it is done in honor of us "Indians" who so fiercely fought for our lives and our way of life and for our children and their mothers. We died en masse fighting to save our way of life and still have the highest mortality rate and suicide rate in this continent! Yes, it was so romantic and exciting to "fight"... just as the Chicago Blackhawks or the Cleveland Indians or the Dartmouth Indians. No! This is something to speak out against! This is sad and a constant reminder of how insensitive we have all become.
Please know that I am proud to be Lakota and that I am kind, loving and peaceful and I pray for the proper image of the original peoples of this country to be honored. Honor yourself America. It is so very important to many of us.
I am not "Indian"! Our tribal names are who we are and mascot is not one of them! Pilamya -- Thank you. Mitakuye Oyasin -- We are all related.
