Monthly Archives: December 2011

In my honest and personal opinion, I believe Using Native Heritage for Personal Gain is wrong and simply a big no-no within our native community.

The word use in this case is meant to illustrate a scenario when someone of native ancestry (whatever the percentage) purposely mentions or exploits his/her heritage in an aggressive manner so they can be allowed to have something or participate in an event they believe is made exclusive to native people.

Now why is this such a big deal? Well, for a number of reasons. For one thing, it makes that person appear more as a vain poser than an actual native descendant — even if they are telling the truth or have honest intentions. For another, it is insulting to the rest of us. But overall, it is a shameful act of dishonoring a very rich, delicate bloodline of invaluable teachings.

I do not mean to offend anyone – especially not those who have aboriginal ancestry, although this rant is directed at those few individuals who carelessly abuse their “rights” in hopes of reaping the benefits and take offense if/when they do not receive what they expect. I say abuse because while it is true that most (not all) natives across Canada and the United States have certain incontrovertible legal rights, there is still quite a difference between being proud of your bloodline and actually being connected to it and by that I refer to putting actual effort into knowing more about oneself and origins.

The second thing these individuals must understand is that we, as a people, do not discriminate or wrongly dismiss anyone in spite or for personal bias — at least, not on a professional level. It is not the native way. Our culture is very open and diverse from communications to tangible resources, which is why you might see many non-native children in native day-cares. Pow-wows welcome all, most sweat lodge ceremonies do too, and even hospitality services such as independent restaurants or gift shops.

But the reality is: sometimes an event or application just doesn’t apply to you — like many other things in life!

For example, say a local native non-profit organization was hosting a business banquet that celebrated the success of a computer camp for youth. The supervisor(s) or the on-site manager attends along with chaperons, perhaps the E.D and all the participants and their families are invited. A list is most likely kept to keep track of how many guests are attending that need food, entertainment, etc. Now, if someone outside of this event decides to join-in for the food or to simply observe and all without permission, they will most likely be questioned at the door or someone will point them out.

“Hey, aren’t I allowed to be here?”
“I’m sorry, but you’re not on the list– unless you have family here or have participated on this project–”
“Well why not? I’m native, too! I have every right!”

… Can you feel how painful it is just to read that kind of protest? I do, too. In fact, I have witnessed a similar instance and the result ended up with the E.D who calmly explained to the instigator that he was in the wrong. In a hypothetical sense, this fiasco could easily be turned around; the event could have been non-native orientated and suddenly a random person showed up expecting to be served simply because he looked like everyone else.

Of course, there are many more complicated occurrences in which someone will take advantage of a situation when exposing their identities. Personally, only in certain circumstances such as crossing the border (status cards in Canada are recognized as passports) or proving identity for tuition payment, a bursary, government papers, etc. is flashing the status card or birth certificate appropriate and acceptable for bragging rights.

The bottom line is: no one should ever, ever use or abuse their native heritage for personal gain, especially not popularity. It makes them look bad, it makes us feel bad, and overall it is just disgraceful. Before blindly walking into these sticky situations it is best to properly educate oneself of what certain rights one is endowed with from birth — this goes for any person from any culture — and it is imperative to understand that being native is not about gaining leeway in life or getting anything for free. Like everyone else, we must earn it.

And, perhaps the most important thing I have to say on this matter is this: be proud of who you are, not vain. Do your research, connect with your tribe or family members and learn all there is to know about your roots, and if you ever feel the need to use your identity, please, use it wisely. Respect and integrity are just some of an honest life’s greatest rewards.

Miigwetch,

- J.