So How Long Have You Been Native?

I've been asked this question a lot lately. I'm not sure why, but it seems like people are more interested in my heritage than ever before. Maybe it's because I'm a writer and my work often explores themes of identity and belonging. Or maybe it's because I'm a woman of color and there's a growing awareness of the challenges that people of color face in society.

So, How Long Have You Been Native?: Life as an Alaska Native Tour Guide

by Alexis C. Bunten

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3011 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	272 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Whatever the reason, I'm always happy to talk about my heritage. I'm proud of my Native American ancestry, and I'm grateful for the rich culture and traditions that I've inherited.

So, how long have I been Native? I've been Native for as long as I can remember. My mother is Native American, and my father is white. I grew up on a reservation in Oklahoma, and I was surrounded by Native culture from a young age.

I learned to speak Cherokee as a child, and I participated in traditional ceremonies and dances. I also learned about the history of my people, and I developed a deep appreciation for our culture and traditions.

When I was in high school, I moved away from the reservation to attend a boarding school. It was a difficult transition, but it also gave me the opportunity to meet other Native students from all over the country. I learned about different tribes and cultures, and I developed a sense of pan-Indianism.

After graduating from high school, I went to college and earned a degree in Native American studies. I continued to learn about my culture and history, and I became involved in activism and advocacy work.

I'm now a writer, and I use my work to explore themes of identity and belonging. I write about the challenges that Native people face in society, and I also write about the beauty and resilience of our culture.

My heritage is a part of everything I do. It shapes my worldview, my values, and my work. I'm proud to be Native, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my culture with others.

The Challenges of Being Native

Being Native is not always easy. We face discrimination and racism on a daily basis. We are also more likely to experience poverty, unemployment, and health problems than non-Natives.

But despite the challenges, I wouldn't trade my heritage for anything. I'm proud of who I am, and I'm committed to working for a better future for my people.

The Beauty of Native Culture

Native culture is rich and beautiful. It is a culture that values family, community, and respect for the environment. We have a strong tradition of storytelling, music, and art.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this culture. It is a culture that has taught me the importance of resilience, strength, and compassion.

I encourage you to learn more about Native culture. There are many resources available online and in libraries. You can also visit reservations and attend powwows.

By learning more about Native culture, you can help to break down stereotypes and promote understanding. You can also help to support Native communities and businesses.

So, how long have I been Native? I've been Native for as long as I can remember. It is a part of who I am, and I'm proud of it.

I encourage you to learn more about Native culture. It is a beautiful and resilient culture that deserves to be celebrated.

So, How Long Have You Been Native?: Life as an Alaska Native Tour Guide

by Alexis C. Bunten

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3011 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	272 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE