Black Native Americans
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Posted By: Bradley Alexander on April 28, 2020 There are several Blacks that claim to have Native American roots along with there African roots and this group are often described as Black Indians, since we were often told of having indian ancestry meaning the Indigenous people from the Americas. The standard concept of oral history is really the first steps towards gaining some type of recognition, it is the very foundational principle when coupled with honesty and integrity. Knowing the specific tribe is the basic information but it is crucial in re-establishing tribal connection through native community involvement or rising to the level of being enrolled in modern times. There are several levels, the top level being the federal level with federal recognition, as we ease down the paradigm the state level is next and there there are recognized & unrecognized organizations, groups, and interest groups. I started this journey early on, largely beginning at my alma mater SCSU between my studies and self study activities which included watching full episodes of roots when I extracted how Alex Haley interviewed his aunt's which led him to valuable clues to his african journey of discovery. I have been told of having indian ancestry and talked to several of my elders and I am convinced that much of the info that i've embraced, has some merit, enough to urge me to go to Native American powwows, which are tribal gathering that usually include dancing with regalia, food, and education. I have participated by dancing when they invited the audience, and on a higher level also by nothing more than just to sit on my blanket between Native American families when I enjoyed indian fry bread, buffalo burgers, and corn cooked the indian way with the husk on! I observed similaries between some of our black and native American experiences like; food ways and music.Some say sweet potato pie is a Native American gift, don't run me out of here! This might be debatable! Yams are from Africa and and sweet potatoes are from America. I've stuffed myself on food cooked by Liberians so both cultures have something wonderful to offer. I love african spices However, one might need a gallon of water for those fiery peppers. Recently, I joined a black indian tribe where we and admire and to grow together in a nurturing environment with a common tread. I desire to learn more culture learn dance and to educate family and friends on the subject of black indians. Bradley Alexander If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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