As most generational "Americans" living in this great old "melting pot," my heritage comes from various backgrounds. What I am the "most" of is Potawatomi, if one was to divide themselves in fractions. Which unfortunately is how the U.S. Government regulates tribal people - % of blood quantum. It is what it is....
I've shared about my heritage in many posts, but this one is a good one: Great Grandpa and Grandma Ritchie
My dad is the little one, the other two girls are his sisters, my grandma is behind my dad. My grandma was German. She worked for Connor Lumber as a bookeeper when she met my grandpa Ritchie. My dad grew up on the reservation.
Here he is again. I love that little smerky face - he did this face his whole life. He was fortunate NOT to have to go to a boarding school. An ugly part of history that has now come to a better light is how native children were treated at these "schools." My great grandpa Ritchie was quoted as saying "none of my grandchildren will go to those schools." He had some influence and he petitioned the BIA to hire a teacher for the Forest County Potawatomi children. The Kokomo Reservation School began in 1934 with 20 students (3 were my family).
I did NOT grow up in traditional ways. However, we were raised in tradition. If that makes sense....how we treat one another, our land, how to hunt and gather, garden and fish and respect for all life. Especially those we took to harvest. I heard a "hunting story" - it made me sick! I kept thinking how my dad would not like that! Even Al said it was so disrespectful to the animal. Anway....
I struggled with not looking "native" enough, yet being teased for being "native." Ya....I don't harbor bad feelings or suffer from any trauma...ahahah....
I celebrate my Native American Heritage - rich and full in the knowledge of where I come from - steeped in tradition.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Yes I have read many stories how the native American children were uprooted from their families into these schools. They were treated like second class citizens and were not even allowed to talk in their native language. Such a shame. So many tribes have been lost. Canada has created a legal holiday to remember this. So glad you know some of your heritage. Janice
ReplyDeleteYes, it was terrible! Thanks for the comment. I do know my heritage on both sides.
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