The following are responses to the statment concerning the exploitation of Lakota ceremonies. Anyone is free to submit a response to this statement provided you include explicit permission to post the statement to the internet. Each response must be individually processed by the web masters so please be patient if this process takes a little time. We ask that people be respectful in their responses and address the issues and not individual persons. Responses to the Declaration:
War Against Exploiters of Lakota SpiritualityNovember 1, 1997 -- April 12, 1998
Due to the size of the responses I have divided them into smaller sections. You may read the most recent responses below in reverse chronlogy (newest to oldest). There are also archives of comments:
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- from February 6, 1996 to November 11th 1996
Date: Sun, 12 Apr 1998
From: Bernhard Michaelis bernhard@nativechild.com
Subject: New Age responseyou have my permission to post this message
Let me say first, that I fully and wholeheartedly support your declaration of war. It is a first step in the right direction. I am non-native, in fact I am an immigrant from Germany, who has lived and worked on Indian Reservations for 20 years now. I have been given the privilege to actively and regularily attend Native American ceremonies for over a decade . I take part in remote places of the reservation, where most people never even heard of New Age.
Maybe I can offer my own solution to all the non-native responses on this message board:
1. A ceremony can only be understood, practiced (and learned) in the context of its culture of origin. The Tribe or Nation is the sole owner of this ceremony.
2. you have to be, or must have been part of this community (which can also include non-natives), because ceremonies are there to strengthen and solve problems in communities.
3. It takes a commitment of life long learning, if you take part. You never carry it outside of the people that the ceremony belongs to. You understand, that a lot of meaning is transferred during a ceremony in a non-verbal intuitive way. Just one 'native american teacher' will never be able to transfer that meaning to a group consisting of non-natives.It takes a community of people who have the same cultural background to transfer this meaning to an outsider.
I was told, that if I would ever take what I learned and go away with it, that they, the people taught me wrong. I will never break their trust in me. And I believe as long as I'll do that, I'll be alright and will never be denied access to the ceremony, that has become my own way too. It's your sincerety of song and prayer, that the people hear and that they go by.
Throughout history, non-natives have been acculturated into native societies, and it is happening the other way around all the time. But it does not happen over night, and you have to really submerge into and become part of that other culture for a long time.
For many years I lived next door to a "native American Guru' on the Hopi Reservation. I saw people come from all over the world and visit him. I saw the interruption of ceremonies by outsiders on Hopi and I helped uncover the misuse of donations from overseas to the so called traditionalists. I have seen Japanese kids take part in Crow Dog's Sun Dance at Big Mountain,and I am at a loss of words, that this is possible. I will do everything I can, to make Europeans aware of your message. It's much needed - just the physical distance to the native societies here has promoted a very childish exploitation of native American spirituality over there to quite an extend.
Thanks for listening, Bernhard
Bernhard Michaelis bernhard@nativechild.com
Web Site: http://www.nativechild.com
Date: Mon, 06 Apr 1998
From: TateLowanWin TiKaglaEyanka olowan@hotmail.com
Subject: Lakota SpiritualityYou May Post This
From Jenni Runs Close To Lodge (olowan@hotmail.com)
I agree with the declaration of war, totally. As a young Oglala Lakota woman I have watched and heard of different white men and women who have used our spiriuality for gain. I laugh at the stupid names that they call themselves, and I make fun of them when they pound their fake drums and sing in falsetto voices. I notice that none of you want to help Native Americans with the very real problems of alcoholism and poverty. Everyday of my life I try to live in a good way, accepting all of the restrictions etc. placed on me. I take it seriously, it is not something I play with, or DABBLE in, because that is the way I was raised. I cringe when I hear of Native American men and women who have sold the rites that our grandmother's and grandmother's hid and practiced in secret for so many years, never for gain, but for the people. Many familes continued to practice ceremonies when they were outlawed, keeping them alive.
Yes, God does not percieve us as different, but he also appeared to us in many different forms, I don't think he showed up in Europe as Wakan Tanka. If you are lost, why should you come to us to 'find' yourself? We didn't 'lose' you. Perhaps many of you need to look deep into the European history and uncover your own salvation. What else do you want from us? You've taken almost everything, now you try to rape us of our souls. Crazy Horse spent his entire life fighting the white man, he hated the white man, and with good reason. He knew that the white man would bring destruction and death. I wonder what he would think of all the white people trying to be like him, and for you who sell your souls, I would not want to be you when you have to face him when you die.
Jenni Runs Close To Lodge
Date: Mon, 06 Apr 1998
From: UNZE KSAPA UNZEKSAPA@aol.com
Subject: Exploitation of Lakota CeremoniesPermission given for this note to be posted.
Growing up in Cuba where I was born I was taught about an indian leader called Hatuey,he led his people against the Spaniards,he stood for bravery and dignity.When he was finally captured and just before he was burned at the stakes by the Spaniards for his "crimes",a priest approached him and asked him if he would be baptised so he could go into The Kingdom of Heaven.Hatuey asked if Spaniards(since they were all baptised) would also go there,when the priest answered "yes",Hatuey refused baptism because,he said "I would not want to be with these people in the next world".
I agree there is a terrible exploitation of Lakota Ceremonies and Beliefs for profit and also due to the spiritual bankruptsy of this land.I have never participated in any ceremonies or asked to be included, which I believe would be rude and pretentious of anyone to do,I do however believe in and pray in the way of The Pipe and try to follow the Canku Luta,I will not ask anyone to accept me or give me their support,I only hope that ,like Hatuey,in the next world I will be with the Lakota,even if outside the circle,I do not want to go to where Christians or any other group will be,they dont make any sense to me. I believe that The Great Mystery manifested itself in different ways in different places and all forms of prayers are valid,but just as you choose where you want to live in this world we have the choice,by the way we pray, to choose how we live and where we live in the next place.Who is correct on this subject? None of us will know for sure until after we cross over.
Mitak' oyasin.
Date: Fri, 03 Apr 1998
From: Nelson6653 Nelson6653@aol.com
Subject: Response to declarationPermission is given for posting.
Having read the declaration has raised some concerns for me.
The term non-indian is another degrading racial comment used by this society to cause separation. People seem to loose track of what the creator has told us, Mitake Oyasin, all my relations, black nation, red nation, yellow nation, and white nation. We are all one nation, the two legged, we are not europian, asian, african, native american, pick one, any one. Any view other wise is not living in the old way, as an earth walker. Living in a sacred manner is a way of life not a religion. Religions are an excuse to be able to walk away.
If people are so concerned with 'wannabes' writing books and selling the old ways, the focus should go to the people who are writing about the old ways, not the people who are buying them. Look among your own.
From the declaration. "momentous obsticle in the struggle for an adequate public appraisal of the legitimate political, legal, and spiritual needs of real Lakota people." I have some questions regarding this. Who ever lives a spiritual life for public appraisal how are you serving your people and the creator? I understand the needs of people but what are 'real' Lakota people? Are there fake Lakota people?
In some final thoughts if we as a race of humans can not learn to stop separating ourselves from each other we will never become one people and mend the sacred red hoop. For the people who are involved in unsacred ceremonies, it is the creators right to deal with them not mine. I am just a man. I do not have the right to judge how a man walks his path. As soon as I concern myself how someone else is walking his path, if Im not trying to help him, I've stepped off of my path and the creator will deal with me for MY actions. Look back in time, the great warrior Crazy Horse used a sacred ceremony for a vision of war, the creator dealt with him, not his people. Thank you for taking the time to hear my words. May we all meet on the sacred red road.
Mitake Oyasin.
Date: Wed, 01 Apr 1998
From: mosind@openmail.irex.ru
Subject: Lakota WarsWe, Russian "non-Indians who have organized themselves into imitation 'tribes', assigned themselves make-believe 'Indian names'", would like to know, whether we are a target of the declared war.
As we are Orhtodox Christians, we do not conduct nor take part in Indian sacred rituals, though some other Russian Indianists did fast and sweat, never trying to conduct sundances or something like that.
Some of us are fans of Siouan crafts, others learn the songs, study languages, history... We all LOVE Indians, and wouldn't like to be called exploiters/expropriators of anything
So far it's been impossible in Russia to make money on the interest to Indians. Rather, it was an uncheap way to get misunderstood by the relatives and neighbors.
So we feel that we have the right to ask: Was our life an EXPLOITATION of Indian traditions? What is the difference between EXPROPRIATION of traditions and their ASSIMILATION? Which tradition is not SACRED? Who is to judge whether my imperfect Lakhota pronunciation is an abuse and misrepresentation of L/D/N traditions?
Yes, we understand your righteous fury over phony rites. But the only way out is to define, what is CANONICAL rite and to anathematize every sacrilegy, that is, to say: This is NOT a Lakota ritual.
But if you extend your natural monopoly over culture, language, history, names, etc... - this is racism.
As you can not urge every Indian to study his language and culture, you can not prevent non-Indians from doing this for him.
...We also believe that it is possible for every man to be 100% Indian and 100% Russian, and... 100% Christian, but it's another story (we welcome everybody to e-mail us: mosind@openmail.irex.ru).
OK to publish.
Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1998 From: Bill Webb webbs83@server.litchfieldil.com
Ray, Sorry ,You Have my permission to post my message
I have read this declaration twice, and most of the responses.A good many of the responses seem to be sincere in their belief and fear that you include them in the group you have gone to war against, however I did not see this spelled out in any portion of the declaration. I hope I'm correct in the assumption that this is not your intention.
As for myself, I do carry Lakota blood in me, something (I"m sorry to say) I didn't find out until I was a teenager. My grandfather wasn't around very often in my early childhood, but as a teenager after my father, his son, died I went to Colorado to spend some time with him. He told me of my Indian blood ,it seems he was 1/2 Lakota. I also found that I have some of one of the eastern tribes blood on my father's mother's although a very small amount and she doesn't remember what her mother said the tribe was. I just found this out a couple of months ago and she's 85, so I guess she has a right to forget now and then.
Anyway, I'm sorry I drifted a little.
What I'm getting at is I was seventeen before I found What Kind of heritage I had and because of the disgust and mistrust with which I saw the tribal members of your nation display towords the socalled white indians and big city wannabes back then I didn't think anyone would want to bother teaching a seventeen year old 1/8th wannabe, so I missed out on this part my heritage. I'm 42 now and although I have always felt the pull of the old ways, I've accepted my plight. Hhowever, I have a little sister who is 26 and wants very much to learn all she can and becaus of location, we live in cental Illinois, and lack of resources the only place she has to turn is the library and local college classes. So, taking your beliefs out of colleges hurts your people too. I am a friend, but if anyone ever tried to stop my baby sister from seeking knowledge of herself they would find I too would make a hell of a bad enemy.
I agree with everything you say in your declaration about the descretion of sacred artifacts, grounds, and all other sacred objects,as well as the sacriledge of misuse and mockery of your beliefs. I believe though that to help stop this ,instead of keeping it all hidden you need to help police how it is taught in the colleges and educate people, through the media and any other means at your disposal, as to what to watch out for , so that they can help squash these bugs that would take some thing precious and degrade it so sorry this is so long , it started out to be a quick note but sometimes words can't hold your feelings very well.
By whatever name we call him, may the good Lord smile upon you all!
Bill Webb
"webbs83@server.litchfieldil.com"
Date: Sun, 08 Mar 1998
I give my permission to post this response.
From: Jim Guercioni LightningBolts@worldnet.att.net
Subject: Declaration of War
Hello my name is Jimmie, I have read the declaration!
I also disagree 100% to the mockery,exploitation and desecration of the native beliefs and religous ceremonies.
I just want to express my anger to and at anybody, government or any religous cults.
I believe the Lakota were awesome people, had great beliefs and practices. It is and was christianity that has tried to soil the natives roots. Today everybody is trying to it.
Here is something I heard and it is the truth "The White Man came in the name of GOD". And what did they do, they murdered for their so called GOD. For what, because they were scared of the native beliefs.
I do know the natives were fightning long before we arrived here, but they the all basically belived together in their purpose, beliefs and practices.
I just wish all these wannabes would stop their pratices and let the true people teach and pratice the way it should be done. The right and truthful way.
Since I was a boy I have been fascinated with the Lakota and I believe in them.
"There are many things to be shared with the Four ColorsI have nothing more to say for now. Thank you for hereing me!
of humanity in our common destiny as one with our
Mother Earth. It is this sharing that must considered with
great care by the Elders and the medincine people who
carry the Scared Trusts, so no harm may come to people
through ignorance and misuse of these powerful forces."
-Resolution of the Fifth Annual Meeting of the Traditional Elders Circle, 1980.
Date: Sat, 14 Mar 1998
From: Dalfreeves Dalfreeves@aol.comI explicitly give my permission for use of all or any part of this statement.
I am not a Native American. I do however feel called to and drawn to the spiritual practices as I have read of them and experienced them. I have smoked pipe and have one as a teacher. I have set sweat and I been on a vision quest and am now appreticing to lead one. I do not do this as a Native American. It is not my intention to steal or pervert the Spiritual Beliefs or the Native American. I Do Not Intend Disrespect nor to Imitate. What I do intend is to use what I find in all of life to the good of life. There is a rich heritage and tradition within the Native American beliefs and Spirituality that attract me. The return to nature. The honoring or the Whole of Life. I suppose I would be called a New Age Freak. However or What ever that means. My attraction is based on what is available. I deplore that Christians came and did not offer there beliefs but imposed the on the Native Peoples of this country and around the world. But I have not problem if they are shown and offered. If Native Peoples don't want their beliefs misused then it seems that to offer to teach those who are drawn so that we may all hold sacred in the proper way. I offer apologies for offending but, again stress that this is not my intention and that what I use of these traditions and beliefs have helped me greatly to connect with a spiritual belief that I can relate to as a woman and as a human who hungers for connection to the Elements and Directions and to much else that I have yet to discover. I believe that because we live in a land that is the place that the native peoples walked upon and practiced all of there beliefs, the energy and nature of the land calls us to the practices of these beliefs. I also wonder if any people regardless or their beliefs can have the whole truth that is theirs alone...It is just a question. And if what I do benefits me being a better more loving human where is the harm? Did not the Native peoples take out of necessity the beliefs of the Christians and hide their own beliefs within the frame work to hold on to them because it was outlawed by the white Christians. I long to continue an ongoing dialogue and learning about all of this, I do not want to be the enemy.
Date: Fri, 13 Mar 1998 From: Patricia Reis preis@merritt.edu
You may post this response.
I am no one.
I am every one.
I am no thing.
I am every thing.
You are dark
I am light.
Yet I am you
and You are me.
Please find in your heart
a place to
forgive us
the pain
we have caused you
and your people.
When we ALL cross over
how well we LOVE
our self and each other
will light our soul's
journey.
This life is for LOVE
and the healing of our
wrong doings. Please accept
me and know I am sorry for
your pain. I can do no more
to ease your life. I only
pray to the Spirit we all
see the LIGHT and LOVE for
I am you and you are me.
Date: Thu, 12 Mar 1998
From: Markderder Markderder@aol.com
Subject: Declaration of WarAs an American of Armenia descent whose grandparents came to the United States to escape the massacres of Armenians by the Turkish government, I am upset by this declaration of war for several reasons. First if it is the goal of Indians to drive all white men from this land that goal is unrealistic--white men are not going to leave this land in the near future. I think a realistic goal is for Indians to work for reparations for the land that was taken from them, for their fundamental human and economic rights and for acceptance and space for them to practice whatever cultural practices they deem proper and appropriate. This sort of political goal will require many allies from non-indian people. Declarations of war against those people who in many ways might be potential allies seems absurd to me. Although much of the new age neo-shamanistic practice may indeed be just fantasy it is harmless fantasy compared to the machinations of the conservative religious right who are the enemies of all of us. Also the ecological sense that comes from some of these new age practices could be politically usefull in terms of gaining ground for environmental laws and environmental awareness that could lead to more radical political solutions for all people. Declarations of war when they can lead to no benifits and no victories are fruitless and childish acts of emotional frustration. Shamanism is a universal human religion--all of our ancestors practiced forms of shamanism and no single race owns a monopoly on shamanistic practices and this includes the Indian people. I have been interested in cross cultural shamanism since I read Mircea Eliades book on the subject many years ago. Shamanism speaks to something deep within the minds and hearts of all people when they are not blinded by religious and philosophical or scientific dogma. To say that non-indians should not explore shamanic consciousness because Indians are exploited is to say, for instance, that no Turkish people should be allowed to read the Bible because Turks committed genocide against the Armenian people who happened to be Christians. All people should read the Bible and the Koran in my view as well as the sacred texts of all religions and we should begin the process of finding out what is true for all human beings and what works for all human beings. Cultural property rights is a ridiculous concept--culture owns and forms people groups of people don't own cultures. We are all too concerned with so called property rights intellectual and otherwise, and not concerned enough with fundamental human rights of all people--including of course the human rights of Indians. It is time for a universal human culture that nurtures and supports all people--science provides a common ground of communication between all cultures and now people all over the world are opening up to new cultural forms. This will not stop because of any declarations of war. Non-Indians will continue to explore shamanic states of consciousness and will find teachers from all over the world willing to teach them. No appeal to traditional purity will stop that. This is a lost cause and a lost war--Indians do not need any more losing wars. We should fight wars that can be won. Fighting a war for an economic bill of rights for all people--medical care with choice for all people, jobs that are meaningfull and supportive for all people, that is a hard war that could be won if races don't fight each other. We should look to our common human ground while respecting differences--not declaring cultural warfare on each other. The entire legacy of the human race all of its accomplishments and all of its crimes belong to all of us. May we all find a way to peace and justice.
I give permission for this to be posted--thanks.
Date: Sat, 07 Feb 1998 (lost in the shuffle)
From: jrp05@gnofn.org
Subject: Let the Tbirds do their job! Let WBCW's will be done!Greetings, dear friends and enemies:
I've thought and written a lot about the ideas in this "Declaration of War". But I've not put it here, for this is, after all, a declaration of war, not a call to discussion. But now I must. You may print this.
The coming of Miracle, the White Buffalo, in 1994, is widely regarded as a sign that it is now time for Native Americans to share the sacred knowledge. If this is true, then it is not a matter of what we (Natives or non-Natives) want. It is a matter of what -She- wants. And a matter of what the Earth needs. And a matter of what time it is.
This is a time of crisis (= danger + opportunity). Mother Earth, and much of what lives upon her, is in grave danger due to the errors of human ways, especially the whiteman's ways. And the opportunity: the Peoples of the Earth are growing stronger, while some among the whiteman (especially the women and the young) are at last showing signs of growing able to understand and take care of the Sacred! (Never mind the "newagers"; if you want to see some good signs of understanding, see the environmentalist, human rights, and animal rights movements, especially local frontlines actions.)
Some say this sharing is all a big mistake, a misunderstanding of the White Buffalo Prophecy. And it looks to me like some very big mistakes have been made in some certain sharings that have been done. I hear some have gone to war over Her Name! In fact, I've done this myself, before I saw what I'm about to say next --
To the Thunderbeings God has given the work
to protect the Sacred and correct sacred errors!
To us humans God has given the work
to bring justice and compassion and beauty to our world!If those who share The Sacred make any mistakes or do anything wrong, the Thunderbeings -will- do their job! But if you or I try to do the Thunderbeings' job for them, the Thunderbeings will then have to correct you or me!
I know! I've stood in their place, and "enjoyed" their "attention"! Now I know why it is said, "Judge not lest you be judged."
Please, dear friends and enemies -- Let the Thunderbeings do their job, protecting the Sacred. Be patient with them, as they are patient with us. Their time is (not) our time. Their ways are (not) our ways. But rest assured: the T's do their job just fine. I know. I've seen it.
Please, my honorable enemies, be careful about going to war against (what may well be) the will of White Buffalo Woman. Remember the first young man went to her in the wrong way. Ignorant as he was, he saw she was beautiful and desirable. He lost his flesh, the part of him that mistook her. But he got to keep his bones, the part of him that lasts forever. What if we fail, even, to see that she -- and her way -- are desirable and beautiful? Earth Crisis, my dear friends and enemies!
For those who feel they must go to war -- there are laws to be upheld, elders and children to be tended, vows to be kept, prisoners to be freed, sick people to be healed, lands to be protected, lost to be found, food to be grown, wounds to be healed, sobriety to be maintained, families to be held together, houses to be built and repaired. Anyone, of any race or age or gender, who does things like this, is a warrior!
Selling Sacred items, abusing teachings and ceremonies for dark purposes or personal gain, etc: these are sacriledge, so they are under the care of the Thunderbeings. Sports mascots and media abuses: that's a human affair, rather than a matter of how humans relate to God. So those close to those issues can choose their battles with care.
It is sad to hear of bad sweats, compromised Sundances, ceremonies for sale, etc. I've spoken of such things myself, before I knew better. But now I'd like to give some cheap advice, to anyone who cares to take it:
If you see someone commit (what appears to be) a sacriledge, talk to him quietly, if you can. Maybe it is not a sacriledge at all; different people have different ways, and no one really has a right to tell anyone else how to relate to God! If there really is something wrong, try and find it in your heart, to pray for him and especially for the innocent ones whom he leads astray. If you and/or he have (or claim to have) any connection with a tribe, it may be good to bring someone from the tribe who is respected, to help work things out. If none of this works or none of this is possible, just keep away, lest you share his error and his correction. But talking to others outside of the situation does no good! It spreads a lot of heat and coldness, but no light. What's more, if you attack him (criticise, harrass, whatever) you may wind up standing between him and the Thunderbeings, when his correction comes! Don't tangle with someone who is about to be struck by lightning! I know -- I've been there, done that, and got a T-bird!
There's more I'd like to say, but I've said enough for here and now. Replies welcome. Email correspondances welcome. Please do it sober!
Thanks for maintaining this site and this discussion.
Peace Out --
Dee aka "Medicine Dog"
Date: Fri, 20 Feb 1998
From: "Dale E. & Kathleen K. Lehman" lehket@erols.comAmen! The invaders stole everything they could from the natives, and the misguided appropriation of their religion is an attack more serious and more insidious than anything perpetrated at Sand Creek or in the Black Hills. The plastic medicine men must be stopped.
I freely grant my permission to publish this statement on the internet.
--Kathleen Lehman
Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998
From: larock@midmo.net (Frank & Becky LaRock)
Subject: warYou have permisssion to print my response.
Some fourteen years ago I was a director for a small museum in Nebraska. Wishing to prepare an exhibit involving sacred articles of the Omaha, I wrote to the tribal council for help. I was directed to individuals and through visiting with them I met an Omaha man who was studying under a Lakota Medicine Man. He had on several occations invited me to meet with the Lakota Medicine Man. The time was not right at the moment of invitation. Some time later a friend of a friend asked for a bibliography of medicine ways among the Indians. The friend of a friend had a relative who was dieing of Lou Gerigs disease. I went to my Omaha friend and as luck would have it the Lakota Medicine Man was there. I was told to forget about the books and come live the way. They were interested in helping my friends relative. Yes, we participated in swet lodge and healing ceremonies. No I am afraid my friends relative did no live. He was in the last stages of his disease. He, for a time followed the way as he was taught. But, he like many of us expected a quick cure. He appeared to be getting better. He had already been to faith healers in Kentucky and the Edgar Case Institue. His muscule control increased, but he fell off. I continued to learn however and for the next few years I continued my trips to the Omaha and later the Pine Ridge and Rosebud reservations, accompaning the Omaha and Lakota Medicine Men.
Some three or four years after my initial introducation to these ways I was gathering medicine with the Lakota Medicine Man, in the spring. He handed me a pebble and asked why I did not have any children. I then related a story which I had not spoke of to anyone in our cicle of friends.
My wife Becky and I had for the previous three years, tried to have a child. My wife at that time was a nurce for OBGYN doctors located in Omaha, Nebraska. They specialized in infertility, and gave lectures around the world. We had gone through numerous testing, been given various fertility drugs, and were finally told that we could not naturally concieve due to chemical imbalances which could not be breached. The winter before we had stopped taking the drugs, in order to clean out our system. We planned to have the doctors do the impregnating, and if that failed then test tube. I told this story to the Medicine Man that spring when he asked. He told me he could help if I wished.
I was all for the opportunity, but was unsure of how Becky would feel about it. Each time I had come back from the reservation the doctors would joke with me about hob nobing with my Indians and proceed with the local Indian jokes. I took it in stride, trying to educate them on what I was learning. They ultimately suggested there was something in the pipe I was smoking, other than tabbaco. Or allude to new wave religion.
Becky, though not a participant in my trips to follow the Medicine Men, was always interested in what I had experienced. Also, she was just a bit desperate to get pregnant. I'm sure she was becoming jaded by what we had gone through following the white medicine ways. She decided to join me. We proceed to the Omaha Reservation, ironically enough, on Fathers Day weekend.
We went through four days of swet lodge and healing ceremonies.
Upon her return to work the doctors and other nurces at the clinic would joke with my wife. They would do such things as run their hands accross her lower back and say oh, your overies are warm maybe you are pregnant, ha, ha. And others besides.
Just short of our upcoming vacation, the first of July, Becky knew she was coming up on the time of her moon and was going to use some drugs to hurry it along so as not to be uncompfortable on our vacation. On a Saturday at work she did a urine test, it came up positive. The doctors and the nurces said it was impossible for her to be pregnant. The tests all say so. There must be something wrong with this test. So, they got out a new test strip and did the test and again it came up positive. Still they did not believe, saying Beckys' hormones must be messed up. So they took blood and sent it off to the lab. It too came back positive. I was to meet Becky for lunch, as I was in town giving a talk at a musuem, on quilts. Anyway, all the doctors and the nurces came up to me and apologized for all their jokes and asked what had happened on that reservation. We explained.
During our vacation Becky started spotted bleeding. After returning home she had an examination and it was found that our baby had not seated itself and she had a fifty fifty chance of spontaneous abortion. Needless to say (but I will) I didn't buy the doctors evaluation. I went to see the Lakota Medicine Man, received some medicine and other directions. We used the midicine and followed the directions. Becky then had another examination and it was found that the child had seated properly, all in about a week. The doctors were taken aback.
If the Medicine Man had not offered to help lead us through the Lakota Medicine Ways, I would not have the happy, healthy, beautiful eleven year old daughter I now have. Some three years later, we decided we would like another child. We had moved to another state, we had kept some contact, but I had not participated as I had in the past in the Lakota ways. We discussed when we could go to the reservation for another ceremony, and ended up putting all on hold. A few weeks later Becky found she was pregnant. I called the Medicine Man and before I could tell of the news he told me that my next child would be a boy to teach me humility. How did he know? How did he know I did not and was trying to have children the first time?
While Becky was pregnant with our daughter Lee (Alysia), I attended a Sun Dance conducted by the Lakota Medicine Man. During the days preceding the dance we visited friends and relatives on the Pine Ridge Reservation. At one house, there were many young Lakota men. One approached me and asked if I was athro? I told him no. He then asked what I was doing there. I told him that at this time, at this moment this is where I belonged. He asked if was there to tell the Lakota all that was wrong with them and what they could do to improved themselves, and then leave as other whites have done? I told him no, I was there to learn, and that yes tommorow or the next day or the next year I may be gone somewhere else. That I have traveled to different places all my life and that likely I will go somewhere else. He accepted my answer, I believe, because he knew I was being honest.
Also during this time I sat in a swet lodge and though I do not speak nor understand much Lakota, I could tell something had been said that was not very nice. After the swet lodge a healing ceremony was held. As is the case a feast was held afterward. The Lakota Medicine Man asked me to help him serve. As I was about half way through serving the women and he was serving the men again I got the impression that something was said. I asked the Lakota Medicine Man later what had transcribed. During the swet lodge, a Lakota who had just come from Crow Dogs Paradise, where a Sun Dance was held asked what this white man is doing here. The Medicine Man told him that the medicine is for all men not just red. He told the Lakota that I would not run from the lodge because my spirit was good. At the feast one of the men had told the Medicine Man that we are men here, there are plenty of women to serve us. The Medicine Man told him that it is little to serve the woman for all they do for us there are only two men here him and me.
Now Sam Movescamp and Oliver Saunsusee will probable say I used to many words here to describe why I am glad I was able to benifit from the Lakota way, but then I'm white all over and not a man of a few words. Yes white all over as that white guys wife told him when he was going to give away a four point Hudson Bay blanket after having fasted for four days. She told him, do you know how much that cost and besides you're not Indian, you're white all over.
I owe my daughter and my sons lives to the Lakota Medicine Way. If Sam Movescamp and Oliver Saunsusee had been at war then I would not have benifited, as I am white all over.
I still put out my ties and speak to grandfather. I teach my children about what I have learned from these Medicine men. They may not be able to understand all that I tell them now, but they will. I will also be taking them to the reservations someday to meet with and learn from Sam and Oliver.
Questions, you will find me at larock@midmo.net
All My Relations
Francis S. LaRock
Date: Thu, 12 Feb 1998
From: WHallame@aol.comI give my permission for you to post this response. I ama temporary user so please don't bother to use the e-mail address.
I agree with most of the declaration. I guess I am torn because I am a non- indian who has searched through the family tree endlessly hoping to discover some tie to a people whom I have admired since I was five. I don't know what draws me and I can't ignore it. I don't believe what my christian upbringing taught me and found great comfort in the words of Lame Deer and Black Elk, as well as others. I would consider it a great honor to learn the sacred ways, but have no one to teach me properly. Therefore, I do not go to or perform sacred ceremonies, or create or use sacred things such as a pipe or sweat lodge. I try to follow what is in my heart with prayers and respect. I hope this is not offensive to anyone. I would truly be lost if the elders had not shared their knowledge in writings and now as my children begin their paths in life, I would like them to at least know that there is a creator that does not judge them by their skin. Thank you for hearing me. I would exchange my heritage if I could, but I guess I am stuck being white on the outside. I guess we have to make do.
Date: Sat, 21 Feb 1998 From: rickster rickster@intrstar.net
Subject: Response concerning the war against all persons perceived to desecrate traditional Lakota, Dakota and Nakota religious beliefs.To Whom it may concern,
I am not a Lakota, my Grandmother can trace her decendants to King Philip of the Wampanoaughs. However, since I was a small boy, I have always been in love with the lifeways and traditions of the Lakota people and their struggle for survival as a people.
I was constantly reminded by the very actions of those great people of how one became a Lakota. You could be born one, you could marry one, you could be captured and raised as one or you could adopt their ways of life and be accepted as one. When any of those occured, you ceased to be what you were and became a Lakota.
I have been tutoring myself in the Lakota language, (as their are no native speakers for me to draw from), I truly love the Lakota traditional flute and drum music and constantly strive for that inner peace that allowed so many of the Greats to become the prophets and leaders of their people (not that I ever believe I will acheive the same levels). I know that in itself will not "make" me Lakota, but, I will not turn aside from my quest which is to one day, hand my Pipe to an elder of the Lakota Nation and ask to be adopted. How could I or anyone learn of the great wealth of knowledge and inspiration that is available through the very teachings we have had war declared on us for learning?
Is Black Elk one of those fake shamans? He was very adamant that the Lakota way was for all people, white, yellow, black and red. How better else to return the land to how it use to be, than to have everyone walking the Red Path?
I realize that there will always be those few who take advantage as do some TV evangelists for the Christian faith. But, a theme is emerging here, similar to the early Christian years, convert or die (although, this is slightly slanted in the other direction, it is the same mentality). We all know now, that whether called God, Allah, or Wakan Tanka, he never aspired to that philosophy.
Pilamaya PAD
Date: Mon, 02 Feb 1998
From: RRigli@aol.comHello
My name is Lori and I am non-native. I whole-heartedly agree that mockery, exploitation for financial gain, and desecration of religious ceremonies (of any religion) is appalling. I also agree that perpetrators of such acts should be, at the very least, exposed and "called on the carpet" so to speak, if legal or civil action is not applicable. Here though is my question: Is it possible, in your estimation, for a non-native to learn of, understand, respect, and live within the tenets of your religion, or are you asserting the belief that any non-native is incapable of such respect and devotion to your religion by virtue of their bloodlines. I do not know anything about Lakota beliefs other than to be aware that respect for the earth that bears us all is prominent. I have the utmost respect for anyone's belief system and would not presume to mock or practice what I do not have intimate knowledge of. I would hope, though, that if someone sought such knowledge with an open heart and pure intentions, that they would not be denied the opportunity simply due to their ethnic background. It seems to me that this would be spiritually shooting yourself in the foot and missing an opportunity to keep your true spiritual beliefs alive by teaching what the charlatans and wannabes can't; The truth.
Sincerely,
Lori R. Sarabia
I give permission for this message to be posted in your forum. Thank-you for the opportunity to learn.
Date: Mon, 02 Feb 1998
From: amc amc@cablenet-va.comYou have my permission to post this response and my E-mail Address in response to the Declaration of War by the Lakato Souix.
On one hand I heartily support the declaration...but wish the word war would not be used...!
I myself reported to "AIM" the American Indian Movement the SweatLodge practices of a very dark pagan group in Winston-Salem a few years ago. At the time i found out a certain man and his wife were sending out invitations for people to join in for a "Native American SweatLodge" located at a New Age styled retreat center. However this was actually a Sweatlodge run by members of a Wiccan Coven, and the couple were and are practicing a very dark medicine. Unknowing..."Wannabees" attended and found themselves engaging in a bastardized SweatLodge. Then...to top this off...I was doing a Professional Video Production at a United Methodist Church conference for native Americans near Cherokee, NC...some of the people, including teenagers went to a Cherokee Tribe sponsored sweatlodge....for men and women together in which people were allowed to enter and leave at will..and to re-enter. Amazing.
However, I too have had a rather negative experience that taught me a valuable lesson. I was asked to Produce, shoot and edit a special Native American Educational and Cultural Awareness Video in North Carolina, under the assistance of a close friend who is the Dir. of Native American Education for a large school system. When the video was viewed and a number of traditional Native Americans found out a non-Indian actually did the video it was rejected. So all those hours of hard work and Love on my part fell apart. However when my friend introduced it as his video...applause and honors.
Hey...What gives...? Can't a sincere White Person reach out and give assistance when asked...I in fct did all that work for free, cost me money in fact. Well...no more...I'll let others do the work from now on. And as for all the White Wannabees...I'm not one of them. Also...this winter I'm not helping the Lakota People as I did last year. A special fund-drive was headed up in North Carolina to help a number of communities during the harsh winter...but the elders said the aid must be sent so as not to let anyone know a white person sent it...and yet the elders or government leaders it turns out were stealing the food, clothes etc...So as i say...Let he who is without sin throw the first stone.
Jim Waters
sorry...I haven't a hite Wannabee Indian Name to use!
Date: Tue, 13 Jan 1998
From: Adam Whitehawk whitehawk23@hotmail.comYou have my permission to post this.
I have read the declaration....One can wonder for many days who does not understand where it is coming from. I alone have seen some of the things in the declaration...they are sad things to see...I have no bad things to say of it and totally support it...It seems to me everybody is using the Lakota way these days...When will all of this end? We do not desacrate anyone elses way of life...Should we just give up everything that is sacred to us? No, it must end sometime. They have taken everything else from us, why should we give up our way of life too? and just let them ruin everthing we are? The white man has his christian ways, and it is mostly him who is trying to destroy our sacred ceramonies. Someone goes to a powwow, talks to a couple Indians, maybe even plays a drum, what, then they for some reason think they are Indian too and have a right to know of our ways also. When we are not considered savages and heathens by most of the population then everyone is Indian...? Wakan tanka is my god, Cetan lutah is my protector and who.....
Part of message pending-- lost in a Eudora crash!!!
Date: Wed, 10 Dec 1997
From: hominid@kearney.net (Allen Gross)Please Post.
Greetings,
Has not there been enough anger, and warring to last 'our' planet for all of eternity? The nobility of a man is defined by his actions, not by the desires of others. It seems apparent to me that the Great Spirit should have the final say in who is called, not the people.
I recently read "Building Bridges Beneath the Sacred Tree," by Louis Two Ravens Irwin. I was humbled by his depth of insight, and understanding; perhaps you should read it as well.
I too, am Native American, I am also Native Earth, and Universe.
Walk in Balance.
Allen
~~~~~~~~~~~~ ;->
hominid@usa.net
Date: Sat, 03 Jan 1998
From: LimeyJoe LimeyJoe@aol.com
Subject: Lakota spiritualityAlthough I am not a Native American, I cannot help but express outrage at any person exploiting the religious beliefs and practices of any people. The Lakota are a great people and their beliefs and practices are deserving of respect by all.
You have my permission to post this on your message board.
Date: Sat, 03 Jan 1998
From: Laconiglio Laconiglio@aol.com
Subject: response to war declaredYou have permission to print my response.
I have been thinking long and hard about the statements made, and can fully understand why the spiritual leaders would take this stance. However I would ask that they consider people such as me, who have found great comfort in the Native teachings. While I might offend one of the authors of this page (I noticed S.J. after one of the names) I need to explain why the teachings work for me. I cannot accept the Judeo-Christian teachings of the Bible that say we were put here to dominate all the creatures. I believe in my heart of hearts that we are one with the four-legged, winged, and even stone people. I cannot go to my own culture's elders because I am of Italian heritage, and all their teachings were lost to the Catholic Church. There is no one left to teach me.
While I firmly believe that just because I witnessed the Mass a million times, I could not go out and purchase a chalice, and immitate the ceremony, and still walk in integrity, any more than I should go out and by a pipe and try to conduct my own circle. But I have been blessed to find a woman who has studied many years with Lakota elders at Pine Ridge, who has shared teachings of Wakan Tanka with me. This pattern may be what started all the anger, but I am so grateful to participate. It fills my heart with peace. And my prayers have been answered when I call upon the Great Spirit. Why would they be, if I should not be allowed to know these ways, as a white? These teachings of how to live on the Great Mother, seem more right to me than anything I learned in the 30 years as a Catholic. Please know that many of us come not as "New Agers" but with aching hearts. Thank you for listening. La Coniglio.
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 1997
From: Leonard Young redhawk@ncn.net
Subject: ReligionsHello,
May I suggest this before allowing the native relgions being taught or viewed by any one but another Indian. I suppose one can come up with excuses for doing so. I would support such a move if the following conditions were met. Have a all effort to have these passed as laws to make things fair and equal
For every subject taught on native religions, a law placed on the books at a federal level that tribes or bands of Indians being studied or taught that they be allowed to practice free and legal in what ever state or such courses are taught. If your going to take then give back. Do not implant thoughts of the Indians as pagons or any sub stardard point of view. Show respect for the tribe or band you wish to teach about. In other words help make legal what you may be destroying or causing one to think of us as pagons ect. We do not do this to the anglo people.
If your going to dig up our people for study then let us dig one of your to put on display too. Dig up my grandfather then let me dig up yours and have him on dislpay. We can be morbid too.
Last settle the conflict coming from all the religions here in this country. And when you have done this maybe you have a liitle bit of right to study us. The whiteman brought us two things that have should have never been allowed. Alchol and the Bible. Clean up your own back yards before you come into ours.
Thank you
Hi,
Post it on the wb or anywhere you want. Thank you
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 1997
From: Wbandjp Wbandjp@aol.comPlease feel free to use this response, if you feel it is appropriate.
I certainly understand the exasperation of the authors of the declaration, but at the same time, I am unclear as to exactly what it is they're protesting. By exploitation, do you mean the sale (for money) of pipestone, charging admission to pow-wows, sweatlodges, etc., or do you refer to any adoption of any aspect of Lakota religion and spirituality by non-Lakota? If you mean the former, I entirely agree. if you mean the latter, I cannot agree.
Some who call themselves Christians, (or Muslims, or Buddhists, etc.) would tell you that there is only one path to God and to the truth, that their belief system is the only legitimate one. It seems to me that there are as many paths as there are souls. I myself am a devout Catholic. Yes, I know the atrocities my church has commited in the past, but that is the doing of cruel people who didn't understand the beliefs they claimed to follow. Unfortunately, such people exist in all forms of belief, as exemplified by the New-age rent-a-shamans who keep popping up.
I have found that trying to understand the beliefs of others has helped me to be more Christian in the truest sense of the word. If I can find truth in the teachings of a Rabbi, a Mullah, or a Wicasa Wakan, does it behoove me to reject it because it didn't come from "one of my kind"? I hope you are not opposed to the study of Lakota belief by non-Lakota. We are all on the same journey, though by different roads. If I look at your map, and you look at mine, maybe we can help each other find truth. If this makes me a wannabe, so be it. but if you want to declare war on me, it won't work. I won't be your enemy. I'd rather be your friend.
William "Buzz" Mooney
Date: Tue, 18 Nov 1997 (posted late and thus out of sequence)
From: jacobsj@wworld.com (Claudia Jacobs)
Subject: Responce to Declare War Against Exploiters of Lakota SpirtualityI don't feel that any of the great Sioux leaders would advocate shutting out people who want to learn about the Lakota ways for the simple reason that they are not native people. Selling sacred objects and selling spirtuality is very unacceptable any way you look at it. But I see nothing wrong with sharing the Lakota ways with anyone who wants to learn about them as long as they are regarded in a respectful manner. I am not Lakota. I have lost track of my own heritage and I feel bad about it. However Chritianity holds nothing for me. When I began to learn about the Lakota ways I felt fulfilled in some way. I regret that I am not Lakota, although there is nothing I can do about it. I just feel that I should not be turned away because I am white if I believe. Keep in mind how many Lakotas there are who were not raised in a traditional enviroment. Are they too going to be turned awy from the sacred ways because they haven't been around the ways until they decide to reclaim there spirtuality?
Date: Wed, 19 Nov 1997
From: TONI A BRIGGS briggs22@flash.net
Subject: Bogus CeremoniesI am a mixed-blood Cherokee urban indian. At a native meeting last week a Menominee brother told us that information came his way that on a previous weekend some people (or person we don't know who), held a vision quest in a local county park and charged individuals $300 to participate. We were astounded that people would so readily part with $300 and disgusted that "workshops" like this exist at all. Ask them to send money to the Pine Ridge or Qualla to help buy blankets for winter and see how tightly they hold on to their money.
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997
From: KLee351356 KLee351356@aol.com
Subject: Rationalization/Practitioners of Indigenous ReligionsWhomever may be reading this-
The reading of your "Declaration of War" brought to mind an interesting question. As one whose personal belief system has been greatly influenced by Native American philosophies, but who, in no way, claims to a be member of any religion, I find participation in modern society to be at great odds with a pantheistic belief system.
Simply using the electricity to post this letter is in direct violation of such philosophy. The fossil fuels burned, the discharge given by high voltage power lines, the environmental damage done when smelting and casting the metals used, the carbon monoxide put forth by the trucks used for maintenance and the nondegradabe tires they ride on all violate perpetuation of a vital "circle of life." Plastics that fill our lives; animals we eat which are neither a product of, or benefit to, natural evolution; paper we use voluminously; every aspect of our lives is a blow to the planet.
So how does one who professes membership in a religion that is centered on pantheism continually commit these "sins" and still consider themselves an upstanding practitioner?
Please post your your responses as I would be quite eager to read them. Thank you.
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997
From: MARYELLEN E HONKOMP MARBONNEY@prodigy.netYes, I give you permission to print my letter. Good luck.
While I respect what you say, I on the other hand, have a somewhat different opinion. I am not American Indian, but feel greatly blessed that two Sundancers, Manny Twofeathers, and David Silverhawk have started teaching us Non-Native American Indians their traditions.
The only time that I feel that a white, black or oriental should teach American Indian sprirituality is if that individual has spent time on the reservation, been taught by a medicine man, and has been "adopted" as an American Indian.
I believe the American Indian way, but, being white, I do not truly understand the spirit keepers that the American Indians call upon. If one calls upon the keeper of any of the directions, not knowing the proper way of doing this, disaster can only arrive.
The time will come when all peoples will come together. But for now, I believe that if we truly want to share in the American Indian Culture, we must be willing to spend years learning with the greatest respect for Tunkashila, Mother Earth and the 4 directions.
Unfortunately, some people do not realize the spiritual significance of the pipe ceremony or the sweat lodge. I do not fully understand it. I believe that following at home is ok, but never should one teach it to others unless they earn the right to do so. The same as earning the right to carry an eagle wing.
I'm sorry if this is not quite the way you believe, but I do. We white people should actually be grateful that the American Indian is willing to teach us. I'm sure it is very difficult for them, because they have been lied to, cheated, ripped off and herded like low life into prisons, called reservations.
One last thing, even though my skin is white, in my heart I am American Indian. I've been stoned as a child for standing up for the rights of a Cherokee friend of mine.
Date: Sun, 07 Dec 1997
From: Brad Beckwith windy36@mlode.com
Subject: ResponseYes you have my permission to post this
First of all I would like to say how amazed I am by the stereotyping. One I am me the pigmentation of my skin has nothing to do with who or what I am. I have believed the same as I did as a child. Blood memories knowledge from my past. The truth is that we are all one even those people we disagree with. I feel that every one should try and respect each others feelings and beliefs. Funny isn't it how Helen Keller a blind and deaf girl seen more beauty in the world than most with sight and the ability to hear can. I once had a fight with a co-worker over burning the american flag. He felt it should be against the law and that it was sacred. I told him it was only a symbol. He got extremely upset saying alot of people have given their lifes for the flag. I told him he was wrong they fought for what they believed in not for a peice of cloth. Every thing is sacerd to me the earth the plants the wild life every living creature. What really bugs me is the predudice folks in the world. Some people hate fat folks or perhaps that one is to thin or the color of ones skin. My parents talked bad about other races and cultures when I was a child. I never did or will understand why people look at another with only their eyes. I am not really what you see! I am a spirit you can destroy my body but no one can ever touch my spirit. You can shoot me eat me what ever but that will not destroy the real me. When people talk about who they are it seems most folks define them selfs as a race. I am me nothing more or less. My spirituality has always been with me since the beginning of time. No one knows what pain is untill they have been hurt. To say that a human being can not possible understand certain spiritual ways unless they have Indian blood is such nonsense. Thats like saying only people who eat certain food can obtain a direct link to the Great Spirit. It's not our differances that all of us should be looking at. Only people who look at one another with their hearts can really see. Just like how animals can tell if your a freind or foe. It comes from the heart and soul not the package carrying it. The christian groups are wageing war over the gay people. They think they are better than the gays because they do not follow the christian ways. During the crusades christians slaughtered any one whom did not belief as they did. Religion is a way of controlling peoples so called moral behavior. I have never been religious and I never will. I am spiritual and I do not judge what is right or wrong for others. There is nothing a person can do to take my spiritual beliefs away or to make them less sacred to me. The visions I've had where given to me by the great spirit. All I had to do was open my heart and listen with my soul. One thing we all should know coyote comes in many forms so look with your heart.
Windwalker
Date: Sun, 12 Oct 1997 (lost in e-mail chaos.... posted December 5, 1997)
From: Brad Beckwith windy36@mlode.com
Subject: RE: Spirituality has Many PathsYes you have my permission to post -- Thank you
I would like to say that, One I am white skinned I did not have a choice in this matter. My heart and soul have no color, I am not a religious person. I am a spiritual person. My wife is an Indian, so together we walk the path of life. I hope that this does not offend anyone? At the same time we do not follow any particular form of spirituality only that we open our hearts and let the Great Spirit of life guide us along. My Grand Father wants to build a sweat lodge on our home in the Sonora mountains. My Question is will this upset you? and does this make you at war with me? Are we or are we not all related? All things in life the trees the plants animals people are one. Every cell is only the fraction of the whole. We are connected in ways that most shall never understand. If this offends any body, I am sorry.
NOTE: Posted late due to need for permission
Subject: Re: Bogus Ceremonies
07:52 PM 11/19/97I am a mixed-blood Cherokee urban indian. At a native meeting last week a Menominee brother told us that information came his way that on a previous weekend some people (or person we don't know who), held a vision quest in a local county park and charged individuals $300 to participate. We were astounded that people would so readily part with $300 and disgusted that "workshops" like this exist at all. Ask them to send money to the Pine Ridge or Qualla to help buy blankets for winter and see how tightly they hold on to their money.
If you think people would find it of interest, sure [post it]. Mitakuye Oyasin.
From: "Richard W. Voss" RVOSS@wcupa.edu
Subject: Response to the Declaration of War
Organization: West Chester UniversityFriends: I've read the interesting discussion about the Declaration of War. I think it is good to hear all the different views. I am really grateful to hear the outpouring of concern and heartfelt feelings shared. I think this is an important discussion.
I hope that we all keep in mind the natural way of creation that links us all; no declaration by anyone can wipe this out or change the unwritten law. We are all related. Hecetu'elo!
As a non-Indian, I have found the best way to learn about Lakota philosophy and thought is to contact one of the Indian colleges. Many offer courses and institutes on Indian language, culture, and thought. I have found Lakota people to be generous and interested in helping others understand their culture if one is sincere and willing to learn. The college courses are open to everyone, and they are not anymore expensive than usual college courses in most communities. There is a beautiful Cultural Center in Eagle Butte, S.D. which is open to the public, and the staff there is very helpful and informative. Approaching Lakota studies from this way is respectful and is non-exploitive. Many people are curious and interested.
I want to encourage both my Indian and non-Indian brothers and sisters to follow where the creation leads them and to respect the mystery of this. I just want to say that I appreciate hearing from everyone who contributed to this discussion. Thank you. We can learn a lot from each other. Mitakuye oyas'in.
Rick Voss, West Chester, Pa.
Date: Wed, 03 Dec 1997
From: ABrinDRACO@aol.com
Subject: response to statement: exploitation
I give my permission to post. I am half cherokee and live in North Carolina on the coast, but would like to give my views if ok. I feel that we as the great spirit Wovoka would want us to be able to practice our sacred beliefs and hand these to our children. So that as they grow they will know the sacredness of all our beliefs and religions. I support the declaration as one must stop all explorters who think nothing of who we are, but what they can get from us. We need to stop the exploritation of our brothers and sisters as this is our spiritual practices. If we could go back to the old ways of grandfather we as one would learn to live as the great one wants.
A BrinDRACO@aol.com
Date: Mon, 01 Dec 1997
Thanks.
From: thewrightplace1@juno.com (Tom Wright)
Subject: Re: Response to Statement: Explicit permission to post granted
To: bucko@creighton.edu
X-Mailer: Juno 1.38
Tom RunningEagle Wright
First, I am a Native American Indian from a tribe which was mostly slaughtered and even now has little culture, religion or language left intact (Klamath). I respect the position of the Lakota Members regarding the protection of their "sacred ceremonies", however, I do not agree.
Our ancestors blood screams at us from the ground to share, and to get along, and to learn like Fawn, to use unconditional love to heal our wounds. We, the Indians, are responsible for our own murders, not the White Man. We were already fighting long before the White Man came to Turtle Island. We did not share our Spiritual Knowledge, as now, we held it close to our hearts and our Tribes and cannot seem to see what that has offered the Earth, which is nothing much but a dying culture attempting to salvage its dignity. I have been in a traditional Inipi Ceremony with a Traditional Lakota Elder, Pipecarrier and have studied what I can of Lakota and other Ancient Native Cultures, for lack of my own.
Only thru sharing, may we learn to understand, and we are all Creatures of the Creator, it's not how much "Indian" is in our blood that matters, it is how much "Spirit" is in our blood that counts. SO what if only basterdized bits and pieces flow fom otherwise unhealthy sources. Is not everything from Creator? Do we so malign our very Sacred Ceremonies to not, perhaps in the way of Heyoka, laugh at these attempts to mimic us, when these very attempts of our once proud and powerful ceremonies at least provide one with a "taste" of the Master? Just a thought.
Date: Sun, 30 Nov 1997
From: Tom Wright wright3@gte.net
Subject: Response to Statement
To: bucko@creighton.edu
Reply-to: thewrightplace1@juno.comFirst, I am a Native American Indian from a tribe which was mostly slaughtered and even now has little culture, religion or language left intact (Klamath). I respect the position of the Lakota Members regarding the protection of their "sacred ceremonies", however, I do not agree. Our ancestors blood screams at us from the ground to share, and to get along, and to learn like Fawn, to use unconditional love to heal our wounds. We, the Indians, are responsible for our own murders, not the White Man. We were already fighting long before the White Man came to Turtle Island. We did not share our Spiritual Knowledge, as now, we held it close to our hearts and our Tribes and cannot seem to see what that has offered the Earth, which is nothing much but a dying culture attempting to salvage its dignity. I have been in a traditional Inipi Ceremony with a Traditional Lakota Elder, Pipecarrier and have studied what I can of Lakota and other Ancient Native Cultures, for lack of my own.
Only thru sharing, may we learn to understand, and we are all Creatures of the Creator, it's not how much "Indian" is in our blood that matters, it is how much "Spirit" is in our blood that counts. SO what if only basterdized bits and pieces flow fom otherwise unhealthy sources. Is not everything from Creator? Do we so malign our very Sacred Ceremonies to not, perhaps in the way of Heyoka, laugh at these attempts to mimic us, when these very attempts of our once proud and powerful ceremonies at least provide one with a "taste" of the Master? Just a thought.
Date: Fri, 28 Nov 1997
From: Dick Lower tsalagi@ntslink.net
Subject: Re: false religionsYES, you can post my message. I am reprinting your notice of war and sending it out to ones I know will be interested to see it. I will urge caution to all. And it will go to places of authority so those who are not aware in the white world here, may understand the serious nature of these practices.
Hello!
My name is Mr. Richard Lower. I am 66 years old and I am 1/16 Cherokee Indian. I was raised in the 1930's and learned about the ways of my grandfathers from my grandfather. I learned many things and was in awe of the warriors and great people he spoke of.
But it was not to be for me to see the wonders that he spoke about. He gave me a gift. I cannot explain the gift but it brought me close to my creator and to Mother Earth. I am in the twilight of my life and when my spirit leaves so will my memories.
Also it was necessary for me to become white! Which most of my blood is of the white race. But my spirit is red! So with caution my trip through life has been just to do what my spirit commands me to do in the light of our creator.
I began to work with organizations in behalf of saving Indian history and ways in my home state. My home state is a dead state for the Native American. It is Illinois. But the reason for my writing is to let you know that your war is not alone for even those of my spirit detest the false ones who would use knowledge to fill their glory and pockets.
I was raised as a Christian and still clung to many of the old ways of my grandfather. But I do not want to stop any brother from his worship. However there are those who try to glorify themselves and they don't even have any ancestory of Indian in them. But they lead people astray! They lead them to worship idols and people who are only a quick trip to evil.
In my own way I have fought them and vigorously rejected these teachings unless they are of blood and spirit of the tribe they come from. But even full blood people have lost their way and no longer honor their grandfathers. The dangerous part of this is, many people believe these false shamans and spirit leaders who make themselves look great and powerful.
I do not know Lakta ways... I do not know all the other 500 ways the tribes worship, but I know who Jesus Christ is and the God that is his father who is the Creator of all of us. I do not need magic to know this.
It grieves me to see those that cheapen a persons worship for the sake of his own glory. But these people are powerful because they have evil working for them. And they don't even know it. And thus continure to spread evil...
In my life I have quietly done what one person can do. I do not degrade any of my brothers because he does not believe the way I do. Nor do I force any one to smudge themselves to please me.
I am glad to see the Lakota's take this stand... I agree with it 100%.
I wish there was more in my life that I could do for my brothers and sisters. For we all are from the same Mother Earth. God bless all who keep this page and the belief they carry in their hearts.
I give prayers to help you in your cause. Thanks for listening.
Mr. Dick Lower.......Pekin, Illinois ....
tsalagi@ntslink.nts....
Date: Thu, 13 Nov 1997
From: "Nancy D. Miller" solacel@erols.com
Subject: Re: declaration of war..
. Organization: West Power WomanAt 12:24 AM 11/13/97 -0800, you wrote:
I believe the same Creator made all of us, two legged, four legged, swimming, flying and crawling. I believe we only empower the destroyers of our Mother Earth when we fight and bicker among ourselves about something as precious and sacred as our ways of approaching our Creator. I believe that there are many non-native people who are disaffected from the religions taught to them in childhood, recognize that these religions do not speak to their hearts and are searching for a way that makes sense - that honors the earth and all things in and of our Mother Earth. Is this something for truly honorable people to "Make War" against? Do these searchers deserve your hatred for their efforts? Does not this fomenting of even more division serve only to further weaken the attempts of those who care for the earth? Does it not play right into the hands of the corporations and right-wing abusers of earth? How can the hoop be made whole if those who have so much knowledge to give refuse to teach those who hunger for that knowledge? How could true knowledge support such a stance? Why would the Creator honor such an attitude of hate?
Of course, I give my permission for this to be posted. Thanks!
Date: Wed, 12 Nov 1997
From: Dane@snd.softfarm.com (Dan Glover)
Subject: war on wannabesits the human condition to cling to that which one feels belongs to oneself. but in the reality of things, we can possess nothing. not even our bodies. so how can we hope to possess something as ephermeral as a religion, or a way of life? we feel what we feel in our hearts, and the violence of war does the heart no good.
remember, we are all brothers and sisters, created and being created by a force of life which permeates the entire universe instanteanously. the pettiness of clinging to that which we cannot possess, and attempting to deny it to others in the name of sacrelege, is no better than selling it to the wannabes who flock to the pow wows and pretend to be indians for a day.
isnt it time to give up hate and embrace the totality of what we all can really be?
permission is granted to quote this message in its entirety, anywhere.
Date: Mon, 10 Nov 1997
From: sarah dickinson sdickins@d.umn.eduTo whom it may concern,
My name is Sarah Dickinson and I am currently a student at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. This quarter I am talking a class entitled "Myths and Sacred Symbols". Thus far we have read and responded to numerous articles which attempt to discuss issues of spirituality, religion, etc. We have concentrated, in the last few weeks, on Taoism and Buddism and now we are looking at Shamanism. For the end of the quarter we were assigned to write a paper on something that interests us academically and emotionally. I have decided to write about Shamanism and in looking for information I came upon your web site.
Here's where things get a little sticky. As I have been searching the web it has become painfully obvious that Shamanism is becoming a rather abused mode of finding one's spirituality. In western society, it seems that many of us have virtually no sense of belonging and our religion has become obsolete. Religion lends solidarity to a group and as writer Kurt Vonnegut states,"An effective religion allows people to imagine from moment to moment what is going on and how they should behave." I agree and can reason that with our general lack of religion we have no solidarity and we have found false solace in thinking that our knowledge of heart transplants, spaceships and genetically engineered sheep will carry us successfull into the future. Thus, the resurgence of traditonal indigenous religions, ways of life, beliefs etc. among non indigenous peoples is an unresearched attempt to find meaning. It concerns me that I can walk into a bookstore and find a 20 page pamphlet promising to teach me how to embark on my own shamanic journey. In fact, it infuriates me. I can't understand how one could believe that thousands of years of wisdom, gained through trial and error, belief, faith and searching can be boiled down into a self-help book.
I too am lost in my beliefs and finding a religion that suits me and allows me to live the way I see fit would be wonderful. But using selected parts of a traditional practice out of context and misunderstanding is to abuse the sacred.
I was reading the Declaration of War Against Exploiters of Lakota Spirituality and the above ideas came to mind. I hope that I have said something of value here or, if not, at least declared on my own behalf that I will not exploit Lakota spirituality or anyone else's spirituality for that matter. It is sacred.
Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts. A response by anyone so inclined would be more than welcome. I would also be open to suggestions for paper topics relating to Shamanism.
With all sincerity,
Sarah Dickinson sdickisn@d.umn.edu
Date: Mon, 03 Nov 1997
From: Indian8092@aol.com
Subject: RE:Acts Not Blood!
To: bucko@creighton.eduYou Have My Permission to post my word!
I am not an born Indian native to America, but was born a white man. I curse the day I was born white and not an Indian! i live and believe the ways of Native American and do not take or act like the whites who try to make money from native art or Spiritual Belives.I know the anger the Indians feel when whites or others try to clame Indian heritage, but I say it is the not the blood that makes one a true Human Being but the Acts of the soul! So when I smoke the Sacred Pipe I offer it to the Spirit and it sends Knowlage as it will to me. Let those that follow the Spirit be guided by it and not by Man nor words, for if followed correctly it will lead to Freedom to the Great Spirit the Eagle!
Indian8092
Date: Mon, 03 Nov 1997
From: Manu Subirats i Costa msic@conecta.esI forgot to send you my permission to post my message to the internet. Of course, you have it! I send you again the complete message, joining my permission. Thank you very much!
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DECLARATION OF WAR AGAINST EXPLOITERS OF LAKOTA SPIRITUALITY
Dear friends,
I support absolutely the declaration of WAR AGAINST EXPLOITERS. I'm really very happy when I read declarations so clear and exact. I believe this is a good step to religious freedom, self-respect and sovereignity of American Indian First Nations.
I send you too the "Spanish view of American Indian Nations Phenomenon", a letter that I sent to your related Russell Means, and also to Vernon Bellecourt. In this letter I expressed my displeasure about what was hapenning with New Age movement and other related pagan movements in respect to American Indian Religious Tradition. It is not my intention to discourage you, but it is important to know how difficult will be to educate non-indians!
Mitaku Oyasin.
So, here's is my letter...------------------
THE SPANISH VIEW OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONS "PHENOMENON"
I’m sorry I can’t give you much pleasant news about the Spanish view of the "Indian phenomenon", partly because of my excessively critical point of view, I suppose, but I think that you don’t expect anything better. There has been, in the latest two years, an increasing "Indian fashion", especially between young people, and although it has had a positive effect upon their awareness of Indian people, it hasn’t produced an involving effect yet.This fashion arrived to Spain, just as to other countries, together with the New Age movement, which, doesn’t do anything but distracting people’s minds with pseudo-spiritual subjects (it’s my personal opinion). The New Age fashion caused a widespread diffusion of "Indian material" which I think it doesn’t help at all because it spreads only a topical and superficial image, oversighting Indian Nations’ reality and sovereignty, and avoiding to talk about any piece of news related to the disguised fight which they are submitted to.
All this, as you know, doesn’t do anything but ignore the reality, consign Indians to their past and, moreover, pull out economical benefits which don’t go back, in any way, to the Indian Nations. Obviously, people get easily persuaded by that fashion and, therefore, end up believing in a kind of unreal and mythicized image of the Indians (another way of colonization: the destruction of the subject by the myth).
Nevertheless, there is also a positive impact: at last, the main history books have been translated and published, and also information about the main spiritual heritage, pictures and new historical reports which are very different from the stories of the Hollywood pictures. Nowadays, the complete Curtis Encyclopedia is available, and also are the book and writings of Jerry Mander, Dee Brown, J. Epes Brown, Ch. A. Eastman and J. Neihardt (unfortunately, the original text of Hehaka Sapa of DeMallie’s books hasn’t been published). Writings which you could only get from the USA in the past such as "The Iroquois Manifest" or the K. Meadows’ "Medicine way" are now available in Spanish language (there are only two book shops in Barcelona where you can find wide catalogues on the publications about the subject). Nevertheless, I have to say that, as usual, lots of very superficial and non-serious books which are not worthy to mention had been published too. The same occurs with music. You can find, for example, a R.Carlos Nakai CD together with lots of false music and other "New Age products" which take their opportunity from the "Indian fashion".
The question is, does that give some kind of profit to you, the Indian Nations?, or is it a mere business that has come out from a Wasichu’s fashion?.
A few months ago I had a talk with the purchase director of an important shop chain which sells natural and ecological products, CD, books, T-shirts, and any suited product....Of course, they sell "Indian products" too (from a tipi and a CD, as far as, calumets, moccasins, clay figures, bows and arrows). Anyone of these products are manufactured by Indian hands, but proceed from the Philippines and from Thailand. I asked him why he doesn’t buy these products directly to the Indians. The answer was that they are too expensive. I asked him about giving part of his economical profits to the Indian cause. He just screwed his face and stopped to pay me attention.
I talked to E.K. Flagler too, an anthropologist who recently wrote a book about the ethnic relationship between Spanish people and Indians in New Mexico (edited by the Curtis Encyclopedia’s publishers). And, again, not even a cent is sent to any social or cultural cause related to the Indian Nations!.
Neither did I received very friendly replies when I talked to a few people about creating an Internet virtual book shop where people can buy any kind of book, CD o videocassette related to Indian Nations. At first, the idea seemed a good one to them, but the point that didn’t seem so good was the idea to give all the economical benefits to the Indian Nations.
I also found a man who is intending to organize holiday trips to the Indian Reservations -another way of exploitation- without thinking to give any part of his benefits to them. This fact wouldn’t be so striking if that man wouldn’t have been an anthropologist. I think that he gives to this customers an offensive, very little respectful and unreliable image of Indians, so away from reality that I don’t think it benefits your reputation at all. I really think that it should be some kind of control over the tourists that go there to visit the reservations, considering that is very difficult to fight against cultural colonization (I speak by my own experience because that is exactly what the spanish people and the spanish government has always been trying to do to Catalonia, my nation).
There is also an "avalanche" of people who call themselves "shaman", "wichasha wakan", and who offer short weekend courses (or sometimes larger ones) to the New Age public, and these are so expensive that the assistants will surely believe to get their souls saved forever. Finally, some opportunists have made "real Indian camps" in the middle of the forest: a few tipis besides a lake with -you won’t believe it- parquet floor, central heating, conditioned air.... a cascade which stops with remote control to make way to an artificial cave where you can find all kind of Lakota, Navajo and Cheyenne symbols mixed with the Yin-Yang oriental symbol, Cabalistic allegories, Arabian symbolism, Shintoism.... all this dressed up with New Age relaxation music, and so expensive that only yuppies can afford it.
Nevertheless, not all is so bad as that: some of the most important newspapers sometimes speak about objective news such as new books, the Navajo matters, Quebec-Canada, etc. Sometimes, goodwill people organize public awareness activities, such as a music recital based on the "Noah Sealth-Chief Seattle" manifest (unfortunately they ignore that the version they use of this manifest is not the real one but a free version of it written by a Hollywood screenplayer).
As you can see, there is a lot of work to do to educate public opinion about the subject.
This page is managed by
Rev. Raymond A. Bucko, S.J.
of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology
at Creighton University.E-Mail: bucko@creighton.edu
Page Last Updated: January 2, 2004