You Should Know…
A phone call was received today
He said he was a new tribal member
“What am I entitled to?”
Those were his first words
What do I get?
It’s what they all say
He was asked, “What’s your name?”
“What’s your enrollment number?”
“Where do you live?”
They gave him the scoop
Including the info on per cap
He asked, “What’s that?”
“How do I get it?”
You should know
That our ancestors fought a battle…one of recognition
The White government tried to deny us our existence
You should know
That we continue on with our Traditional ways
They tried to make us Catholics, Presbyterians and Protestants
You should know
That our ceremonies continue
You may sweat, Sundance, dance at the powwow, feast and fast, if you so wish
You should know
That you have a voice
Within this circle as within others around it
You should know
That hunting, fishing and gathering
Is still a way to provide for your family
As it was generations before you
You should know
That my prejudices have always existed
And yours are now just beginning
~ Theresa Blue Sky