By Michael Hiestand
ESPNEWS anchor Todd Grisham, in conjunction with a shot of distraught Oklahoma fans, referred to the "trail of tears."
October 23, 2011
Upset fans = "Trail of Tears"?
ESPN apologizes for 'inappropriate' Oklahoma comment
By Michael HiestandESPN Sunday apologized for an what it called an "inappropriate" comment made on ESPNEWS following Texas Tech's college football win over Oklahoma.
ESPNEWS anchor Todd Grisham, in conjunction with a shot of distraught Oklahoma fans, referred to the "trail of tears." Comment: For more on the Trail of Tears, see "Minimal Bloods" = Greedy White People? and Man Walks Trail of Tears.
By Michael Hiestand
ESPNEWS anchor Todd Grisham, in conjunction with a shot of distraught Oklahoma fans, referred to the "trail of tears."
October 22, 2011
Native meteor lore
Orionid Meteor Shower and the Great Leader TecumsehThe great Shawnee leader Tecumseh’s very name means Shooting Star, or literally, The Panther Passing Across, due to the brightness of a meteor that streaked across the sky as the newborn cried out.
Indigenous shooting-star legends abound, from the Hopi tale of a boy and his mother who hitched a ride on a meteor to the Sun’s house so that the boy could find out who his father was, to the Mi’kmaq tale of Feather Woman and her son, banished from the sky by the Morning Star and sent back to earth as a shooting star.
Meteor showers, or shooting stars, have many meanings in indigenous lore. Meteors have also brought bad omens, cured illness and fought off demons.
“Different Native American tribes had different explanations for what things like these were,” writes a blogger at the Ohio State University College of Engineering. “Some thought that meteors were omens of sickness and death, others believed that they were spirits on their way to the afterlife. One belief that I found particularly interesting was the Kiliwa belief that meteors were the urine of the constellations Xsmii.” Comment: For more on Native astronomy, see Navajo/Zuni Astronomer and Wolf Moon in Teen Wolf.
Indigenous shooting-star legends abound, from the Hopi tale of a boy and his mother who hitched a ride on a meteor to the Sun’s house so that the boy could find out who his father was, to the Mi’kmaq tale of Feather Woman and her son, banished from the sky by the Morning Star and sent back to earth as a shooting star.
Meteor showers, or shooting stars, have many meanings in indigenous lore. Meteors have also brought bad omens, cured illness and fought off demons.
“Different Native American tribes had different explanations for what things like these were,” writes a blogger at the Ohio State University College of Engineering. “Some thought that meteors were omens of sickness and death, others believed that they were spirits on their way to the afterlife. One belief that I found particularly interesting was the Kiliwa belief that meteors were the urine of the constellations Xsmii.”
Timberlake's Cherokee golf course
Justin Timberlake Wins Green Award With Native-Themed Golf CourseAt the Environmental Media Association‘s 21st annual Environmental Media Awards, held October 15, Actor and singer Justin Timberlake received the EMA Futures Award for his Mirimichi golf course, located near his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee.
Timberlake, who initially rose to fame as a member of boy band *NSync and then as a solo artist and has starred in such films as The Social Network and the upcoming thriller In Time, has made occasional comments about his likely Native ancestry. In an article at contactmusic.com he is quoted as saying: “I’ve had my genealogy studied and I want to say that I am of British descent. … There was a British lad who was in a war, not sure which war, but he ran away from the war because he fell in love with an Indian girl, and that’s where my family tree started.”
On its website, Thompson, the firm that helped develop the brand for the course, specifically identifies Timberlake’s ancestral tribe and explains the course’s name. “Justin is part Cherokee Indian,” it reads, “We discovered the word mirimichi by searching old Indian names. Mirimichi happens to mean, ‘Place of happy retreat.’”
The course’s logo is an arrowhead, and its holes are given Cherokee names: #2 is Gada-ama (“Muddy Water”), #9 is Egategawi (“Sunset”), #10 is Inadu (“Snake”). Comment: For more on Native golf, see 4th NB3 Challenge and NFL Stars to Golf at Pechanga.
Timberlake, who initially rose to fame as a member of boy band *NSync and then as a solo artist and has starred in such films as The Social Network and the upcoming thriller In Time, has made occasional comments about his likely Native ancestry. In an article at contactmusic.com he is quoted as saying: “I’ve had my genealogy studied and I want to say that I am of British descent. … There was a British lad who was in a war, not sure which war, but he ran away from the war because he fell in love with an Indian girl, and that’s where my family tree started.”
On its website, Thompson, the firm that helped develop the brand for the course, specifically identifies Timberlake’s ancestral tribe and explains the course’s name. “Justin is part Cherokee Indian,” it reads, “We discovered the word mirimichi by searching old Indian names. Mirimichi happens to mean, ‘Place of happy retreat.’”
The course’s logo is an arrowhead, and its holes are given Cherokee names: #2 is Gada-ama (“Muddy Water”), #9 is Egategawi (“Sunset”), #10 is Inadu (“Snake”).
Viewers respond to Children of the Plains
Viewers Open Hearts to 'Children of the Plains'
By Margaret AroAmericans are opening their hearts to the young dreamers of the Pine Ridge Reservation after watching their stories on "A Hidden America: Children of the Plains," Friday's "20/20" special with Diane Sawyer.
The schools, organization and entrepreneurs featured in the special and online have been overwhelmed with e-mails from architects and community planners with ideas for mobile health clinics, new retailers interested in investing and selling Native American products and more.
The children and teens profiled on the show, meanwhile, have been flooded with messages of support since the special aired. Alaina Clifford, 19, the teen mom with dreams of becoming a music star, said she's heard from many other teen moms who have urged her not to give up on her goals and praising her beautiful voice. Viewers have also called the school of 6-year-old, Tashina Iron Horse, the exuberant pow wow dancer who kept her spirit in the face of tragedy, to ask what they can do to keep the young girl smiling. Comment: For more on the subject, see Indians Slam Children of the Plains and Reactions to Children of the Plains.
By Margaret Aro
The schools, organization and entrepreneurs featured in the special and online have been overwhelmed with e-mails from architects and community planners with ideas for mobile health clinics, new retailers interested in investing and selling Native American products and more.
The children and teens profiled on the show, meanwhile, have been flooded with messages of support since the special aired. Alaina Clifford, 19, the teen mom with dreams of becoming a music star, said she's heard from many other teen moms who have urged her not to give up on her goals and praising her beautiful voice. Viewers have also called the school of 6-year-old, Tashina Iron Horse, the exuberant pow wow dancer who kept her spirit in the face of tragedy, to ask what they can do to keep the young girl smiling.
October 21, 2011
Obama's goal: US as Indian reservation?!
Former Sen. Burns speaks to tea party groupFormer U.S. Sen. Conrad Burns says President Barack Obama wants the “whole country to become like an Indian reservation.”
Burns spoke Thursday in Billings to tea party supporters at a small rally organized by Americans for Prosperity. AFP is an advocacy group founded with support from billionaire brothers Charles and David Koch, which lobbies for lower taxes and less government.
The Billings Gazette reports Burns also compared the Occupy Wall Street protesters to spoiled children throwing a “hissy fit.” A group of more than 40 responded approvingly to his remarks. Comment: "Like an Indian reservation"...you mean a place of great cultural diversity and beauty?
Perhaps he meant the Mashantucket Pequot or Mohegan reservation, or another reservation of that type. You know, where a rising tide of prosperity has lifted every tribal member.
Less charitably, perhaps he meant a place where brown-skinned people predominate. You know, ghettos, 'hoods, barrios, reservations, and mosques. Where "those people" are trying to take over the country from "real Americans" like Burns.
The Tea Party audience cheered these remarks the same way they cheered executions and booed a gay soldier. Thus proving once again that teabaggers are racists.
For more on conservative racism, see Perry's "Response" Broke Cannibal Curse?! and Rubio: Entitlements "Weakened" Us.
Burns spoke Thursday in Billings to tea party supporters at a small rally organized by Americans for Prosperity. AFP is an advocacy group founded with support from billionaire brothers Charles and David Koch, which lobbies for lower taxes and less government.
The Billings Gazette reports Burns also compared the Occupy Wall Street protesters to spoiled children throwing a “hissy fit.” A group of more than 40 responded approvingly to his remarks.
Perhaps he meant the Mashantucket Pequot or Mohegan reservation, or another reservation of that type. You know, where a rising tide of prosperity has lifted every tribal member.
Less charitably, perhaps he meant a place where brown-skinned people predominate. You know, ghettos, 'hoods, barrios, reservations, and mosques. Where "those people" are trying to take over the country from "real Americans" like Burns.
The Tea Party audience cheered these remarks the same way they cheered executions and booed a gay soldier. Thus proving once again that teabaggers are racists.
For more on conservative racism, see Perry's "Response" Broke Cannibal Curse?! and Rubio: Entitlements "Weakened" Us.
Candidate: Indians spend "handouts" on drugs
Sask. Party candidate apologizes over First Nations remark
Greg Ottenbreit asking for forgivenessA Saskatchewan Party candidate is apologizing after suggesting First Nations people who get "handouts" sometimes spend it on drugs and alcohol.
Greg Ottenbreit, who is the party's Yorkton candidate, issued a written apology Friday for comments he made two days earlier at an all-candidates forum.
Ottenbreit said he made the improper remarks in response to a question about resource revenue-sharing with First Nations, something the NDP wants to hold talks about, but which the Saskatchewan Party opposes.
"I don't remember my exact words, but I said something like, 'What I have been told by some of my First Nations friends is that sometimes when there are handouts or the money comes free and easy, it can be used for alcohol and drugs,'" Ottenbreit said in a news release.
The exact wording of Ottenbreit's comments at the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce candidates’ forum wasn't immediately available.
"This was an inappropriate comment. I sincerely apologize for any pain my words have caused and ask forgiveness from anyone I have offended," Ottenbreit said.
There are several reserves around Yorkton, a city of about 15,000 people that's home to a First Nations-run casino and several other First Nations-run agencies.
"My words were poorly chosen. Drugs and alcohol are a challenge in every community and not specific to First Nations. This issue has nothing to do with revenue sharing," Ottenbreit said. Comment: For more on Indians as lazy bums, see City Manager: "Navajos Are Lazy" and Chickaloon Indians = Leeches?
Greg Ottenbreit asking for forgiveness
Greg Ottenbreit, who is the party's Yorkton candidate, issued a written apology Friday for comments he made two days earlier at an all-candidates forum.
Ottenbreit said he made the improper remarks in response to a question about resource revenue-sharing with First Nations, something the NDP wants to hold talks about, but which the Saskatchewan Party opposes.
"I don't remember my exact words, but I said something like, 'What I have been told by some of my First Nations friends is that sometimes when there are handouts or the money comes free and easy, it can be used for alcohol and drugs,'" Ottenbreit said in a news release.
The exact wording of Ottenbreit's comments at the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce candidates’ forum wasn't immediately available.
"This was an inappropriate comment. I sincerely apologize for any pain my words have caused and ask forgiveness from anyone I have offended," Ottenbreit said.
There are several reserves around Yorkton, a city of about 15,000 people that's home to a First Nations-run casino and several other First Nations-run agencies.
"My words were poorly chosen. Drugs and alcohol are a challenge in every community and not specific to First Nations. This issue has nothing to do with revenue sharing," Ottenbreit said.
Cherokee nominated for Grammy
Cherokee songwriter nominated for GrammyLongtime country music singer, songwriter and Cherokee citizen Becky Hobbs has received her second career Grammy nomination for her latest album, “Nanyehi, Beloved Woman of the Cherokee.”
The album was inspired by Nancy Ward, who Hobbs found out is her fifth great-grandmother. Ward, a member of the Wolf Clan, was born in Echota, Ga., and was named Beloved Woman after taking the place of her husband in battle. Comment: For more on the music and play, see Soundtrack for Nancy Ward Musical and Nancy Ward the Musical.
The album was inspired by Nancy Ward, who Hobbs found out is her fifth great-grandmother. Ward, a member of the Wolf Clan, was born in Echota, Ga., and was named Beloved Woman after taking the place of her husband in battle.
October 20, 2011
Native News Network
Grand Rapids man's Native News Network tackles national issues from American Indian perspective
By Shandra MartinezLongtime activist Levi Rickert has always kept abreast of issues affecting American Indians. Now, he is helping others to stay informed as well.
The Grand Rapids resident has launched Native News Network, a website that offers stories about American Indians and mainstream issues from an American Indian perspective. And:Nearly all stories or editorials are written by Rickert, who served as agency director for the North American Indian Center in Grand Rapids from 1994-2000. His partner, Mike Mohan, is the news site’s publisher and webmaster.
Rickert, whose journalism experience has primarily been book reviews and essays for The Press, now writes at a grueling pace of about five stories a day, six days a week. And:His goal is to make the website look like a national news site.
“We didn’t want to look like a regional newsletter just for Indians or a blog,” Rickert said.
Since its launch in April, Native News Network has had more than 100,000 hits.
Rickert said he thinks the website offers something different than Indianz.com, which aggregates stories about Native Americans, including his. Comment: Native News Network is also different from Pechanga.net, where I work.
I've already linked to dozens of Rickert's stories both here and on Pechanga.net. My hat's off to anyone who can write one or two stories a day, much less five. He's doing great work covering stories that no one else has covered.
For more on Native journalism, see Colonial Imagery in Canadian Newspapers and Native Can't Be Professors?!
By Shandra Martinez
The Grand Rapids resident has launched Native News Network, a website that offers stories about American Indians and mainstream issues from an American Indian perspective.
Rickert, whose journalism experience has primarily been book reviews and essays for The Press, now writes at a grueling pace of about five stories a day, six days a week.
“We didn’t want to look like a regional newsletter just for Indians or a blog,” Rickert said.
Since its launch in April, Native News Network has had more than 100,000 hits.
Rickert said he thinks the website offers something different than Indianz.com, which aggregates stories about Native Americans, including his.
I've already linked to dozens of Rickert's stories both here and on Pechanga.net. My hat's off to anyone who can write one or two stories a day, much less five. He's doing great work covering stories that no one else has covered.
For more on Native journalism, see Colonial Imagery in Canadian Newspapers and Native Can't Be Professors?!
Cherokee "History After Dark"
Cherokee Nation Presents 3rd Annual History After DarkCherokee Nation Cultural Tourism will be presenting their 3rd annual History After Dark, an interactive guided historical tour of the John Ross Museum, Owen School and Park Hill, Oklahoma, with a unique Civil War perspective. The tours take place every 30 minutes from 6-10 p.m. with the last tour departing at 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 21–22, from the Cherokee Heritage Center.
There will also be fall festival cultural activities for families both before and after the tour at the Cherokee Heritage Center, including storytelling and face painting.
“The guided historic tours provide a unique opportunity for guests to share in storytelling, which is a time-honored Cherokee tradition,” said Molly Jarvis, Vice President of Cultural Tourism at Cherokee Nation Entertainment in a press release. “History After Dark is a celebration of Cherokee heritage and culture that offers a rare point of view into the lives of some of our most respected Cherokee ancestors. This year we’ll also take a unique look into their roles during the Civil War.”
The experience begins at the John Ross Museum which features exhibits and interactive displays that highlight the life of John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation for more than 38 years. Exhibits include the Trail of Tears, Civil War, Cherokee Golden Age and Cherokee Nation’s passion for the education of its people. Comment: For more on Cherokee tourism, see Cherokee Civil War Tourism and Cherokees Plan John Ross Museum.
There will also be fall festival cultural activities for families both before and after the tour at the Cherokee Heritage Center, including storytelling and face painting.
“The guided historic tours provide a unique opportunity for guests to share in storytelling, which is a time-honored Cherokee tradition,” said Molly Jarvis, Vice President of Cultural Tourism at Cherokee Nation Entertainment in a press release. “History After Dark is a celebration of Cherokee heritage and culture that offers a rare point of view into the lives of some of our most respected Cherokee ancestors. This year we’ll also take a unique look into their roles during the Civil War.”
The experience begins at the John Ross Museum which features exhibits and interactive displays that highlight the life of John Ross, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation for more than 38 years. Exhibits include the Trail of Tears, Civil War, Cherokee Golden Age and Cherokee Nation’s passion for the education of its people.
City manager: "Navajos are lazy"
Discrimination Complaint Trial Set for Alleged Native Racial RemarksSalazar contends that at a meeting in 2007 with Flannery, her second-level supervisor, he expressed surprise that she had hired a Navajo woman for a city job and that the woman, “took the initiative to apply for the position.”
He asked Salazar “if she was familiar with Navajos,” and when she indicated she was not, he “explained that when he was a deputy county manager for Coconino County, Arizona, he worked with several Navajos” and is alleged to have said that “Navajos are lazy and that keeping up ‘clean’ appearances was not a priority for Navajo people.”
She charges discrimination and retaliation based upon gender as well as for her support for the Navajo employee and for her marriage to Frank Salazar, a Hispanic person.
After Salazar exhausted federal and state administrative remedies, she filed suit, contending that before her complaint of discrimination she “had never been disciplined or received a corrective action” but was told “that she was being terminated from her employment if she did not resign” and was fired two weeks later, according to her complaint. Comment: For more racism on the job, see Native Employee Taunted with Hanging Doll.
He asked Salazar “if she was familiar with Navajos,” and when she indicated she was not, he “explained that when he was a deputy county manager for Coconino County, Arizona, he worked with several Navajos” and is alleged to have said that “Navajos are lazy and that keeping up ‘clean’ appearances was not a priority for Navajo people.”
She charges discrimination and retaliation based upon gender as well as for her support for the Navajo employee and for her marriage to Frank Salazar, a Hispanic person.
After Salazar exhausted federal and state administrative remedies, she filed suit, contending that before her complaint of discrimination she “had never been disciplined or received a corrective action” but was told “that she was being terminated from her employment if she did not resign” and was fired two weeks later, according to her complaint.
October 19, 2011
Justin-Siena unveils new Braves mascot
Justin-Siena unveils new Braves logo
By Isabelle DillsStudent leaders and members of the local native Wappo tribe helped unveil the school logo, which features an illustration of the Brave in a cross-armed stance. The costumed mascot will make its first appearance during this week’s homecoming festivities—the exact date is being kept a surprise for students.
“Intimidating” is how several students described the mascot, which reportedly bears an authentic likeness of a Wappo. 
Justin-Siena has been without a mascot since the mid 1990s when administrators—worried that the image was offensive—did away with the private Catholic school’s original Native American mascot.
Mishewal-Wappo Tribal Chairman Scott Gabaldon attended Tuesday’s assembly to give his support of the new mascot.
“I always felt if it was done in a respectful way; it can be honorable,” Gabaldon said to the students.
He also helped educate students on how to be respectful of the Wappo tribe during school events.
The tribe did not hold pow-wows that involved drinking or drugs, nor did they use tomahawks, he said. Gabaldon also advised students not to do the type of chanting that involves hitting their mouths, creating a “wah-wah-wah” sound.
“It’s really derogatory and we ask that you refrain from that at school functions,” Gabaldon said. “If you see someone doing it, I hope you will correct them. Consider it your duty to correct them out of respect to the school and the tribe.”
During Tuesday’s assembly, students Lupe Padilla-Aguayo, 17, and Garrett Adair, 18, presented pictures and historical information about the Wappo in terms of customs, traditions and dress.
Padilla-Aguayo and Adair were among the student leaders who researched the traditions and customs of the Wappo tribe to help create the mascot. The students later presented their research to designthis!, a local print and web graphic design studio that created the logo.
One of the biggest design challenges was the Wappo’s “unique” style of headdress, known as a flicker, said Eileen Mize, Justin-Siena’s director of communications. The flicker has small feathers that border the piece as well as a distinctive feathered quill, she said. In the logo, the headdress has six feathers that stick out from the sides, closely resembling the traditional Wappo flicker.
Many different poses for the mascot were considered before deciding on the cross-armed stance, said Kris Yumul of designthis!. One of those poses included the mascot holding a spear, he said.
“We realized we didn’t need to be so literal,” Yumul said. “We liked the cross-armed stance the most because of its quiet confidence.” Comment: The students consider this mascot "intimidating." They wanted to give him a spear to make him more intimidating.
The mascot is stern-faced, stoic, half-naked, warpainted, from the distant past. But don't worry...he's "respectful," "honorable," and has an authentic headdress, so he's not at all stereotypical.
Yeah, right.
I guess the Wappo tribe supports this mascot because of the flicker headdress. It's still stereotypical because it presents an Indian as a primitive warrior of the past. Every mascot of this type is automatically stereotypical even if the depiction is accurate.
Debating mascots
Someone named Matthew Owen questioned me about this mascot on Facebook. It led to the following debate:Does this offend your sensibilities? Since it's an inaccurate portrayal of today's Indians and probably yesterday's Indians too, I'd say yes.Most Indians I am friends with, little offends them cause they walk in beauty, regardless of the idiocy of the world's inhabitants. One can oppose something without being offended by it.
It offends my sensibilities because it's inaccurate and stereotypical. That's different from offending me or my emotions. I don't get mad at stereotypes any more than I get mad at math errors. They're simply mistakes to be corrected.
Of course, most major Native organizations oppose Indian mascots.
Does it bother you that the Washington Redskins have made some Native children cry?
Newspaper Rock: Redskins make children cry
Love the "I'm a mature adult so stereotypes don't bother me" argument. But it kind of misses the point about whom stereotypes are influencing and harming.You know what, Fuck off buddy.
I am Cherokee and Chocktaw myself. You don't know what I am thinking and stop putting words into my mouth you little prick.
You don't get it. And likely never will.
I don't have time for your whining... I don't get what...that most major Native organizations oppose Indian mascots? Apparently you don't get that or you wouldn't act as if it weren't true.
Guess you didn't have any intelligent arguments to offer, eh? So you ran away like a little baby. Boo-hoo...Rob challenged me and I couldn't take it!
Thanks for unfriending me after you lost the argument, chump. I don't have time for people who excuse racism and stereotyping, regardless of their heritage. If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Stay the hell out so I don't have to kick your butt all over the map, okay?
Epilogue
My fair-weather friend Owens just cracks me up. I've been writing about Indian mascots and stereotypes for almost 20 years. I must've posted tens of thousands of comments on them.
Then he comes on my wall and asks me about them? And acts like they're not a problem? What did he think I was going to say? The mountains of research and evidence are wrong and he's right?
Idiocy!
For more on Indian mascots, see Chief Osceola Is "Respectful"? and Chief Zee's Successor?
By Isabelle Dills
“Intimidating” is how several students described the mascot, which reportedly bears an authentic likeness of a Wappo.
Mishewal-Wappo Tribal Chairman Scott Gabaldon attended Tuesday’s assembly to give his support of the new mascot.
“I always felt if it was done in a respectful way; it can be honorable,” Gabaldon said to the students.
He also helped educate students on how to be respectful of the Wappo tribe during school events.
The tribe did not hold pow-wows that involved drinking or drugs, nor did they use tomahawks, he said. Gabaldon also advised students not to do the type of chanting that involves hitting their mouths, creating a “wah-wah-wah” sound.
“It’s really derogatory and we ask that you refrain from that at school functions,” Gabaldon said. “If you see someone doing it, I hope you will correct them. Consider it your duty to correct them out of respect to the school and the tribe.”
During Tuesday’s assembly, students Lupe Padilla-Aguayo, 17, and Garrett Adair, 18, presented pictures and historical information about the Wappo in terms of customs, traditions and dress.
Padilla-Aguayo and Adair were among the student leaders who researched the traditions and customs of the Wappo tribe to help create the mascot. The students later presented their research to designthis!, a local print and web graphic design studio that created the logo.
One of the biggest design challenges was the Wappo’s “unique” style of headdress, known as a flicker, said Eileen Mize, Justin-Siena’s director of communications. The flicker has small feathers that border the piece as well as a distinctive feathered quill, she said. In the logo, the headdress has six feathers that stick out from the sides, closely resembling the traditional Wappo flicker.
Many different poses for the mascot were considered before deciding on the cross-armed stance, said Kris Yumul of designthis!. One of those poses included the mascot holding a spear, he said.
“We realized we didn’t need to be so literal,” Yumul said. “We liked the cross-armed stance the most because of its quiet confidence.”
The mascot is stern-faced, stoic, half-naked, warpainted, from the distant past. But don't worry...he's "respectful," "honorable," and has an authentic headdress, so he's not at all stereotypical.
Yeah, right.
I guess the Wappo tribe supports this mascot because of the flicker headdress. It's still stereotypical because it presents an Indian as a primitive warrior of the past. Every mascot of this type is automatically stereotypical even if the depiction is accurate.
Debating mascots
Someone named Matthew Owen questioned me about this mascot on Facebook. It led to the following debate:
It offends my sensibilities because it's inaccurate and stereotypical. That's different from offending me or my emotions. I don't get mad at stereotypes any more than I get mad at math errors. They're simply mistakes to be corrected.
Of course, most major Native organizations oppose Indian mascots.
Does it bother you that the Washington Redskins have made some Native children cry?
Newspaper Rock: Redskins make children cry
Love the "I'm a mature adult so stereotypes don't bother me" argument. But it kind of misses the point about whom stereotypes are influencing and harming.
I am Cherokee and Chocktaw myself. You don't know what I am thinking and stop putting words into my mouth you little prick.
You don't get it. And likely never will.
I don't have time for your whining...
Guess you didn't have any intelligent arguments to offer, eh? So you ran away like a little baby. Boo-hoo...Rob challenged me and I couldn't take it!
Thanks for unfriending me after you lost the argument, chump. I don't have time for people who excuse racism and stereotyping, regardless of their heritage. If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Stay the hell out so I don't have to kick your butt all over the map, okay?
Epilogue
My fair-weather friend Owens just cracks me up. I've been writing about Indian mascots and stereotypes for almost 20 years. I must've posted tens of thousands of comments on them.
Then he comes on my wall and asks me about them? And acts like they're not a problem? What did he think I was going to say? The mountains of research and evidence are wrong and he's right?
Idiocy!
For more on Indian mascots, see Chief Osceola Is "Respectful"? and Chief Zee's Successor?
Clovis First theory disproved
I've discussed the origin of Indians in postings such as Clovis Site in Time Team America and Migration Theories in Time Team America These postings challenged the prevailing Clovis theory. Now this theory is crumbling to bits.
The First Americans: Mounting Evidence Prompts Researchers to Reconsider the Peopling of the New World
Humans colonized the New World earlier than previously thought—a revelation that is forcing scientists to rethink long-standing ideas about these trailblazers
By Heather PringleFor decades scientists thought the first Americans were Asian big-game hunters who tracked mammoths and other large prey eastward across a now submerged landmass known as Beringia that joined northern Asia to Alaska. Arriving in the Americas some 13,000 years ago, these colonists were said to have journeyed rapidly overland along an ice-free corridor that stretched from the Yukon to southern Alberta, leaving behind their distinctive stone tools across what is now the contiguous U.S. Archaeologists called these hunters the Clovis people, after a site near Clovis, N.M., where many of their tools came to light.
Over the past decade or so this Clovis First model has come under sharp attack as a result of new discoveries. In southern Chile, at a site known as Monte Verde, archaeologist Thomas D. Dillehay, now at Vanderbilt University, and his colleagues found traces of early Americans who slept in hide-covered tents and dined on seafood and a wild variety of potato 14,600 years ago, long before the appearance of Clovis hunters. Intrigued by the findings, some scientists began looking for similar evidence in North America. They found it: in Paisley Five Mile Point Caves in Oregon, for example, a team uncovered 14,400-year-old human feces flecked with seeds from desert parsley and other plants—not the kinds of comestibles that advocates of the big-game hunters scenario expected to find on the menu. “What we are seeing,” says Dennis L. Jenkins, director of the Paisley Caves dig and an archaeologist at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History in Eugene, Ore., “is a broad-range foraging economy.”
Now, along Buttermilk Creek, Waters and his team have made one of the most important finds yet: a mother lode of stone tools dating back a stunning 15,500 years ago. In all, the team has excavated more than 19,000 pre-Clovis artifacts—from small blades bearing tiny wear marks from cutting bone to a polished chunk of hematite, an iron mineral commonly used in the Paleolithic world for making a red pigment. Publicly unveiled this past spring, the site has yielded more pre-Clovis tools than all other such sites combined, and Waters has spared no expense in dating each layer multiple times. The work has impressed many experts. “It is easily the best evidence for pre-Clovis in North America,” says Vance T. Holliday, an anthropologist and geoscientist at the University of Arizona. The result of this evidence:Whether the migrants cooled their heels in Beringia, however, or somewhere else in northeastern Asia, people eventually began striking off farther east and south. A warming trend began slowly shrinking North America’s ice sheets some 19,000 years ago, gradually creating two passable routes to the south and opening the possibility of multiple early migrations. According to several studies conducted over the past decade on the geographic distribution of genetic diversity in modern indigenous Americans, the earliest of these migrants started colonizing the New World between 18,000 and 15,000 years ago—a date that fits well with emerging archaeological evidence of pre-Clovis colonists. “At some point, these migrants surveyed the landscape and realized for the first time that smoke from all the other campfires was behind them, and ahead there was no smoke.” Adovasio reflects. “And at that moment, they were literally strangers in a strange land.” Comment: These findings have several cultural and political consequences. For starters, they eliminate the right-wing hoopla over Kennewick Man--the claims that white men may have been here first.
Indeed, the findings add almost 50% to the time Indians have lived here as unchallenged masters of the land and its resources. Their ownership of the Americas is that much more unassailable.
Moreover, Paleo-Indians weren't responsible for the megafauna extinction that occurred around the same time as the Clovis cultures. The Paleo-Indians had already been here for several thousand years when the animals began dying off. All the talk of waves of brutal killers exterminating species left and right--didn't happen.
Conservatives have used the megafauna extinction to attack Indians. They weren't proto-environmentalists who revered and protected nature, these critics have claimed. The mass exterminations prove they were thoughtless brutes who killed indiscriminately--savages, basically.
Poor, bigoted conservatives: All their semi-racist insinuations are out the window. Nobody exterminated anything until white Christian Euro-Americans began slaughtering species from the buffalo to the passenger pigeon.
For more on ecological Indians, see Ecosystem Disruption Killed Megafauna? and The "Black Mat" Theory.
(Illustration by Tyler Jacobsen)
The First Americans: Mounting Evidence Prompts Researchers to Reconsider the Peopling of the New World
Humans colonized the New World earlier than previously thought—a revelation that is forcing scientists to rethink long-standing ideas about these trailblazers
By Heather Pringle
Over the past decade or so this Clovis First model has come under sharp attack as a result of new discoveries. In southern Chile, at a site known as Monte Verde, archaeologist Thomas D. Dillehay, now at Vanderbilt University, and his colleagues found traces of early Americans who slept in hide-covered tents and dined on seafood and a wild variety of potato 14,600 years ago, long before the appearance of Clovis hunters. Intrigued by the findings, some scientists began looking for similar evidence in North America. They found it: in Paisley Five Mile Point Caves in Oregon, for example, a team uncovered 14,400-year-old human feces flecked with seeds from desert parsley and other plants—not the kinds of comestibles that advocates of the big-game hunters scenario expected to find on the menu. “What we are seeing,” says Dennis L. Jenkins, director of the Paisley Caves dig and an archaeologist at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History in Eugene, Ore., “is a broad-range foraging economy.”
Now, along Buttermilk Creek, Waters and his team have made one of the most important finds yet: a mother lode of stone tools dating back a stunning 15,500 years ago. In all, the team has excavated more than 19,000 pre-Clovis artifacts—from small blades bearing tiny wear marks from cutting bone to a polished chunk of hematite, an iron mineral commonly used in the Paleolithic world for making a red pigment. Publicly unveiled this past spring, the site has yielded more pre-Clovis tools than all other such sites combined, and Waters has spared no expense in dating each layer multiple times. The work has impressed many experts. “It is easily the best evidence for pre-Clovis in North America,” says Vance T. Holliday, an anthropologist and geoscientist at the University of Arizona.
Indeed, the findings add almost 50% to the time Indians have lived here as unchallenged masters of the land and its resources. Their ownership of the Americas is that much more unassailable.
Moreover, Paleo-Indians weren't responsible for the megafauna extinction that occurred around the same time as the Clovis cultures. The Paleo-Indians had already been here for several thousand years when the animals began dying off. All the talk of waves of brutal killers exterminating species left and right--didn't happen.
Conservatives have used the megafauna extinction to attack Indians. They weren't proto-environmentalists who revered and protected nature, these critics have claimed. The mass exterminations prove they were thoughtless brutes who killed indiscriminately--savages, basically.
Poor, bigoted conservatives: All their semi-racist insinuations are out the window. Nobody exterminated anything until white Christian Euro-Americans began slaughtering species from the buffalo to the passenger pigeon.
For more on ecological Indians, see Ecosystem Disruption Killed Megafauna? and The "Black Mat" Theory.
(Illustration by Tyler Jacobsen)
Urban Outfitters renames "Navajo" products
So-Called Navajo Products Vanish from Urban Outfitters WebsiteBy Friday, the clamor seemed to have peaked, leaving us wondering “What’s Next for the Urban Outfitters Navajo Case?”
Nothing, it seemed. But today, a search on the Urban Outfitters site for “Navajo” returns no results. And:The “Navajo Print Fabric Wrapped Flask” is now the “Printed Fabric Wrapped Flask.” The “Navajo Sock” is now the “Printed Sock.”
Same products, different names. For the Navajo, Sasha Houston Brown, and others who made their feelings known, the simple Printed Hipster Panty might also be called the Righteous Undergarment of Cultural Victory.
The war isn’t over (indeed, Sasha objected to the products themselves, not just their names), but a battle has been won. 
Urban Outfitters pulls ‘Navajo’ name from products on website in wake of criticismUrban Outfitters last week told The Associated Press it had no plans to alter its products. The online name changes were first reported by Indian Country Today.
The Navajo Nation Department of Justice said Wednesday the changes were “positive” and “more consistent with the corporation’s responsibilities than previously demonstrated.”
“If the company has also ceased using the Navajo name in conjunction with its merchandise in its retail stores and print-media advertising, these are encouraging steps by the company towards amicably resolving this matter,” the department said in a release.
The tribe holds at least 10 trademarks on the Navajo name that cover clothing, footwear, online retail sales, household products and textiles, and said it was intent on protecting those trademarks. 
But the war's not over yet:
Urban Outfitters still selling ‘Navajo’ clothing despite criticismCLOTHING CHAIN URBAN Outfitters is still selling ‘Navajo’ branded clothing in Europe, despite coming under fire from the Native American group over its use of their name.
Critics have said the line of Navajo clothing and accessories were disrespectful and offensive–and that Urban Outfitters are profiting inappropriately from the name of the tribe.
A Navajo-branded hip flask has been a particular target for anger, as the reservation has a serious problem with alcoholism. A line of women’s knickers has also been criticised as inappropriate for a Navajo culture which preaches modesty.
Urban Outfitters has removed the Navajo name from its US website, with the items in question now simply marked as “printed”. However, the name is still in use on its UK online store, which also services Ireland. Comment: Despite the UK website, this is an awesome victory. Once again, people power kicks the butt of a corporate giant.
For more on Urban Outfitters, see Jezebel Surveys "Navajo" Fashions and Why Protest Urban Outfitters?
Nothing, it seemed. But today, a search on the Urban Outfitters site for “Navajo” returns no results.
Same products, different names. For the Navajo, Sasha Houston Brown, and others who made their feelings known, the simple Printed Hipster Panty might also be called the Righteous Undergarment of Cultural Victory.
The war isn’t over (indeed, Sasha objected to the products themselves, not just their names), but a battle has been won.
Urban Outfitters pulls ‘Navajo’ name from products on website in wake of criticism
The Navajo Nation Department of Justice said Wednesday the changes were “positive” and “more consistent with the corporation’s responsibilities than previously demonstrated.”
“If the company has also ceased using the Navajo name in conjunction with its merchandise in its retail stores and print-media advertising, these are encouraging steps by the company towards amicably resolving this matter,” the department said in a release.
The tribe holds at least 10 trademarks on the Navajo name that cover clothing, footwear, online retail sales, household products and textiles, and said it was intent on protecting those trademarks.
But the war's not over yet:
Urban Outfitters still selling ‘Navajo’ clothing despite criticism
Critics have said the line of Navajo clothing and accessories were disrespectful and offensive–and that Urban Outfitters are profiting inappropriately from the name of the tribe.
A Navajo-branded hip flask has been a particular target for anger, as the reservation has a serious problem with alcoholism. A line of women’s knickers has also been criticised as inappropriate for a Navajo culture which preaches modesty.
Urban Outfitters has removed the Navajo name from its US website, with the items in question now simply marked as “printed”. However, the name is still in use on its UK online store, which also services Ireland.
For more on Urban Outfitters, see Jezebel Surveys "Navajo" Fashions and Why Protest Urban Outfitters?
October 18, 2011
Manitoba chiefs seek Air Canada boycott
The protests over the incident I covered in Air Canada Memo: Avoid Indians continue:
Manitoba chiefs boycotting Air Canada
Airline memo 'incited hatred' against aboriginals, says chiefManitoba's First Nation leaders are calling for a six-month boycott of Air Canada over the airline's controversial decision to pull its flight crews out of downtown Winnipeg hotels amid safety concerns.
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said Monday that Air Canada has not apologized for an internal bulletin it sent late last month, informing pilots and flight crew personnel they would no longer be staying at the Radisson Hotel on Portage Avenue because of "questionable safety in the area."
The airline's bulletin, which was dated Sept. 23 but leaked this month, notes 1,000 "displaced" people from rural Manitoba are staying in downtown Winnipeg due to "recent environmental issues," but it was not made clear if the note was referring to residents of rural areas that were affected by flooding in the province this past spring.
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said the reference to displaced people is racist because a number of those who were relocated to downtown Winnipeg come from a northern First Nation that was affected by flooding.
"Are we going to support a company that makes racist remarks against my family members, against my friends that are unwarranted, or will I fly with another carrier that's a little more socially responsible than that?" Grand Chief Derek Nepinak told CBC News. Chiefs use no-fly tactic
By Melissa MartinThe Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs will forge ahead with a boycott of Air Canada, sending the airline deeper into hot water over a leaked internal memo.
The AMC, which represents 59 First Nations, will urge all its members and supporters to stay off Air Canada flights until next spring in the wake of the memo, which surfaced earlier this month. The memo pointed a finger at safety concerns linked to "approximately 1,000 displaced people from rural Manitoba" living in downtown hotels as a reason why Air Canada crews would no longer stay at the downtown Radisson Hotel.
Although the memo did not specify it was referring to evacuees from flooded First Nations, most observers agreed there was little doubt which group was being identified. When the memo leaked, AMC Grand Chief Derek Nepinak called it a "display of ignorance" and demanded an apology.
The AMC ordered the six-month boycott at a meeting in Brokenhead last week after agreeing that the airline had failed to respond to its concerns. "The lack of appropriate response requires more direct action to be taken by our First Nations and the public and therefore a call for the boycott is necessary," Nepinak said in a statement Monday.
"Air Canada's irresponsible remarks have created a situation where First Nation people, driven from their homes, are now being held responsible for the crime in downtown Winnipeg. It is time that business leaders realize that they have a responsibility to be good corporate citizens and be mindful of their social obligations." Clear the airThe claims were wrong--the number of "displaced people" from flooding was far fewer than the memo inferred were creating fear and risk to crews and pilots. These people, refugees from rural flooding, are as nervous about being downtown as any other visitor. They are not the root of the problems arising from intoxication and panhandling or crime seen or perceived downtown. When the memo went public, a storm erupted and facts unravelled the airline's case. Air Canada said it was sorry if it caused anyone offence.
It was the classic non-apology. Aboriginal people in Manitoba are suitably disturbed, and demanding better. The assembly requested a meeting, which has not happened. Further, the pilots' association said its members do not fear for their safety in downtown Winnipeg.
It is time for the airline to clear the air, so to speak. It should wholeheartedly, finally, apologize and explain its concerns publicly to a community still perplexed. Comment: For more on the "savage Indian" stereotype, see Murdering Indian in Ringer and Stereotypes Justified "Extreme Measures."
Manitoba chiefs boycotting Air Canada
Airline memo 'incited hatred' against aboriginals, says chief
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said Monday that Air Canada has not apologized for an internal bulletin it sent late last month, informing pilots and flight crew personnel they would no longer be staying at the Radisson Hotel on Portage Avenue because of "questionable safety in the area."
The airline's bulletin, which was dated Sept. 23 but leaked this month, notes 1,000 "displaced" people from rural Manitoba are staying in downtown Winnipeg due to "recent environmental issues," but it was not made clear if the note was referring to residents of rural areas that were affected by flooding in the province this past spring.
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said the reference to displaced people is racist because a number of those who were relocated to downtown Winnipeg come from a northern First Nation that was affected by flooding.
"Are we going to support a company that makes racist remarks against my family members, against my friends that are unwarranted, or will I fly with another carrier that's a little more socially responsible than that?" Grand Chief Derek Nepinak told CBC News.
By Melissa Martin
The AMC, which represents 59 First Nations, will urge all its members and supporters to stay off Air Canada flights until next spring in the wake of the memo, which surfaced earlier this month. The memo pointed a finger at safety concerns linked to "approximately 1,000 displaced people from rural Manitoba" living in downtown hotels as a reason why Air Canada crews would no longer stay at the downtown Radisson Hotel.
Although the memo did not specify it was referring to evacuees from flooded First Nations, most observers agreed there was little doubt which group was being identified. When the memo leaked, AMC Grand Chief Derek Nepinak called it a "display of ignorance" and demanded an apology.
The AMC ordered the six-month boycott at a meeting in Brokenhead last week after agreeing that the airline had failed to respond to its concerns. "The lack of appropriate response requires more direct action to be taken by our First Nations and the public and therefore a call for the boycott is necessary," Nepinak said in a statement Monday.
"Air Canada's irresponsible remarks have created a situation where First Nation people, driven from their homes, are now being held responsible for the crime in downtown Winnipeg. It is time that business leaders realize that they have a responsibility to be good corporate citizens and be mindful of their social obligations."
It was the classic non-apology. Aboriginal people in Manitoba are suitably disturbed, and demanding better. The assembly requested a meeting, which has not happened. Further, the pilots' association said its members do not fear for their safety in downtown Winnipeg.
It is time for the airline to clear the air, so to speak. It should wholeheartedly, finally, apologize and explain its concerns publicly to a community still perplexed.
Occupy Albuquerque renamed
Occupy movement in New Mexico finds new name out of respect for Native Americans
By Nicolas MendozaIn response to concerns over the term “Occupy Albuquerque”, the protest movement has renamed itself “(Un)occupy Albuquerque.” The decision was made in a general assembly meeting of protesters at the University of New Mexico campus.
As the New Mexico Independent reported last week, some of the ’99 percenters’ objected to the association of the word ‘Occupy’ with what one Daily Kos contributor called “…five-hundred years of forced occupation of [Native American] lands, resources, cultures, power, and voices by the imperial powers of both Spain and the United States. A big chunk of the 99 percent has been served pretty well by that arrangement. A smaller chunk hasn’t.”
The ‘Occupy’ movement has emphasized its opposition to those in the top 1 percent of the country’s income distribution, as well as the financial sector, which in recent decades has drastically increased its share of the total national income.
But this emphasis has meant that many other societal tensions and grievances that have traditionally preoccupied left-wing and anti-establishment movements, such as those of the Native American community and other racial minorities, have not been a significant focus of the ’99 percenters.’ Comment: I anticipated this result when I posted Indians Say "Unoccupy America."
Occupy Wall Street's theme goes something like this: "We the people, the 99% of Americans who aren't super-rich, are occupying Wall Street, home of the other 1%. We want the 1% to give up the reins of power--to unoccupy Wall Street and leave, metaphorically speaking."
"Unoccupy" also works for a Native-oriented protest. Unoccupy America doesn't literally mean "pack your bags and go back where you came from, rich white Americans." It means unoccupy the statehouses and boardrooms where you control all the power. Let the 99% rule--you know, the way a democracy is supposed to work.
Therefore, "Unoccupy" might be a clearer message than "Decolonize" for Indians. "We were here first, so stop occupying our space and telling us what to do. We demand the right to control our own destinies."
For more on the subject, see Critiquing the "Decolonize" Posters and Occupiers Aren't Decolonizers.
Below: Albuquerque.
By Nicolas Mendoza
As the New Mexico Independent reported last week, some of the ’99 percenters’ objected to the association of the word ‘Occupy’ with what one Daily Kos contributor called “…five-hundred years of forced occupation of [Native American] lands, resources, cultures, power, and voices by the imperial powers of both Spain and the United States. A big chunk of the 99 percent has been served pretty well by that arrangement. A smaller chunk hasn’t.”
The ‘Occupy’ movement has emphasized its opposition to those in the top 1 percent of the country’s income distribution, as well as the financial sector, which in recent decades has drastically increased its share of the total national income.
But this emphasis has meant that many other societal tensions and grievances that have traditionally preoccupied left-wing and anti-establishment movements, such as those of the Native American community and other racial minorities, have not been a significant focus of the ’99 percenters.’
Occupy Wall Street's theme goes something like this: "We the people, the 99% of Americans who aren't super-rich, are occupying Wall Street, home of the other 1%. We want the 1% to give up the reins of power--to unoccupy Wall Street and leave, metaphorically speaking."
"Unoccupy" also works for a Native-oriented protest. Unoccupy America doesn't literally mean "pack your bags and go back where you came from, rich white Americans." It means unoccupy the statehouses and boardrooms where you control all the power. Let the 99% rule--you know, the way a democracy is supposed to work.
Therefore, "Unoccupy" might be a clearer message than "Decolonize" for Indians. "We were here first, so stop occupying our space and telling us what to do. We demand the right to control our own destinies."
For more on the subject, see Critiquing the "Decolonize" Posters and Occupiers Aren't Decolonizers.
Below: Albuquerque.
Colonial imagery in Canadian newspapers
Aboriginals under attack: book
Says negative images prevalent in papers
By Alexandra PaulTwo University of Regina authors say colonialism and racism are dominant threads that weave through the fabric of Canada's English-language newspapers, colouring coverage of aboriginal stories from the Northwest Rebellion to the Oka crisis.
The result is prevalence of negative stereotypes that haunt race relations with aboriginal people to this day, they say.
History professor Mark Cronlund Anderson and art history associate professor Carmen Robertson surveyed 42 local, regional and national daily newspapers from 1869 to the present.
They looked at how aboriginal people were portrayed in historic events like the rebellion, which led to the 1885 hanging of Manitoba Métis leader Louis Riel, the 1974 Bended Elbow standoff in Kenora and the 1990 Oka crisis, as well as in editorials, columns and letters to the editor for the past 140 years.
The result is the book, Seeing Red: A History of Natives in Canadian Newspapers, to be launched today in Regina by its publisher, the University of Manitoba.
The findings could surprise Canadians who believe racism and colonialism are visages of a bygone era, the authors write.
"An examination of press content in Canada since the sale of Rupert's Land in 1869 through to 2009 illustrates with respect to aboriginal people that colonial imagery has thrived, even dominated, and continues to do so in mainstream English-language newspaper," the authors write. Comment: For more on journalistic bias, see Media Ignores Victimized Native Women and Racial Blindness in South Dakota's Media.
Says negative images prevalent in papers
By Alexandra Paul
The result is prevalence of negative stereotypes that haunt race relations with aboriginal people to this day, they say.
History professor Mark Cronlund Anderson and art history associate professor Carmen Robertson surveyed 42 local, regional and national daily newspapers from 1869 to the present.
They looked at how aboriginal people were portrayed in historic events like the rebellion, which led to the 1885 hanging of Manitoba Métis leader Louis Riel, the 1974 Bended Elbow standoff in Kenora and the 1990 Oka crisis, as well as in editorials, columns and letters to the editor for the past 140 years.
The result is the book, Seeing Red: A History of Natives in Canadian Newspapers, to be launched today in Regina by its publisher, the University of Manitoba.
The findings could surprise Canadians who believe racism and colonialism are visages of a bygone era, the authors write.
"An examination of press content in Canada since the sale of Rupert's Land in 1869 through to 2009 illustrates with respect to aboriginal people that colonial imagery has thrived, even dominated, and continues to do so in mainstream English-language newspaper," the authors write.
Killing Geronimo graphic novel
Bluewater turns THE HUNT FOR OSAMA BIN LADEN into graphic novelPublishing giant Simon & Schuster has tabbed independent comic book publisher Bluewater Productions to produce a graphic novel version of the events surrounding the hunt and killing of Osama bin Laden.
"Killing Geronimo: The Hunt for Osama bin Laden," takes its title from the code name given the notorious Al-Qaeda leader during the secret action named Operation Neptune Spear carried out on May 2, 2011. The 96-page original graphic novel documenting the mission is scheduled for spring 2012 release.
"This is an epic story nearly ten years in the making," said co-author and journalist Jerome Maida, "It's like a true-to-life Jason Bourne novel. And like those Ludlum books, it's a complex labyrinth of intrigue, danger and politics culminating in an action-packed ending."
Bluewater, who has a successful track record of developing non-fiction comic books and graphic novels, is basing its account on the publicly released details surrounding the mission and the historical lead up to its successful resolution. Comment: Oops. Apparently Bluewater didn't get the military/media memo that claims we didn't label Osama bin Laden "Geronimo." Apparently they're going with the facts--you know, like the quotes calling him "Geronimo." How dare they!
This book shows exactly what's wrong with the military's choice of codename. Would anyone authorize an operation to kill "George Washington"? Or publish a book with the title "Killing George Washington"? Probably not.
But "Killing Geronimo" seems perfectly acceptable to most Americans. He was just a "dirty redskin," not a human being, right? Killing him was like killing a mangy dog, a skunk, or some other varmint.
For more on the subject, see Afterword in Code Name: Geronimo and Code Name: Geronimo Graphic Novel.
"Killing Geronimo: The Hunt for Osama bin Laden," takes its title from the code name given the notorious Al-Qaeda leader during the secret action named Operation Neptune Spear carried out on May 2, 2011. The 96-page original graphic novel documenting the mission is scheduled for spring 2012 release.
"This is an epic story nearly ten years in the making," said co-author and journalist Jerome Maida, "It's like a true-to-life Jason Bourne novel. And like those Ludlum books, it's a complex labyrinth of intrigue, danger and politics culminating in an action-packed ending."
Bluewater, who has a successful track record of developing non-fiction comic books and graphic novels, is basing its account on the publicly released details surrounding the mission and the historical lead up to its successful resolution.
This book shows exactly what's wrong with the military's choice of codename. Would anyone authorize an operation to kill "George Washington"? Or publish a book with the title "Killing George Washington"? Probably not.
But "Killing Geronimo" seems perfectly acceptable to most Americans. He was just a "dirty redskin," not a human being, right? Killing him was like killing a mangy dog, a skunk, or some other varmint.
For more on the subject, see Afterword in Code Name: Geronimo and Code Name: Geronimo Graphic Novel.
October 17, 2011
Indians slam Children of the Plains
Lakotas to Diane Sawyer: Let Lakotas tell their story
By Brenda NorrellReaders of Censored News said Lakotas must tell their own stories, rather than allowing a corporation to spoon-feed a contrived program of sugar-coated sympathy that refuses to document US colonization.
Debra White Plume, Lakota from Pine Ridge, S.D., points out that this type of television program leaves out the issue of colonization, and is based on the perspective of the corporation.
White Plume said, "Remember when Tom Brokaw did a show like Diane Sawyer is doing. His was called 'Tragedy at Pine Ridge,' about 20 years ago. Brokaw's showed a lot of drunkenness and White Clay, cops busting folks intoxicated, etc. These video journalists rarely interview anyone who speaks of colonization, and how the drinking and drugging is colonized behavior, and that booze and drugs are white man's poisons. Hmm, these journalists show what the corporation they work for wants them to show."
John M. Kane, Mohawk, said the real story is about the theft by the US government and will not win Sawyer an Emmy.
Kane said, "The show was all about evoking sympathy for these poor 'Americans' that 'time' forgot and casting Sawyer as a compassionate hero for telling this 'compelling' story. Time didn't do this to the Lakota, Americans did. They trespassed on our lands until their government 'legalized' the theft. They cheated us on mineral rights, water rights, grazing rights and general land use. $40 billion worth of Native assets have been lost by the BIA. No financing available for businesses unless it is for 'Americans' to set up beer stores just off the rez line. The real story won't win Sawyer an Emmy. The real story would evoke anger, not sympathy and disgust." Reactions on Facebook
Some reactions to Norrell's article on Facebook. First, from a woman named Kathryn:Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for this, Brenda. The 20/20 show was appalling and exploitative. Sawyer was ghoulish and patronizing. My friends and I watched this and were sickened by Sawyer's inappropriate tone and focus, and aghast that so many people online were praising it.
There were blatant falsehoods in the piece, and promotion of corporate interests. Perhaps the most dangerous part of the piece that some of us saw was the suggestion that Native children should be taken out of their communities--potentially laying the groundwork for attacks on the Indian Child Welfare Act.
If Diane Sawyer really wants to "help" the "Children of the Plains," maybe she should listen to their Elders. Maybe she should take some of the money they spent on this and give it to a Native filmmaker, and use her media and showbiz contacts to help promote media that is controlled by Native people. Two others:This article is a great response to her and others' skewed reporting, seemingly more for ratings than "delving" into the facts of the real history and cultural anthropology of the Native peoples. Though, I do strongly believe that WE all need to know the present situation and conditions of rez, much more needs to be told about exactly, why, why why? Shame on propagating the myth and soliciting tears, in lieu, of truth.
Sawyer's condescending laugh and self conscious backtracking when the young man said his ambition was to be President of the US pretty much set the tone for the whole piece. Same ol', same ol'. What the show didn't show
Many people trying to make it right at Pine Ridge
By Tim Giago (Nanwica Kciji)The show was well done and as always, Sawyer was down-to-earth in her presentation. It showed her visiting a school with many structural problems, and the home of one family that housed many more inhabitants than the house was built to support. The obligatory shots of drunks lying on the streets of White Clay, Nebraska were highlighted.
The show could have included some of the schools of the Shannon County School District at Wolf Creek, Rockyford or the brand new school at Batesland. It could have visited Little Wound School at Kyle or Crazy Horse School at Wanbli, or it could have visited the campus of Oglala Lakota College and talked to Tom Shortbull and of the many things he is achieving and is hoping to achieve with this great college.
Sawyer kept referring to the Red Cloud Indian School and the fact that it was a very good private school that only takes about 600 students and she mentioned that students from around the reservation wanted to enroll there. Red Cloud, which began its existence as Holy Rosary Indian Mission, a school run by the Franciscan Nuns and Jesuit priests, had its own history of child abuse and like Ms. Sawyer, no one is happier to see the dramatic changes at that school than its former students, myself included.
There are programs now in place on the reservation to combat and cure alcoholism and drug abuse. The commodities food program was slammed by Mark Tilsen, a co-manager of Tatanka Bars in Kyle. I am sure that Joe Blue Horse, Jr., the man who has been running the program for many years would object to Tilsen’s comments. The commodity program has done a complete turnaround over the years when most of the commodities were starch filled, and Blue Horse has made an extreme effort to get the U. S. Department of Agriculture, the overseers of the program, to stock much more healthy foods even to the point of bringing in fresh vegetables and fruit.
For every point made by Sawyer there is a counter-point. The problem is that all of the major television affiliates never look at the counter-points. Comment: For more on the subject, see Reactions to Children of the Plains and Children of the Plains on 20/20.
By Brenda Norrell
Debra White Plume, Lakota from Pine Ridge, S.D., points out that this type of television program leaves out the issue of colonization, and is based on the perspective of the corporation.
White Plume said, "Remember when Tom Brokaw did a show like Diane Sawyer is doing. His was called 'Tragedy at Pine Ridge,' about 20 years ago. Brokaw's showed a lot of drunkenness and White Clay, cops busting folks intoxicated, etc. These video journalists rarely interview anyone who speaks of colonization, and how the drinking and drugging is colonized behavior, and that booze and drugs are white man's poisons. Hmm, these journalists show what the corporation they work for wants them to show."
John M. Kane, Mohawk, said the real story is about the theft by the US government and will not win Sawyer an Emmy.
Kane said, "The show was all about evoking sympathy for these poor 'Americans' that 'time' forgot and casting Sawyer as a compassionate hero for telling this 'compelling' story. Time didn't do this to the Lakota, Americans did. They trespassed on our lands until their government 'legalized' the theft. They cheated us on mineral rights, water rights, grazing rights and general land use. $40 billion worth of Native assets have been lost by the BIA. No financing available for businesses unless it is for 'Americans' to set up beer stores just off the rez line. The real story won't win Sawyer an Emmy. The real story would evoke anger, not sympathy and disgust."
Some reactions to Norrell's article on Facebook. First, from a woman named Kathryn:
There were blatant falsehoods in the piece, and promotion of corporate interests. Perhaps the most dangerous part of the piece that some of us saw was the suggestion that Native children should be taken out of their communities--potentially laying the groundwork for attacks on the Indian Child Welfare Act.
If Diane Sawyer really wants to "help" the "Children of the Plains," maybe she should listen to their Elders. Maybe she should take some of the money they spent on this and give it to a Native filmmaker, and use her media and showbiz contacts to help promote media that is controlled by Native people.
Sawyer's condescending laugh and self conscious backtracking when the young man said his ambition was to be President of the US pretty much set the tone for the whole piece. Same ol', same ol'.
Many people trying to make it right at Pine Ridge
By Tim Giago (Nanwica Kciji)
The show could have included some of the schools of the Shannon County School District at Wolf Creek, Rockyford or the brand new school at Batesland. It could have visited Little Wound School at Kyle or Crazy Horse School at Wanbli, or it could have visited the campus of Oglala Lakota College and talked to Tom Shortbull and of the many things he is achieving and is hoping to achieve with this great college.
Sawyer kept referring to the Red Cloud Indian School and the fact that it was a very good private school that only takes about 600 students and she mentioned that students from around the reservation wanted to enroll there. Red Cloud, which began its existence as Holy Rosary Indian Mission, a school run by the Franciscan Nuns and Jesuit priests, had its own history of child abuse and like Ms. Sawyer, no one is happier to see the dramatic changes at that school than its former students, myself included.
There are programs now in place on the reservation to combat and cure alcoholism and drug abuse. The commodities food program was slammed by Mark Tilsen, a co-manager of Tatanka Bars in Kyle. I am sure that Joe Blue Horse, Jr., the man who has been running the program for many years would object to Tilsen’s comments. The commodity program has done a complete turnaround over the years when most of the commodities were starch filled, and Blue Horse has made an extreme effort to get the U. S. Department of Agriculture, the overseers of the program, to stock much more healthy foods even to the point of bringing in fresh vegetables and fruit.
For every point made by Sawyer there is a counter-point. The problem is that all of the major television affiliates never look at the counter-points.
Elouise Cobell dies
Elouise Cobell, 65, Walks On
By Rob CapricciosoThe Indian woman who fought the U.S. government—and won—has lost her battle with cancer. Blackfeet Nation tribal citizen Elouise Cobell passed away Sunday evening at age 65 in Great Falls, Montana. Diagnosed with cancer last year, Cobell reportedly had surgery in April at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., for what she described then as “a serious cancer.” The type of cancer has not been released.
Born one of eight children on the Blackfeet Reservation on Nov. 5, 1945, Cobell was a great granddaughter of Mountain Chief, a historical Indian leader of the West, and was given the Indian name “Yellow Bird Woman.” She became well-known throughout the United States after she filed a historic lawsuit in 1996 with four other Native Americans, alleging that the federal government had mismanaged the trust funds of more than 500,000 American Indians. After a long court battle, Cobell and her lawyers agreed to a $3.4 billion settlement in December 2009 that Congress ratified in December of 2010. President Barack Obama then signed the agreement into law, and U.S. Senior District Judge Thomas F. Hogan granted final approval this June. Final financial awards are pending appeal due to some controversial aspects of the settlement. As the appeals process continues, U.S. Department of the Interior officials have been holding consultation sessions with tribal leaders and citizens on aspects of the agreement.
When Obama met with Cobell in the Oval Office last December, he lauded her hard work, and upon her death, issued the following statement: “Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Elouise Cobell yesterday. Elouise spoke out when she saw that the Interior Department had failed to account for billions of dollars that they were supposed to collect on behalf of more than 300,000 of her fellow Native Americans. Because she did, I was able to sign into law a piece of legislation that finally provided a measure of justice to those who were affected. That law also creates a scholarship fund to give more Native Americans access to higher education, and give tribes more control over their own lands. Elouise helped to strengthen the government to government relationship with Indian Country, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family, and all those who mourn her passing.”
Despite the controversies related to that settlement, Cobell was well-respected in Indian country because of her willingness to take on a battle so huge. Many times throughout her case, the federal government placed formidable roadblocks in her way, but she pressed on. Her lead lawyer, Dennis Gingold, called her a “warrior woman” soon after the settlement was announced. Elouise Cobell, lead plaintiff in Indian trust fund lawsuit, dies at 65In part, Ms. Cobell used funds from her own 1997 "Genius Grant” from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation's Fellows program to fund the cost of the lawsuit.
In 2005, she received a Cultural Freedom Fellowship from the Lannan Foundation, an award that cited her persistence in bringing to light the “more than a century of government malfeasance and dishonesty” with the government-run Indian Trust.
Two years later, she was one of 10 people given an AARP Impact Award (for making the world a better place), and in 2004 the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development presented her with the Jay Silverheels Achievement Award. This year, she was named "Montana Citizen of the Year" by the Montana Trial Lawyers Association.
She received the 2002 International Women’s Forum award for “Women Who Make a Difference,” in Mexico City. Comment: For more on Cobell, see Cobell to Get Honorary Degree and Cobell Settlement Is No Victory.
By Rob Capriccioso
Born one of eight children on the Blackfeet Reservation on Nov. 5, 1945, Cobell was a great granddaughter of Mountain Chief, a historical Indian leader of the West, and was given the Indian name “Yellow Bird Woman.” She became well-known throughout the United States after she filed a historic lawsuit in 1996 with four other Native Americans, alleging that the federal government had mismanaged the trust funds of more than 500,000 American Indians. After a long court battle, Cobell and her lawyers agreed to a $3.4 billion settlement in December 2009 that Congress ratified in December of 2010. President Barack Obama then signed the agreement into law, and U.S. Senior District Judge Thomas F. Hogan granted final approval this June. Final financial awards are pending appeal due to some controversial aspects of the settlement. As the appeals process continues, U.S. Department of the Interior officials have been holding consultation sessions with tribal leaders and citizens on aspects of the agreement.
When Obama met with Cobell in the Oval Office last December, he lauded her hard work, and upon her death, issued the following statement: “Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Elouise Cobell yesterday. Elouise spoke out when she saw that the Interior Department had failed to account for billions of dollars that they were supposed to collect on behalf of more than 300,000 of her fellow Native Americans. Because she did, I was able to sign into law a piece of legislation that finally provided a measure of justice to those who were affected. That law also creates a scholarship fund to give more Native Americans access to higher education, and give tribes more control over their own lands. Elouise helped to strengthen the government to government relationship with Indian Country, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family, and all those who mourn her passing.”
Despite the controversies related to that settlement, Cobell was well-respected in Indian country because of her willingness to take on a battle so huge. Many times throughout her case, the federal government placed formidable roadblocks in her way, but she pressed on. Her lead lawyer, Dennis Gingold, called her a “warrior woman” soon after the settlement was announced.
In 2005, she received a Cultural Freedom Fellowship from the Lannan Foundation, an award that cited her persistence in bringing to light the “more than a century of government malfeasance and dishonesty” with the government-run Indian Trust.
Two years later, she was one of 10 people given an AARP Impact Award (for making the world a better place), and in 2004 the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development presented her with the Jay Silverheels Achievement Award. This year, she was named "Montana Citizen of the Year" by the Montana Trial Lawyers Association.
She received the 2002 International Women’s Forum award for “Women Who Make a Difference,” in Mexico City.
Medal case goes to Supreme Court
Long-time readers will recall my postings titled Hipster Medals Instead of Headdresses and Cooke Defends Medals, Headdresses. In them, I compared wearing Indian headdresses--revered by Indians as a special honor--to wearing military medals--revered by Americans as a special honor. Most Americans wouldn't think of wearing medals, pretending to be soldiers, and mocking our military. Yet they have no compunction about doing the same thing with Indian headdresses.
Now here's a posting that shows exactly how serious Americans consider the falsifying of our military honors. Serious enough to take the case all the way to the Supreme Court--that's how serious.
High court to rule on lying about military medalsThe Supreme Court will decide if telling a lie about yourself is a crime--if the lie claims military medals you didn't earn.
The court said Monday it will rule on the constitutionality of a law that makes it a federal crime for people to claim falsely, either in writing or aloud, that they have been awarded the Medal of Honor, a Silver Star, Purple Heart or any other military medal.
The Stolen Valor Act, which passed Congress with overwhelming support in 2006, apparently has been used only a few dozen times, but the underlying issue of false claims of military heroism has struck a chord in an era in which American soldiers are fighting two wars.
At the same time, the justices have issued a series of rulings in recent terms in favor of free expression, striking down California's violent video restrictions and a federal law involving cruelty to animals. It also upheld the right of protesters to picket military funerals with provocative, even offensive, messages.
The federal appeals court in California struck down the military medals law on free speech grounds, and appeals courts in Colorado, Georgia and Missouri are considering similar cases.
The Obama administration is arguing that the law "serves a crucial purpose in safeguarding the military honors system." The administration also says the law is reasonable because it only applies to instances in which the speaker intends to portray himself as a medal recipient. Previous high court rulings also have limited First Amendment protection for false statements, the government said. Comment: Even if the Supreme Court favors the free-speech argument, and you do too, I trust you see the point. People may have the "right" to pretend to be decorated soldiers, but nobody considers it harmless or good. It's a moral offense even if it isn't a legal offense.
The same applies to wearing Indian headdresses. The two cases continue to be exceedingly analogous.
For more on hipster headdresses, see Tribalism Is Trendy and Rap Video on Hipster Headdresses.
Now here's a posting that shows exactly how serious Americans consider the falsifying of our military honors. Serious enough to take the case all the way to the Supreme Court--that's how serious.
High court to rule on lying about military medals
The court said Monday it will rule on the constitutionality of a law that makes it a federal crime for people to claim falsely, either in writing or aloud, that they have been awarded the Medal of Honor, a Silver Star, Purple Heart or any other military medal.
The Stolen Valor Act, which passed Congress with overwhelming support in 2006, apparently has been used only a few dozen times, but the underlying issue of false claims of military heroism has struck a chord in an era in which American soldiers are fighting two wars.
At the same time, the justices have issued a series of rulings in recent terms in favor of free expression, striking down California's violent video restrictions and a federal law involving cruelty to animals. It also upheld the right of protesters to picket military funerals with provocative, even offensive, messages.
The federal appeals court in California struck down the military medals law on free speech grounds, and appeals courts in Colorado, Georgia and Missouri are considering similar cases.
The Obama administration is arguing that the law "serves a crucial purpose in safeguarding the military honors system." The administration also says the law is reasonable because it only applies to instances in which the speaker intends to portray himself as a medal recipient. Previous high court rulings also have limited First Amendment protection for false statements, the government said.
The same applies to wearing Indian headdresses. The two cases continue to be exceedingly analogous.
For more on hipster headdresses, see Tribalism Is Trendy and Rap Video on Hipster Headdresses.
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